Art and The Anthropocene: processes of responsiveness and communication in an era of environmental uncertainty

This practice-led research project explores processes of cultural response to the communication of complex environmental issues through two main forms of process-based art production: one in the private studio in the form of drawings and the other in the public sphere through varied approaches. It examines some of the prevailing human activities and cultural mythologies that led us to the current ecological crisis and highlights some of the critical challenges environmental communicators face in communicating the findings of climate science to diverse audiences. I have sought to emphasise the significance of affective communication methods in conveying complex and often-contentious environmental issues, and the role art may contribute to this exchange.<br><br>The aim of this research is to underscore some of the opportunities for artists to engage as interlocutors and mediators within the network of environmental communication. Accordingly, the research examines some of the historical precedents of environmental art and how contemporary artists approach both local and global environmental issues.<br><br>The research offers new knowledge in two ways. First, in the processes of response and communication in the production of public artworks, which explore local issues such as water protection and security, to large-scale drawings that address broader ecological issues influencing global climate change. And, secondly in the exegesis, where the findings of process-based art production and contextual research contribute to the field of environmental art discourse. It also offers methods of approach for artists and science communicators to work together in addressing some of the greatest environmental challenges of the Anthropocene.<br><br>