SALMON SCHOOL
AT THE UNITED NATIONS
CLIMATE CHANGE SUMMIT
Conceptualized by artist Joseph Rossano, Salmon School is an international, multimedia traveling art performance and exhibition to motivate communities to tackle the issues facing salmon populations and therefore address climate change.
Leading salmon conservationists from around the world have joined forces to bring this work to the United Nations Climate Change Summit (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland from October 31 - November 12 to advocate for change and inspire delegates to be bold in reaching their goals. The installation features a life-size school of mirrored salmon-like forms, sculpted from molten glass by concerned artists from around the globe, as well as first-hand video accounts from renowned scientists, artists, and indigenous peoples.
Its impacts will be transformative.
THE INSPIRATION
Wild salmon have occupied earth’s rivers and oceans for millions of years. For countless generations they have sustained human communities and cultures around the world. However, climate change and unsustainable development now threaten the very existence of these resilient species and the massive benefits they provide to people and ecosystems.
Salmon School highlights the messages of danger and hope symbolized by these majestic species. Its reflective properties compel delegates to contemplate the damage humans have done—and are still doing—to the earth. At the same time, it inspires them to make decisions that will change human behaviour and restore the earth to a safe habitat for all species, including salmon.
THE HOPE
A better future is possible. It’s unfolding today, just outside the walls of the United Nations Climate Summit (COP26) in Glasgow. For over 100 years industrial pollution drove salmon out of the River Clyde. But local community organizations, working with businesses and government, cleaned up the river. And wild salmon have returned.
It’s a story being played out by dozens of communities and organizations working to restore wild salmon across the world.
By using salmon as a vehicle for change, we can save all species. Including ourselves.
JOIN THE SCHOOL
Salmon School is a unique human ecosystem made up of diverse stakeholders all working in concert to ensure wild salmon and the rivers they call home are here and healthy for generations to come. We’re actively seeking politicians, philanthropists, NGOs, educators, and Indigenous people concerned about our salmon to join Salmon School and help us advance this important work.
