Short abstract:

This research explores the role of visual artists in fostering dialogue and reflection on climate change. I will share initial insights based on artists' studio visits and curators' team meetings leading up to the KlimaatExpo exhibition at Muiderslot (opening June 2024).

Long abstract:

Over the past decade, a growing body of research has extensively analyzed the various narratives, claims, and representations of visual climate art. Yet, in these studies, the role of visual art in fostering processes of dialogue and reflection among viewers is often overlooked. This research focuses on artists with local fame, often women juggling art careers with other responsibilities, who may play a crucial yet undervalued role in local public deliberation on climate change. Embedded in local networks and typically motivated by personal expression rather than financial gain, they arguably play a crucial role in fostering dialogue and reflection within their communities. The study centers on the KlimaatExpo exhibition at the Muiderslot (June- September 2024), showcasing pieces by approximately 20 out of 2000+ local artists responding to an open call on climate art in 2022. The investigation aims to better understand the role of art in the climate debate by examining how local artists participating in the KlimaatExpo Muiderslot exhibition enable processes of public deliberation about climate change. To this end, we will perform ethnographic observations and interviews to explore both the intentions, challenges, and methods of participating artists and curators leading up to the exhibition, as well as the conversations among viewers sparked by the artworks during the exhibition. The exhibition opens in June 2024, so at the time of EASST, I will be able to share my first observations of the artists' studio visits and the curators' team meetings.