Zoos expose a paradox: we confine animals behind fences, moats and bars, recreate an artificial version of nature (think colourful murals and plastic rocks), give the animals names, and then become utterly fascinated by them when they manage to escape. Take Neukgu, a wolf in South Korea who captured global attention in the spring of 2026 after outsmarting 300 police officers, firefighters and military personnel and spending nine days roaming free. Or Ken Allen, the orangutan who repeatedly escaped from San Diego Zoo and acquired his own fan club and merchandise (bumper stickers!). And did I mention Bokito?

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The Great Escape explores the romance, tragedy and absurdity of animal escapes – and the efforts to prevent them. It's a work in progress and I'll be sharing some of my (research) images along the way. Please note that I'm never around when the actual escapes take place ;-). 

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