Environmental artivism a vital contribution to a sustainable transition: with case studies from the Pacific Islands

Raphaela R Raaber

Environmental Artivism is a creative tool that addresses and confronts people with environmental issues and enables inspiration for a sustainable transition. The impacts of Environmental Artivism evolve in practices, processes and through the art pieces themselves. Artivism has a long history and was part of major social change movements, such as the human rights movement. Many scholars believe that activism and art are intrinsically linked to democratic political systems. Notably, Peter Weibel (2001) talks about ‘performative democracy’ and claims that modern global activism depends on artistic means to tackle and suggest solutions for crises. However, activism and art often suffer from negative stigma and perception. Worldwide, artists are contributing to a sustainable transition through creative communication and education about environmental degradation and climate change issues. However, very little research focuses on illustrating the overall and multiple benefits and functions of Environmental Artivism and how it is practised and perceived. This thesis addresses this research gap by exploring Environmental Artivism and examining practitioners' perspectives. The thesis focuses on practitioners and case studies from and for the Pacific Islands, a region that is particularly vulnerable to human-induced environmental threats but where, due to its geographic location and isolation, people’s environmental concerns and voices might not otherwise be heard. Through the use of case studies framed by a reflective, analytical narrative, this thesis illuminates the opportunities Environmental Artivism provides in the journey to a sustainable transition. The outcomes suggest that Environmental Artivism is an effective cultural practice that permits freedom of speech, ignites social transformation and serves as an intersection for a holistic engagement with values, traditions, history and science interwoven with artistic expressions. At the individual level, practitioners reported in the interviews that Environmental Artivism is a powerful vehicle that allows the stories of people affected and concerned with environmental causes to be heard. The main finding indicates that a shift from dystopian to a more sustainable solution-envisioning practice is needed. The dissertation strengthens the recognition of the potential of Artivism by drawing parallels with propaganda and advertisement. The findings suggest additional health benefits, particularly for the younger generation suffering from eco- and climate anxiety, by understanding Environmental Artivism as an empowering tool for action. On an educational level, evidence is presented that Environmental Artivism embodies a thought-provoking tool for engagement and educative practice. Most notably, the research exposes the necessity for improved collaboration to strengthen Environmental Artivists’ belief in the significance of their work and practice. Finally, the thesis reveals the critical need to reflect and dismantle negative framing and recognise Environmental Artivism as a positive and substantial tool to drive social change, democracy, and sustainability.

Environmental artivism a vital contribution to a sustainable transition: with case studies from the Pacific Islands

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