UCC and Met Éireann to launch graphic novel exploring climate change

• New graphic novel brings together climate science, visual storytelling and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Co-designed with communities as part of the Met Éireann funded TRANSLATE project, with narrative composition by Dr Rosa Rogers, visual design by Rosa Kelly and Irish translation by Merlin Pearson.
• UCC and Met Éireann event to explore creative approaches to climate communication.

University College Cork, in collaboration with Met Éireann, will launch Chasing the Curlew’s Call / Ar Lorg Ghlao an Chrotaigh, a new graphic novel that uses visual storytelling, climate science and public engagement to engage audiences with the real world impacts and ripple effects of climate change.

Dr Rosa Rogers, Research Fellow and Lecturer in Creative Writing at UCC College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences, guided the graphic novel from initial community co-design through to narrative development, in collaboration with visual artist Rosa Kelly and colleagues on the Met Éireann funded TRANSLATE project, with the text translated into Irish by Merlin Pearson.

The launch event will take place on Tuesday, 2 June from 4–6pm in the Aula Maxima, UCC.

Developed through a unique collaboration between UCC researchers, Met Éireann and members of the public, the project combines climate science, ecological research, visual storytelling and participatory design to communicate the real-world impacts of climate change in accessible and engaging ways.

The Met Éireann funded TRANSLATE research project reflects a growing interest in creative and interdisciplinary approaches to public climate engagement.

The launch will feature an exhibition tracing the development of the project, from the initial narrative design process through to visual art creation, Irish translation and young people’s creative responses. Attendees will also hear from Met Éireann on its support for this innovative climate communication initiative.

A panel discussion will explore the participatory processes behind the work, while closing presentations will share insights from youth workshops and highlight opportunities for educators and the wider public to engage with the project.

Dr Rosa Rogers said: "Chasing the Curlew’s Call / Ar Lorg Ghlao an Chrotaigh is a work that bridges applied arts and science collaboration, as well as participatory co-design. The launch will trace the creative production of this work, including a performance from the text, a process-based exhibition and panel discussion on the power of storytelling in meaningful climate communication. The event is free and open to all ages, we welcome people to join the conversation on how creative approaches can inspire greater public engagement with climate action."

"Funding the Curlew storyline through the TRANSLATE project shows the value of combining science, community perspectives and storytelling to help people engage with climate change,” Dr Catriona Duffy, Climate Services Division, Met Éireann, said.

Registration details

‘Visualising Climate Change Through Art & Storytelling: A Graphic Novel Launch’ will take place on Tuesday, 2 June from 4-6pm in the Aula Maxima, UCC.

Attendance is free, but registration is required via Eventbrite.