The Arts and Environmental Advocacy: Imagination, Responsibility and Utility

Session Submission Type: Paper Session

Abstract

The panel addresses the emerging role of the arts as new formations of environmental communications, and poses the question: is there a new role for the arts in how we communicate climate change and serious environmental issues? Do artists have a responsibility to make work that addresses environmental issues? How might art play a significant role in environmental communications and in particular relating to climate? The panel seeks to foster dialog across disciplines and expertise.

Sub Unit

• Environmental Communication Division

Chair

• Dylan Wolfe, Clemson University

Individual Presentations

• Photography, the Environment and Social Responsibility - Howard Bossen, Michigan State University

• Representations of Climate Change: Climate Porn and the Consumer Sublime versus Performative Visual Art - Max Liboiron, New York University

• Visual Parables and Environmental Ethics - Diane Hope, Rochester Institute of Technology

• Overcoming Utility: The Experience of Environmental Art - Dylan Wolfe, Clemson University; David Novak, Clemson University

Session Organizer

• Katherine Karsnak, National Communication Association