Art show sparks cultural climate conversations An exhibition of historic and contemporary artworks sparked conversation about environment, ecology and the entangled relationship between economic and colonial legacies and the climate crisis. Rooting: Ecology, Extraction & Environmental Emergency in the University’s art collection showcases a range of artforms by 30 different artists acquired by the University and which, like the wider collections, are currently used to support and enhance research and learning. It is estimated to receive 20,000 visitors including international visitors attending the Fringe Festival.Works by a range of world-renowned artists were on display. These included Ian Hamilton Finlay, Joan Eardley, Hew Locke, and Alberta Whittle, alongside a number of contemporary artists who are graduates of Edinburgh College of Art (ECA), including Katie Paterson, Daisy Lafarge and Ruth Ewan. The next generation of leading artists are championed through works from recent ECA graduates including Clarissa Gurd, Ffion Williams and Valentina Lobos Muñoz. The exhibition featured audio and interactive elements which highlight several research, teaching and operational programmes across the University that are contributing to a more sustainable future. Supports Sustainable Development Goals:13. Climate Action “Taking inspiration from the meaning of ‘rooting’ – to grow, begin, or connect – our exhibition invites visitors to consider the entwined stories of art, history and nature across time and different artforms. We are really excited to have been able to showcase art works from the collection in this unique way and look forward to the conversations we hope it sparks with visitors around some of the most pressing issues facing the world today,” Olivia Laumensch Exhibition Curator This article was published on 2025-01-23
