COP17, aka the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, scheduled for Durban in November and December, is occupying the thoughts of many South Africans - including our artists and curators, judging by two exhibitions hosted by the Michaelis Galleries and Gordon Institute for Performing and Creative Arts (GIPCA) at the Michaelis Galleries from 24 September to 19 October.

Michaelis senior lecturer Virginia MacKenny curates Threshold, an exhibition of "environmentally conscious art" showing in the Michaelis Main Gallery, with climate change very much in mind. Running at the same time is A Conversation with Bolus: Science, sensibility, sensuality, exhibited in the Michaelis Upper Gallery and curated by Nadja Daehnke.

This exhibition not only celebrates the works of amateur botanist Harry Bolus, but also incorporates a selection of contemporary artworks to play off manuscripts, art and objects from the Bolus collections. Artists contributing to the exhibitions include Thomas Mulcaire, Jeremy Wafer, Lucas Thobejane and Lien Botha, whose photograph, Sociable Weaver's Nest appears in picture.