With our Creative Unions exhibition now open at Central Saint Martins, we take a closer look at the themes and works which comprise the show.
As consumers, audiences and users, we often remain distanced from the methods and decisions that design our everyday routines. The projects in the Making Public section of Creative Unions promote participatory, accessible design, allowing citizens to engage with public processes. From the large-scale, impenetrable operation of city planning to facilitating personal discussions about current affairs, these works clarify the hidden and the obscure. By proposing rather than imposing solutions, they disclose information and research, demystifying the ways in which design is communicated to the general public.
For nearly three decades, many of the world’s largest fossil fuel companies have conducted a campaign to deceive the public about the realities and risks of climate change. Made entirely by screen-printing on to ice, BA Graphic Design graduate Adam Crockett’s film Climate Liars examines recently leaked information concerning this entrenched deception and questions the current stance on climate “deniers.” Here, he reports on recent “developments” since the release of the film and tells us how we can get involved in making public the truth about climate denial.
Adam Crockett, The Hottest Year Since Records Began
With 2018 already shaping up to be the hottest year since records began and the recent IPCC global warming report stating we have a mere 12 years to avoid a climate catastrophe, it’s clear that there is still much more to be done. The deception is also increasing at an alarming rate. Just this month new “scientists” have stepped forward with bogus findings, Trump has claimed he has an “instinct for science” that tells him climate change is a hoax and ExxonMobil have launched a nation-wide coverup campaign that explores whether algae is the answer. More people are needed to help make everyone aware about what is going on.
Since releasing Climate Liars in 2018 I’ve received so many questions about how I made it. While printing onto over 200 pieces of ice took more patience than I thought I had (and some great kit kindly lent to me by the Central Saint Martins printing department) creating your own melting message is a lot easier than you might think. So I have an idea.
All you are going to need is a container, water and some paint.
- Fill any container with water to approximately 4cm in depth. Ideally use a container with flat surfaces.
- Chuck it in the freezer and let it turn into ice overnight.
- Choose a message. Perhaps this is something that stood out to you in the film or you found online separately.
- Make sure your ice is so frozen that it feels “sticky.” If it still feels a bit wet on top put it back in the freezer for an hour or two.
- Take your paint and write your message bold and clearly onto the surface of the ice.
- Stand your ice up in a warm environment, grab a camera and watch as your message seamlessly begins to melt.
- Share this online with #ClimateLiars and help uncover the truth about climate denial.
Creating a melting message is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. If you get stuck at all feel free to contact me on Instagram and I’ll be happy to help. Good luck!
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Creative Unions is kindly supported by Louis Jadot Wines.