David Shrigley, The Mantis Muse

Artists

David Shrigley

Press release

Dear school classes of Copenhagen,

Galleri Nicolai Wallner and world-renowned artist David Shrigley invite you to participate in the upcoming exhibition, The Mantis Muse.

The Mantis Muse is a giant praying mantis sculpture by David Shrigley, made from fibreglass and steel with an animatronic head, standing at 3 meters tall. It was created in 2024 to emphasize the importance of art in education and advocate for increased funding for arts programs in British schools, a passion for the artist. It was originally installed for two weeks at David Shrigley’s former school where students were invited to take part in a series of lessons inspired by The Mantis Muse, with a particular focus on using the sculpture as a starting point for life drawing.

During the project, students produced over 1,000 individual artworks, demonstrating a remarkable level of engagement and creative response. The project also received national media attention, sparking wider conversations about how children learn through creativity and the impact of providing meaningful artistic opportunities.

While The Mantis Muse is presented at Galleri Nicolai Wallner, the gallery is inviting local schools to attend a free life drawing session before the exhibition opens to the public.

All materials will be provided, and students’ artworks will be displayed in the gallery alongside the sculpture throughout the exhibition. Teachers and students will also be invited to the private view, giving them an exclusive first look at the show. This project aims to inspire young people outside of the everyday classroom setting, and offer them the opportunity to present their creativity to a wider audience.

Participation will run from March 19 – 26, 2026.
Capacity is limited –If you, your class, or your child’s class would like to participate, get in touch asap to save your place!
Children of all ages are welcome.