Remembering Nature: Art as Activism and a Beacon of Hope
The enduring power of art to confront challenging realities and inspire positive change is vividly on display this November with the restaging of “Remember Nature,” a project originally conceived in 1970.It’s a call to action, a moment for reflection, and a testament to the unwavering optimism of its originator. This year’s event, taking place on november 4th at 16 arts institutions across Britain, builds on a legacy of using creativity to address pressing issues.
A Legacy of protest and Remembrance
Originally, artist Gustav Metzger envisioned “Remember Nature” as a response to the escalating environmental crisis and the anxieties of the Cold War. He proposed a day dedicated to acknowledging the fragility of our planet and the potential for destruction. Now, decades later, the project feels more relevant than ever.
Today, we face a complex web of environmental concerns alongside ongoing social injustices. The renewed “Remember Nature” aims to reignite that original spirit of protest, but with a crucial shift towards empowerment and hope.It’s about acknowledging the darkness, but refusing to be consumed by it.
Artists Leading the Charge
several artists are contributing unique perspectives to this year’s “Remember nature.” Paul harfleet, a multidisciplinary artist with a background in drag performance, exemplifies this innovative approach. His “Birds Can Fly” project beautifully blends art and activism.
Harfleet draws birds, then embodies them through costume, creating a powerful visual statement. For “Remember Nature” day, he plans to transform into Liverpool’s iconic Liver bird. He’s also leading a walking tour of the city, revisiting sites central to his poignant “Pansy Project.”
The Pansy Project: A Blooming Memorial to Resilience
The “Pansy Project” began as a personal response to homophobic abuse.While living in Manchester, Harfleet experienced three incidents of hate in a single day. In response, he began planting pansies – a flower historically used as a derogatory term – at the locations of each incident.
He then photographed the blooms as a temporary memorial. The project has as grown to encompass experiences shared by individuals worldwide. It’s a powerful act of reclaiming a symbol of hate and transforming it into a gesture of remembrance and resilience. Understandably, these delicate memorials are often short-lived, frequently becoming a snack for local pigeons.
Harfleet’s choice of the pansy is layered with meaning. Beyond its unfortunate history, the flower’s name originates from the French verb penser, meaning “to think.” This connection highlights the injustice of suppressing thoughtfulness and individuality.
Planting Seeds of Change
On November 4th, Harfleet will plant new pansies and revisit previous memorial sites during his walking tour.He’ll share the stories behind each location, fostering dialog and remembrance. He acknowledges the unfortunate reality that new incidents continue to occur, underscoring the ongoing need for awareness and advocacy.
Ultimately, Harfleet and other participating artists hope their work will spark crucial conversations and inspire action. Like Metzger, they believe in the power of art to move us, challenge us, and ultimately, empower us.
A Future Rooted in Hope
The driving force behind the revival of “Remember Nature” is a commitment to positivity. Organizers intentionally sought to create an event that is compelling and empowering, rather than succumbing to the pervasive sense of doom and gloom.
We can’t afford to live in darkness, and this project offers a pathway forward.It’s a reminder that even in the face of immense challenges, we can choose hope and actively work towards a better future.
Remember Nature 2025 takes place on 4 November at 16 arts institutions across Britain.
