Communicating climate change: an artistic perspective

14th -16th August 2026

Colombo, Sri Lanka

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Communicating climate change: an artistic perspective

14th -16th August 2026

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Introduction

Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time, affecting every aspect of society, from food systems, health, livelihoods, and migration to oceans and the way we produce, consume, and live. While scientific evidence and policy discussions remain essential, communicating the urgency and human dimensions of climate change calls for approaches that are accessible, engaging, and emotionally resonant. Art holds a unique ability to translate complex environmental issues into powerful visual narratives that inspire reflection, dialogue, and action.

This three-day exhibition and engagement programme brings together artists, climate practitioners, communicators, and the wider public to explore climate change through an artistic lens. By showcasing diverse artistic interpretations of climate-related themes, the event fosters meaningful conversations, encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthens public understanding of climate challenges and solutions.

Hosted at ART Rhizome from 14–16 August 2026, the programme features an art exhibition, live art sessions, panel discussions, and networking events that connect climate science with creative practice. Visual artists working across painting, illustration, photography, sculpture, mixed media, installation, and digital art will present original works inspired by themes such as resilience, health, adaptation, migration, food systems, oceans, and loss and damage.

Beyond serving as a platform for artistic expression, the programme aims to build the capacity of artists and communicators to engage with climate issues, amplify Sri Lankan creative voices, and cultivate a community committed to using art as a catalyst for climate awareness, dialogue, and collective action.

Guidelines & Templates

Objectives

  • Increase awareness of climate change impacts across different sectors through artistic and creative expression.
  • Promote art and creative practice as alternative and effective approaches to climate change communication.
  • Engage artists, creatives, and communicators in developing compelling narratives that reach wider and more diverse audiences.
  • Showcase and support Sri Lankan artists while fostering artistic innovation, cultural expression, and environmental storytelling.
  • Strengthen the capacity of artists and communicators to interpret and communicate climate-related issues through creative media.
  • Facilitate dialogue and collaboration between artists, climate experts, policymakers, civil society, and the public.
  • Encourage interdisciplinary partnerships that bridge science, art, and community engagement.
  • Inspire critical reflection and public conversations on climate resilience, adaptation, food systems, health, migration, oceans, and loss and damage.
  • Foster a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaborative solution building among diverse stakeholders.
  • Encourage greater public engagement and action towards building a more climate-resilient and sustainable future.

Information Note

Agenda

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