“How Shall We Live?”

 Our art shows were launched to give young people of high school age an opportunity to not only learn the facts and science of climate change, but access and process the issues in personally relevant and creative ways. The shows, held at prominent venues, elevate these artists voices as a call to change and inspiration to action.

The shows are a collaboration of Living the Change Berkshires and Cooler Communities and have run in the Berkshires since 2020 , involving over 800 students from most Berkshire high schools. Springfield Public Schools included an art show in their Cooler Communities event for the first time in 2026.

Art can play a unique role in allowing students to engage with environmental topics through their own experience, and process difficult emotions. It encourages a sense of agency to take further action, and can inspire others to do so, stimulating dialogue across generations. It is not uncommon for visitors to be moved to tears by the art or the artists’ statements. 

We trust that the art can inspire families to learn about and take action at home, while decision makers need reminding that climate change is an issue that needs to be prioritized in every possible way. 

If you are interested in hosting a climate art show at your school or in your town, please reach out to info@coolercommunities.org. 

Cooler Communities provides grants for art materials and support in planning for and hosting a climate art show. We’d love to hear from you.