Visual Narratives of Climate Change in Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Abstract

Through a mixed-methods research design, one combining the qualitative thematic and statistical analysis, the study explores the role of contemporary art exhibitions in the representation and expression of climate change.  Sixty global exhibitions were used to collect the data between 2015 and 2024. This data consisted of curatorial writings, visual records, visitor statistics and viewer surveys.  The findings reported that the biodiversity/forest preservation/glacial retreat-related displays were much better engaged than the more particular displays regarding ecology.  Regression modelling revealed that the engagement of the visitors also depended on the audience size in addition to genre diversification and curatorial approach. There was a lot of popularity in exhibitions which were interactive and that told stories, getting people interested was important.  Regional comparison was also used to highlight cultural differences, as European shows were more centered towards ecology issues whereas North American shows were more concerned with air pollution issues and industry impact.  These tendencies were supported by survey results of the audience, who believed that exhibitions about which there are many stories are more effective among younger people.  The synthesis of both qualitative and quantitative findings produced the evidence that tactical methods employed by artists that merge science with human-oriented story editorializing come a great way in enhancing the communication of climate change.  The research concludes that modern art exhibits are excellent methods of informing the people about the environmental problems and engaging them in the process as it relates the science argument to a practical behavior.  Such insights can contribute to the body of cultural sustainability work because they aptly demonstrate how art may mobilize audiences into ecological consciousness in the Anthropocene.