The Polar Bears of Perth Film

The Polar Bears of Perth forms part of the Open University’s Art and Ecology project, founded by Dr Carla Benzan and Dr Samuel Shaw. The film uses objects from the collections of Culture Perth & Kinross and the Royal Scottish Geographical Society to explore debates surrounding the representation and circulation of polar bears in early-twentieth-century Scotland.

Art and Ecology aims to change public understanding of today's ecological crisis through the art and visual cultures of the past. The project reconnects art and science, moving towards curiosity and active engagement as part of a more meaningful and sustainable solution. The film was directed by Libby Penman and filmed by Libby Penman and Mickey Sneedon at the Perth Museum & Art Gallery and the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. It was released in 2024.

Art and Ecology videos are open access. Please contact Samuel Shaw or Carla Benzan if you would like to provide feedback on the resource, or seek guidance as to how to use the video in an educational setting.