A new report shows the power of the arts to engage audiences in conversations about the climate emergency and influence behavioural change.
Season for Change is a pioneering UK-wide cultural programme, designed to inspire urgent and inclusive action on climate change. The 15 nationwide art commissions evidenced the power of the arts to influence people’s behavioural and attitudinal change towards the environment.
The research showed that exploring climate change through arts programming engaged 231,000 people and over 3,000 artists, arts professionals and scientists in art commissions and conversations about climate.
The programme invited UK artists and cultural organisations to put climate action at the heart of their programming and creative works during the countdown to COP26. A particular aim was to platform voices that have historically been excluded from the climate conversation. The collective effort was striking and far-reaching, showcasing the creativity and leadership of the UK’s cultural sector on the most important issue of our time.
15 new participatory cross-artform commissions took place with arts partners and artists nationwide, engaging diverse communities with the climate crisis.
An open programme was organised, with artists and arts organisations invited to host events, artworks and actions across the UK to show their commitment to the environment. Over 230 UK-wide artistic events were spotlighted.
Season for Change is led by Artsadmin and Julie’s Bicycle and supported by Arts Council England and Paul Hamlyn Foundation.
Róise Goan, Artistic Director, Artsadmin said:
“Season for Change demonstrated the power of artists to lead, inform and empower communities in the climate justice movement. This excellent programme of arts activities not only changed hearts and minds but generated much needed action on climate.”
Alison Tickell, Founder and CEO, Julie’s Bicycle said:
“If anyone doubts that climate action needs culture, a quick immersion into Season for Change is all the persuasion needed. Artists and activists weaving climate, justice, community and creativity into a breath-taking programme of events and content makes an utterly compelling case that culture should be at the heart of climate action.”
A toolkit was created at the start of the programme, compiling top tips, case studies and resources to help creatives take action and will remain freely available on the website.
Photo: Markus Spiske on Unsplash.