Asthildur Jónsdóttir

3.14 Melting Boundaries: Learning About Glaciers Through Art in Museums (Paper)

Asthildur Jónsdóttir – University of Iceland, Iceland

Hanna Ólafsdóttir – University of Iceland, Iceland

Abstract:

Glaciers are a vital topic in teaching Earth’s history and climate change, offering unique opportunities to explore sustainability through art. This study reflects on the Resistance exhibition at the National Gallery of Iceland, particularly the project Ice Fragments – Glaciers in Icelandic Art. Situated on the top floor of the Resistance exhibition, the project was designed to engage participants with the melting of glaciers through workshops led by artists influenced by glaciers or climate change in their own work. These workshops explored the complexities of the threats facing glaciers using diverse media such as satellite data, plant remains from beneath glaciers, textures, shapes, colours, sounds, movements, and memories of vanished glaciers. 

The workshops served as a mirror, reflecting the urgency of climate change in ways that raw data and reports often cannot. By moving beyond facts and figures, the art evoked emotions, created dialogue, and mobilized participants. Using Falk’s (2022) “9 Principles for Quality Museum Experiences”, the project highlighted how museums can serve as transformative spaces where science, art, and heritage merge to inspire conceptual learning and critical engagement with pressing environmental challenges. This qualitative study demonstrates the potential of art to foster sustainability education, linking the findings to the National Curriculum for Primary Schools and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By addressing disrupted traditions and digital transitions, the project exemplifies how art education shapes values and identities while promoting environmental awareness and action.

6.20 Sustainability and Nature: Tackling Wicked Problems through Visual Storytelling (Paper)

Asthildur Jónsdóttir – University of Iceland, Iceland

Abstract:

In an era of rapid environmental degradation and cultural shifts around sustainability, fast fashion has emerged as a poignant example of a “wicked problem” – complex, multifaceted issues without straightforward solutions. This presentation proposes a reflective and interactive exploration of how visual art and creative writing can be a powerful medium for examining, understanding, and challenging the unsustainable practices of the fast fashion industry. The presentation presents a case study that is based on an immersive two-day workshop where participants explored the complex and interconnected challenges of sustainability, known as “wicked problems,” through the powerful mediums of visual storytelling and poetry. Using collage, painting, drawing and photography attendees learned how to communicate these intricate issues creatively and compellingly. This hands-on workshop was designed for anyone interested in using visual arts to inspire change and raise awareness about sustainability. By the end of the workshop, participants gained a deeper understanding of sustainability and the nature of wicked problems. They became proficient in using creative ways to create compelling visual stories. Developed the skills to communicate complex sustainability issues to diverse audiences effectively through words and images. Through the interdisciplinary learning, we uncovered how artistic engagement enabled a deeper understanding of sustainability issues, provoking critical thought, and fostering empathy that can inspire meaningful action. This was a transformative experience where creativity met sustainability, and participants learned to use the power of visual storytelling to address some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. This presentation will be aligned with the theme of creativity as a vehicle for social and environmental responsibility. By focusing on fast fashion this presentation highlights the critical need for innovative educational methods that deepen understanding and inspire sustainable practices. Attendees will leave with practical ideas for using art to address sustainability in ways that are both thought-provoking and impactful.