The climate crisis is one of the most pressing issues we face today - we are faced daily with the catastrophic effects of flooding, fires, and destruction. We know we must act but sometimes it feels that we are powerless as individuals and the problem feels too big. Climate Studios addresses this by providing an inviting, collaborative space to explore and learn about these issues using creative, artistic practice; helping us to work together to create a better future for everyone. The project will be a series of Research and learning : talks, reading groups, written materials Creating: paint, pottery, banner making - artist led workshops, exhibitions with a focus on sustainability and natural materials Community: making space to

What we'll deliver:

• At least 6 workshops for a group of local residents
• An exhibition or public event open to a larger group
• Engage Tower Hamlets residents in climate change action
• Collective climate action - decided by the group

Why it's a great idea:

This project is a testing ground. It will encourage experimentation, trying ideas, daring to fail, getting it wrong as part of the learning journey. Climate Studios will encourage people to participate with all (or no) prior knowledge of the climate crisis. Its a scary topic so the space needs to be welcoming and judgement free. The main benefit will be to engage people in climate and environmental issues, bridging the information gap and prioritising accessible climate science, diverse knowledge and lived stories. The collaborative nature of the workshops and artist-led events will nurture relationships and improve wellbeing by building supportive networks Tangible carbon savings (carbon literacy training can have 5-15% carbon reduction per person) will support Tower Hamlets in achieving their net-zero goals. There will be a wider impact as participants can become leaders in their communities.

Steps to get it done:

• Confirm schedule of events
• Contact artists and other collaborators
• Promote events - sign up to be part of the project
• Engage a minimum of 40 directly (participating in workshops)
• Engage over 150 indirectly (attending events and social media)

There is a deliberate openness in the plans as the outcomes will be co-created and responsive to the groups' interests and needs as much as possible. The workshops can lead up to a collective project by the group for example a community garden, mural, solar panel installation or outreach campaign.