About Wild Wings of Hope

Explore the extraordinary journeys of migratory birds and insects with storytelling and craft. This three-day event celebrates the biodiversity and cultural heritage of Scotland and Africa.

Explore the programme

Storytelling sessions

Times: 11:00, 11:45, 12:30, 13:45, 14:30, 15:15

Duration: 15 minutes

Location: Living Lands, Level 1

Sign up on the day at the Wild Wings of Hope welcome desk in the Grand Gallery. Let your imagination take flight with the stories of African master folklorist Chief Gift Amu and Scottish storyteller Cara Silversmith. Inspired by traditional African folklore and Scottish tales, embark on a journey over land and sea that honours our shared ecology and cultural history.

Papercut craft

Time: 10:30 - 16:00

Location: Grand Gallery, Level 1

Join local wildlife artist Ed Harrison to craft intricate papercuts of some of our most beloved migratory species that embark on incredible journeys between Scotland and Africa each year and serve as a powerful reminder that nature knows no borders. Take your artwork home or become part of the flock and add it to one of our Wild Wings of Hope mobiles that will go on display in our Learning Centre.

Conservation station

Time: 10:30 - 16:00

Location: Grand Gallery, Level 1

We will also be joined by conservation partner RSPB who will offer practical advice on caring for our local habitats and restoring biodiversity. Swoop past their stalls to discover some of the ways you can get involved.

Meet our experts

Time: 10:30 - 16:00

Location: Grand Gallery, Level 1

Learn about National Museums Scotland’s insect collection with our Entomology experts. Discover fascinating facts about some of the smallest inhabitants of our planet and their vital role in supporting all life on planet earth.

On the wing (object handling)

Time: 10:30 - 16:00

Location: Grand Gallery, Level 1

Join our Learning Team to discover more about the incredible journeys of migratory birds and the historic figures who helped shape our understanding of the natural world.

Biographies

Ed Harrison

Chief Gift Amu

Cara Silversmith

Ed Harrison

Ed Harrison is a designer, illustrator, and papercut artist. His intricate work connects people to the natural world through craft, conservation, and immersive experiences.

Chief Gift Amu

Chief Gift Amu is a Ghanaian-born folklorist and performing artist based in Glasgow. He shares African stories through music and drumming to inspire connection, tradition and cultural understanding.

Cara Silversmith

Cara Silversmith is a storyteller and environmental educator. Her work explores identity, wellbeing, and our deep connection to Scotland’s ecology.