Saving the planet can feel like an overwhelming, impossible task. But how much can be achieved when we come together?
Inspired by objects at PHM celebrating the power of collective action, join a Radical Late evening of discussion followed by talks and workshops facilitated by photographer and independent film maker Shaheda Choudhury, that will bring our worries, hopes and ideas together to help us tackle the climate crisis and climate grief.
There will be opportunity to collectively imagine a world without the climate crisis and how we might get there. Learn more, face fears, share solutions and commit to actions to support a more sustainable future.
Shaheda Choudhury is a photographer and independent film maker. The core themes of her work are on colonialism, dissent, public disorder, race and gender equality. Films she has produced are Hats for Our Men (2009) and Black Noise (2020).
Suitable for ages 11+ (under 18s must have an accompanying adult present during sessions).
Funded by EDRF, URBACT, and C-Change.
6.30pm – 6.35pm: Introductions, running order and housekeeping, with Zofia Kufeldt, PHM Programme Officer
6.35pm – 7.20pm: Space to Imagine: a discussion to imagine a world without the climate crisis
How often do we have the space to imagine? This discussion is an opportunity to collectively imagine a world without the climate crisis, what that looks like and think about the practical actions that can help us get there. To get us started, PHM Learning Officer Liz Thorpe will share stories of collective action from PHM’s galleries and collections which have inspired Wigan Youth Cabinet and Atherton Youth Voice in tackling climate change and climate grief.
The discussion will be captured through visual minutes by artist Temujen Gunawardena.
7.20pm – 7.30pm: Break
7.30pm – 8.15pm: Breakout sessions
These three sessions will run at the same time, please select your preferred breakout session at the point of booking. Due to the interactive nature of the breakout sessions there are limited spaces for each. Whilst we will try our best to accommodate everyone, you may not get your first choice of session.
Breakout session one: Climate change, biodiversity, and nature based solutions with WWF
We are living through a pivotal opportunity for positive change for our planet. Throughout the past year, art and communities have had a vital role to play – in both imagining and building a better future.
What would our rebuilt future look like if we put nature at the heart of all of our decisions? In the lead up to the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), this year is critical to ensure we get back in balance with nature.
Find out how we can seize this opportunity in this collaborative session hosted by Amelia Temple, Community Manager at WWF with guest speakers, exploring tackling the climate emergency through food and lifestyles, and what we grow and eat.
Breakout session two: Climate emotions, justice, and action with Marion Smith and Pooja Kishinani
In this interactive session, core group members of Climate Action Manchester Marion Smith and Pooja Kishinani will explore the intersections of climate emotions, social justice, and local climate activism. The aim of the session is to create a safe space for conversations around climate grief and anxiety, sharing practical advice on activism, and learning to build and support a community that is committed to climate action.
Marion and Pooja are core group members of the organisation Climate Emergency Manchester, a local group of volunteers trying to get better local policies, and better action on climate change in place in terms of energy, transport, food and democracy, among other areas. Marion and Pooja are also co-authors of Student Guide to the Climate Crisis (2020), a handbook with the aim of assisting and supporting students in processing the emotional ramifications of the climate crisis. They have also been vocal about the need for educational and cultural institutions to address the climate emergency in a just, equitable, and inclusive manner.
Breakout session three: Window farming for urban gardeners with Colette Whittington
Do you want to learn how to grow your own food at home all year round? In this session find out how you can by building a window farm using a system of tubes and pumps and a small kitchen window with artist Colette Whittington.
Join in at home and make a hydroponic experiment to start your window farm. Recycling a plastic drink bottle with a bit of fabric and some gravel, get your first crop planted.
Materials needed to take part in this activity:
8.15pm – 8.30pm: Closing remarks and final thoughts
‘Space to Imagine, Time to Act’ was a topic discussed and captured through visual minutes by artist Temujen Gunawardena.
Suitable for ages 11+
‘Climate Change is a Justice Issue’ was a topic discussed and captured through visual minutes by artist Temujen Gunawardena.
Suitable for ages 11+
Make a hydroponic experiment to build your own window farm. Recycling a plastic drink bottle with a bit of fabric and some gravel, get your first crop planted.
Suitable for ages 7+
Get growing
Discover the power of storytelling in addressing climate grief and create a multi-ended story where the reader chooses the destiny of the planet.
Suitable for ages 7+
Create your story
Are you more independent or community-focused? Experimental or measured? Prefer work or play?
Take our quick quiz to find out which radical you are! At the end we’ll offer you access to our free e-newsletter which matches your interests to what’s on at PHM.
