Uploaded March 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
The manchineel apple is one of the most toxic fruit in the world, burning the skin when touched. It was used by enslaved people to poison plantation owners as an act of resistance. Contemporary artist Charmaine Watkiss honours the intergenerational transmission of herbal knowledge that migrated with people who were enslaved and their descendants. In this work, she highlights plants used for self-protection, resistance and healing. Curator Cindy Sissokho tells us more.
Our free exhibition ‘Hard Graft: Work, Health and Rights’ is open until 27 April.
#slavery #art #history
Credit: The Matriarch I2021, Graphite, colour pencil, watercolour, gum,ink and Reckitt’s Blue on paperLeeds Museums and Galleries Purchased with Art Fundand Leeds Art Fund support LEEAG.2022.0067
See us on Instagram: instagram.com/wellcomecollection
The manchineel apple is one of the most toxic fruit in the world, burning the skin when touched. It was used by enslaved people to poison plantation owners as an act of resistance. Contemporary artist Charmaine Watkiss honours the intergenerational transmission of herbal knowledge that migrated with people who were enslaved and their descendants. In this work, she highlights plants used for self-protection, resistance and healing. Curator Cindy Sissokho tells us more.
Our free exhibition ‘Hard Graft: Work, Health and Rights’ is open until 27 April.
#slavery #art #history
Credit: The Matriarch I2021, Graphite, colour pencil, watercolour, gum,ink and Reckitt’s Blue on paperLeeds Museums and Galleries Purchased with Art Fundand Leeds Art Fund support LEEAG.2022.0067
See us on Instagram: instagram.com/wellcomecollection
