“From Ink to Action – Using Comic Art to Save the Planet” is a collaboration between The Lakes International Comic Art Festival (LICAF) and the British Council – MENA. This initiative unites twelve artists from the Arab region, empowering them to address urgent environmental concerns through the impactful medium of comic art.
The goal of the exhibition is to amplify Arab voices in the global conversation on climate change. Twelve artists from Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria were selected after shortlisting 24 candidates. Lina Ghaibeh and Georges Khoury-JAD were part of the initial selection, with a committee from LICAF and BC making the final decision based on artists’ experiences and cultural backgrounds.
These artists, known for their engagement in social and cultural dynamics through comics, were commissioned to create works contextualised in their home environments. The focus was on addressing environmental issues relevant to their communities and the Arab region, resulting in diverse artworks with subtle, poignant, sarcastic, and gentle aesthetics. Topics ranged from chemical pollution to sea level rise, war, displacement, and even moon tourism.
The creative process was open, allowing artists to independently research environmental issues and use their unique approaches to create stories that resonated with them. This collaboration was born under the British Council’s creative commissions as part of the Culture Responds Global Programme. It premiered at the 2023 LICAF festival in Windermere before moving to Dubai with additional elements, including a publication and various activities.
‘From Ink to Action’ reflects the cultural diversity and interconnectedness of environmental issues in the Arab region, acknowledging that climate change is a global challenge that affects the future. The exhibition in Dubai included live painting interactive sessions, a panel discussion, and videos at COP28’s Blue Zone, providing an immersive experience.
The project aligns with the British Council’s commitment to embedding climate action in its work and operations, supporting over 30 partnerships since COP26. “From Ink to Action” started in the UK, gained prominence in Dubai, and is set to expand to other locations in the region. The exhibition aspires to foster global awareness and action against the climate crisis, impacting artists, viewers, and the broader conversation on environmental responsibility. Through the universal language of art, this collaborative effort aims to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Location: Al Serkal Avenue – Warehouse 58
Dates: Friday, 08 December 2023