MIF25: An Inheritance at Manchester Art Gallery

What will the world look like in 2125? An Inheritance sees young people from Manchester prepare a very special gift for the future, passed down from one generation to another, displayed at Manchester Art Gallery.

With changes in the climate and the speed of technological development, there’s really no way to know what life will be like in 100 years and thinking about it might make the most level-headed of us a little dizzy. An Inheritance is a hopeful look at the future, one that focuses on things that are important to children today, and in many ways, always have been: from advice on how to make friends and favourite jokes to a jar of honey in case bees become a rare sight. The things gathered as part of An Inheritance have a somewhat timeless quality – while the objects may age, the sentiment will remain as fresh as it is today.

Over 500 school children from across every borough of Greater Manchester worked with artists Andy Field, Beckie Darlington and Rosabel Tan, who encouraged them to think about the city of Manchester 100 years from now and what they can leave behind for future young people. The vast collection was then gathered and is on display at Manchester Art Gallery this year and, most importantly, will happen again in 2125.

Visitors can contribute their own wisdom to The Inheritance before it is locked away for a whole century when the exhibition comes to a close. To honour the significance of the project a special ceremony will see representatives from the city sign an oath, written by the children, swearing to safeguard the collection until it is ready to be shown again.

An Inheritance is a quietly remarkable project in MIF25’s schedule, giving a voice to the youngest members of our society. It’s both a glimpse at what’s most important to today’s children and a chance to really consider how future generations can benefit from what we leave behind.