Artists and scientists are thinking the same way
EcoArts is not an average art show.
The art show opened on Friday night at the Dairy Center for the Arts with a ‘green’ atmosphere, and those who attended received a crash course in climate change literacy along with information about a new form of electrical technology called Smart Grid.
The gallery challenged guests to ponder more fundamental questions of life outside a limited view of the world through examples of what else is out there. The art exhibit narrates the self-sustaining practices implemented by the Tibetans and Chinese in everyday life.
“I wanted to know why climate change is happening and nothing is being done about it. There are hundreds of solutions so we need more effect to get something going,” said Marda Kirn, executive director of EcoArts 08.
Kirn believes there is so much more to learn by combining an artistic point of view with environmental scientists.
“It’s serious and fun and that’s important for such a heavy duty topic,” Kirn said.
Kirn’s movement is being showcased throughout Boulder. EcoArts will consist of various events including performances, talks, exhibits, films, tours and more.
The event came from the idea of combining cognition and effect of human power. Kirn’s background in dance and her enthusiasm about climate change has influenced people to begin thinking about being ‘eco’ in a different way.
‘When you combine the mind (cognition) and heart (effect) the connection between the two creates an effect, which in turn jump starts our thinking about solutions for the environment.” Kirn said.
While some are excited about EcoArts, others are skeptical.
“I’ve been involved with ecology since the 90’s and this is nothing new. Colorado is like a stamp on an envelope compared to the rest of the world; there’s a bigger picture we need to understand and to me it’s just been there done that,” said Elizabeth Ohmes of Denver.
Many of the guests there were just beginning to understand what the public can do to combat climate change. But the world’s future seems bright, literally, after Xcel Energy presented the possible future of electrical living. The Smart Grid exhibit is an electrical grid system that is designed to increase the efficiency of renewable energy sources in digitalized home appliances.
“I recently moved to Boulder and I wanted to explore the arts scene. I got a handout on the Xcel Smart Grid technology and it’s something I would think about if I bought a new place.” said Kevin Kelly, 52, a Boulder resident.
Kirn realizes that people need to know what’s going on and by orchestrating this variety show her message to the public suggests that finding and acting on solutions are vital in stopping what has already been done.
“One, climate change is happening and it is urgent and we need to wake up and act. Two, sustainability is about shifting and not about sacrifice.” Kirn said.
EcoArts continues through Oct. 9 and will make stops in Denver and Fort Collins. For a more in depth calendar of events visit: www.ecoartsonline.com.
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Sara Handing at sara.handing@colorado.edu.
