This group exhibition is an in-depth exploration of the role of art as a powerful catalyst for environmental activism. At first glance, these works each possess striking beauty. However, a closer inspection reveals a profound and often unsettling depth that challenges one’s perceptions.

The artworks are imbued with many layers of meaning, inviting us to engage critically with the themes presented and encouraging us to reflect on our often-fraught relationship with the natural world. Through a variety of mediums and techniques, these works prompt us to confront uncomfortable truths about climate change, habitat loss, and the disappearing biodiversity around us.

Campbell’s captivating “Heatscape” series transforms what is often an intangible concept into the tangible realm by visually translating heat distribution data to depict the impact of urban design on climate. This series offers a profound exploration of the intriguing phenomenon known as "urban heat islands”, a term that describes urban areas that absorb and radiate significantly more heat than their surrounding rural landscapes due to human activities and infrastructure.

“Heatscape” invites us to engage in a deeper reflection about the profound impact that human ingenuity has wielded over the natural world, serving as a visual reminder of our responsibility to urban design that is considerate to the environment and communities it impacts. This work challenges us to recognize the interplay between our lifestyles and the environment, urging a dialogue about sustainable practices that could mitigate the effects of these heat islands.

Snider’s work powerfully illustrates the remnants of industrialization, capturing the unsettling essence of its aftermath. In his art, we encounter an urban landscape that is strikingly devoid of human presence, creating an almost haunting atmosphere. This absence of people amplifies the eerie feeling and serves as a warning about the enduring consequences of industrial progress. It prompts viewers to reflect on the environmental impact and the transformations that society has undergone, urging us to consider what aspects of our world will persist in the wake of such change. Ultimately, Snider’s poignant depictions challenge us to confront the stark reality of a landscape altered by human activity, inviting contemplation on both the beauty and the desolation that can coexist in our modern environments.

Sandra Osip’s sculptures delve deeply into the juxtaposition of decay and destruction alongside the concepts of life and growth. Through her abstract structures, she illustrates the profound effects climate change has on our urban landscapes and the planet as a whole. These pieces serve as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human impact, while Osip’s imaginative flowers evoke a sense of nostalgia and loss, symbolizing the beauty of what has been irretrievably diminished in our world. By celebrating these natural forms, she not only honors the richness of biodiversity but also raises awareness about the environmental crisis we face.

Cassells’ work not only celebrates a profound connection to nature and sustainable practices but also serves to illuminate the significant impact that climate change has on vulnerable communities. Through her art, she investigates the intricate relationships between different environmental systems, emphasizing how they are all interconnected.

By delving into these themes, Cassells sheds light on the challenges faced by communities that often bear the brunt of climate change despite contributing the least to the problem. Her exploration encourages a deeper understanding of how environmental changes affect social structures and the lives of people in marginalized areas. In doing so, she advocates for greater awareness and action to address these issues, ultimately promoting a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Shanna Merola’s photo-collages are informed by the stories of environmental justice struggles past and present. Shanna Merola and Halima Afi Cassells collaborated on collage and interactive installations for over five years. Researching, wandering, photographing, and creating together while interrogating the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, and global corporatism, and community response.

Sobel takes a more straightforward approach by helping us begin to grasp the reality of living in a world affected by climate change. Her work described as “wilderness-based, science-inspired”, serves as a bridge, connecting viewers to experiences that might seem too distant or unfolding too slowly for most people to comprehend firsthand. In doing so, she not only raises awareness but also encourages dialogue about the pressing challenges our planet faces. Through her work, Sobel facilitates a deeper understanding of the interconnection between humanity and the environment, compelling us to reflect on our role in addressing these urgent issues.

These diverse approaches to creating art serve as powerful connections to the most critical and pressing environmental issues of our time. This engagement serves to deepen our understanding of these challenges from multiple perspectives, including cultural, social, and scientific viewpoints.
Furthermore, these approaches are not only meant to inform but also to inspire. They challenge us to reconsider our relationship with the planet and encourage us to take actionable steps toward sustainability.