In April 2023, the UAL Climate Emergency Network (CEN) organised an Earth Day initiative spanning 10 days. This event programme was a blend of exhibitions and activities, aimed to unite a diverse group of creative individuals, including artists, designers, campaigners, educators, and experts from various fields.

Throughout the week, an exciting lineup of events engaged students, staff and alumni. Lucy Orta’s installation ‘Fabulae Naturae’ treated visitors to 60ft draperies on the Granary Building, spotlighting the issue of species loss in the UK, while Phil Barton’s installation at Granary Square fountains drew attention to rising sea levels.

We had rich discussions on climate issues through a series of events, including a conversation on climate justice led by our Climate Advocates, and a moss workshop exploring the unique connections between humans and nature. A zine-making workshop run by Roots + Routes facilitated a dialogue on sustainable fashion and accountability in the fashion industry.

Other events in the programme included guided tours at London College of Communications’ library to showcase nature-based themes and binding methods, while the Camberwell Repair Café and graduate start-up Renée Materials offered opportunities to enhance skills in stitching, patching and mending.

At the Recycled Bag Weaving Workshop, attendees learned to reuse materials in their practice. The Green Screening event shared a series of film by CEN to demonstrate how purpose-driven storytelling can inspire positive change.

The Earth Day initiative encouraged dialogue, action and artistic expression as essential tools in the fight for a more sustainable and just future.