Wolverhampton Art Gallery will present Palingenesis, the first institutional solo exhibition by Wolverhampton-based artist and writer Rachel Magdeburg, from 10 October 2026 - 21 February 2027. Bringing together paintings, sculptural paint casts and moving image works, the exhibition explores transformation and connections between organisms, manufactured objects and painterly gestures.

Palingenesis, meaning rebirth or regeneration, presents a new body of work developed through observation, experimentation and association. Inspired by everyday encounters with the natural world, the exhibition traces unexpected connections between these forms through the process of painting.

A worm found in a packed lunch became an unlikely starting point for the exhibition. Drawn to its form and movement, Magdeburg began following a chain of playful visual connections, akin to the imaginary associations made by children at play. Within the paintings, worms can resemble fingers and rat tails whilst rat fur recalls paintbrush hairs. Throughout the exhibition, these forms evolve and reappear in unexpected ways. Some remain recognisable, while others become gestural marks, abstractions and 3D forms in paint.

The exhibition reflects Magdeburg’s long-standing interest in ecology and the Anthropocene, the idea that human activity has become a major force shaping the natural world. Plastic packaging, mobile phones and synthetic materials appear alongside worms, fossils and other non-human organisms, encouraging audiences to consider how the objects we create, and discard, today could become what the artist describes as the “technofossils” of the future.

Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, said: “We’re delighted that Wolverhampton Art Gallery has been chosen to present Rachel Madgeburg’s first major solo exhibition.

“Supporting artists and showcasing local talent is an important part of the gallery’s programme, and Palingenesis promises to be a thought provoking and must-see exhibition.”

Wolverhampton Art Gallery is free to visit Monday to Saturday from 10.30am to 4.30pm and Sunday from 11am to 4pm. For more information, please visit www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk.