Located in the historic Lower walled gardens, this striking sculpture designed by international artist Anne Duk Hee Jordan explores themes such as biodiversity and climate change.
The sculpture collects and harvests rainwater, channelling it down a curtain of rain chains into a newly created wildlife pond. The pond is surrounded by natural stumpery, flowers, ferns, aquatic plant life, and sculpted bug hotels, to offer new habitats for insects and amphibians.
At the top of the sculpture sits Popo, a small creature of the artist’s imagination that refers to Feng-po-po, the goddess of wind in Chinese folklore. According to myth, her moods can conjure strong winds and control rainfall, and she serves to protect water and the environment. The multiple snake tongues reference the Greek myth of Medusa who, often misunderstood as a monster, also represents a powerful protector over women and the sea.
The funding for Snail on Me was generously provided by Arts Council England, Art Fund, Vallum Associates and Wigan Council. The steel work was created and installed by Fish Fabrications and the new pond and landscaping was carried out by Horticon.
Please note: Access to Snail on Me will be closed until April 2026. We will be restoring the pond level, and new plants will be integrated within and around the pond to create a natural habitat for insects and amphibians.
We look forward to welcoming you back once the work is complete.