The climate crisis is an urgent global concern. Self as Universe: Mending Our Collective Ecosystem Residencies at A Studio in the Woods invite artists to explore the connections within our collective ecosystems and use the power of imagination to heal the wounds in the relationship between ourselves and our communities.

Southeast Louisiana’s land and inhabitants are continually scarred by the effects of environmental degradation. These injuries – the historical to the present – affect our bodies, families, communities, and cultures, as well as the land and its other creatures.  We encourage artists to guide our collective response as the caretakers and caregivers to our universe while bringing wisdom, integrity, optimism, and even humor to intentional and timely projects seeking transformation for our species and our planet.

In 2024, we piloted this program and conceptualized it in response to ongoing conversations with the inspirational poet Sunni Patterson. 

*Approximately every three years we evolve the theme to reflect current events. Previous themes responded to hurricanes, oil spills, and climate justice. This new call reflects a desire to repair the disconnection and alienation between humankind and the planet that is hindering the climate movement.

Photo by Virginia Hanusik.