Divergently Together by AlanJames Burns

Research Overview:

‘Divergently Together’ is a socially-engaged creative climate action project led by Artist AlanJames Burns that supports a fair and just transition to a sustainable future. It challenges stigma by showing that the disability community is a vital voice and an underutilised source of expertise within the wider climate change conversation. This community holds essential wisdom that our society urgently needs at this time of climate emergency–resilience, problem-solving, specialist knowledge and creative ways of thinking. However, disabled people are still often excluded from climate action and decision-making. By creating empowering shared experiences, the project amplifies disabled voices and demonstrates their vital role in shaping climate policy, innovation, and collective action.

Research Context:

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges we face today, and it affects disabled people more than others. Many disabled people do not have access to clear and accessible information. They may be at greater risk during extreme weather events. Some people are also more affected by heat because of the side effects of medication. Disabled people often have limited access to funding for climate action projects. These are examples of eco-ableism that disabled people regularly experience.

Methodology:

• Collaborative workshops
• Foraging for sensory stimuli 
• Nature informed design
• Neurodivergent exploration - deep dive, hyper focus, network connecting, biodiversity is neurodiversity
   

Key Collaborators:

• Creative Ireland
• Research Ireland
• Cavan County Council
• Fermanagh & Omagh District Council
• UNESCO Global Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark 
   

Research Outputs:

• ‘Unmasking Nature Foraging For Senses’ outdoor event at UNESCO Global Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark - September 2024
• Accessible Communications Workshop aimed at climate policy makers - October 2024
• Unmasking Nature Sensory Burrow at Codema’s Decarbonising Dublin Summit, Aviva Stadium - October 2024
• Unmasking Nature Sensory Burrow at Creative Ireland, Share Island Conference, Croke Park - November 2024
• Upcoming, Unmasking Nature exhibition at Beta Fest 2026
• Digital publications available on divergentlytogether.com
   

Further Information:

divergentlytogether.com