The artistic efforts of ‘creative campaigners’ from schools and community groups across Coventry have resulted in the latest Rotary project about the importance of the environment.
The Climate Change and Oceans Project Exhibition, which opened last week, is on the theme of pollution in our oceans and includes artwork by pupils from 12 primary schools in the city.
Running alongside a program of activities, seminars and partnerships to help educate and raise awareness in the local community, it is the culmination of the latest initiative, which has been organised for the last 10 years by Heart of England Environment Officer and District Assistant Governor Gabrielle Back.
Gabrielle said: “The project consisted of schools’ research on ocean pollution, a schools competition to produce artwork on fish and fishscapes and community
groups making fish depictions and recycled fish.
“This exhibition is extremely important because it raises awareness of pollution of our waters and the detrimental impact we are having on wildlife in our seas and oceans. This is a very creative way of addressing our Eco issues and bringing them to the forefront. It also develops participants’ artistic skills and encourages community spirit and fellowship through working together.
“The exhibition will hopefully encourage viewers to think about the environment and how we can help protect it by cutting down on pollution.”
The launch event, at Holy Trinity Church on Friday (23rd), was supported by local dignitaries including The Lord Mayor of Coventry Jazwinder Sing and Mayor of Alcester Coun Vaughan Blake.
Winning artwork was entered by pupils at Baginton Fields Special School, who win a set of nature books for their library. Cannon Park Primary School was awarded Highly Commended and every participating child received a certificate. The exhibition also featured pieces by community groups, including Baginton Ladies Circle, Burton Green WI, U3A, St Martins Church Groups and Positive Image Network.
Themes over the last 10 years of the Rotary Art project have included Recycled Angels, Switch Off, Carbon Footprint, Around The World, Cut Down On Plastics, Green Hearts and Helping Hands. Planning is now under way for next year’s project on the theme of Hand Prints for Action and Endangered Wildlife.
