Exhibition explores climate impact on SEND community

A collective of talented artists with learning disabilities has expressed their sensory responses to an evolving climate in an exhibition entitled Hullabaloo.

In collaboration with Green and Healthy Frome, OpenStoryTellers have brought together four local creative facilitators to work alongside the artists, guiding them in expressing their thoughts and experiences through various creative mediums.

The exhibition, due to be held from 26th November to 5th December at The Black Swan Arts, explores the beauty of the natural world and the community that lives alongside it, while addressing the anxiety and anger caused by waste and global warming.

Spokesperson for the event, Annabel Crooke, said, “Increasing evidence shows that people with disabilities are disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change. This raises an important question: Is climate change a disability issue?

OpenStoryTeller artist Robin shares his thoughts on his art, the changing environment and how it makes him feel. He said, “When people watch the film about our bus journey, I want them to think about pollution because there are thousands of vehicles now on the road. Also, the effect it has on the environment when they take out lots of trees and plants to build new roads. The Vale of Avalon could be a housing estate! When the weather gets really bad because of climate change, I feel like I could be drowning. If it is really flooding, it is really scary for us onboard, and for the farmers and their cows in the fields.”

Annabel said, “We hope that in this collection of art, photography, film, soundscape and sculpture we can elevate the voices of people with learning disabilities by co-creating work that celebrates neurodiversity and inclusion.”

The exhibition is due to run from 10.30am to 3pm, at The Round Tower, Black Swan Arts, Frome, BA11 1BB, including on Sunday 1st December when you can pop in during the Independent Market.

Entry is free and the building is accessible. On most days, OpenStoryTellers artists will be there to show you their work.

Creative facilitator Howard Vause says of the video project he co-created with OpenStoryTellers artists, “We invite viewers to step into a world where the mundane is magical, where the journey is more than just a destination, it is a voyage through stories, seasons, and a landscape touched by legends.”

Annabel said, “Join us for a thought-provoking and engaging discussion at this free event. Bring your friends, enjoy the art and explore the impact of climate change on individuals with disabilities. Let’s raise awareness and introduce a fresh perspective to the conversation.”

Pictured: OpenStoryTeller artists wearing some of their creations from the ‘Wool Influencers’ session with artist facilitator Jade Ogden