Barking, London – On Tuesday 5 November, 2024, Laura I. Art Gallery proudly presents I Am An Arktivist, a groundbreaking event that fuses art and environmental activism to inspire lasting change. Located at the Barking Learning Centre, this transformative day from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm invites the community to engage in creative action, sustainability, and dialogue on pressing environmental issues.
The event boasts an impressive lineup of esteemed guests and leaders dedicated to environmental advocacy. Mayor Moin Quadri, Deputy Leader Saima Ashraf, and Kashif Haroon, Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Climate Change, will share valuable insights into Barking and Dagenham’s ambitious vision for a greener future.
“I Am An Arktivist brings together experts across sustainability, recycling, conservation, and green urban planning,” says Neil Pearce, Head of Sustainability, Net Zero & Parks Commissioning. “This event provides a platform to discuss key green initiatives transforming the borough and encourages community involvement in environmental stewardship.”
The event features a diverse range of speakers and highlights, including discussions on waste reduction and recycling innovations by Dilip Baishya and Sushant Bali. They will also introduce a Zero Waste Living stall and share insights into ‘Buy Nothing New Month’ and a five-minute clip from The Story of Stuff.
Thames Life’s Matt Scott will introduce the principles of permaculture and discuss local food forest projects, while Will Oliver from Thames21 will present on local river and green space conservation.
The event will also feature organizations at the forefront of environmental activism and sustainable living, including Roding Rubbish, Vegan Society, Keep Britain Tidy, and Flow Happy CIC. These organizations will showcase impactful, community-led environmental initiatives and offer insights into the environmental benefits of plant-based choices, sustainable living, and well-being through environmental sustainability.
One of the highlights of the event is The Ark Exhibition, curated by the talented Laimilija Zilyte and supported by The Legacy Assets Group and Cultural Partnership Group. This environmental art exhibit tackles critical issues like climate change, pollution, and sustainability, showcasing the powerful role art plays in driving environmental change.
Attendees will also have the chance to meet Noah, the mascot of Laura I. Art Gallery, representing their commitment to sustainability and community action. Interactive workshops, from upcycled art projects to creating personal pledges for environmental stewardship, will engage community members in exploring sustainable practices and contributing to a greener future.
Singer and songwriter Rebecca Daly will also be performing a melody of acoustic songs that speak to the importance of climate change and Earth’s beauty.
Laura I. Art Gallery invites everyone – artists, environmentalists, families, and all who care about the planet – to join I Am An Arktivist. Together, we’ll celebrate art’s ability to inspire and drive change, making Barking and Dagenham a shining example of community-driven environmental action.
Event Details:
Date: 30th November 2024
Time: 12:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Location: Barking Learning Centre, Conference Room
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.