Art Practice Professors Jill Miller and Asma Kazmi Play Pivotal Role in $2 Million Climate Action Arts Network Initiative

January 7, 2025

A project funded by the University of California’s Multicampus Research Programs and Initiatives (MRPI) spotlights UC Berkeley's contribution in addressing critical global challenges through interdisciplinary innovation.

The UC Climate Action Arts Network (CAAN), awarded nearly $2 million, leverages art and design to inspire public engagement in climate resilience and sustainability. Berkeley's participation will be co-led by professors Jill Miller and Asma Kazmi, alongside collaborators across the UC system. This initiative unites creative placemaking and climate justice efforts across all 10 UC campuses.

CAAN builds on the success of the 2019 MPRI Placemaking Planning Grant and aims to align artistic programming with California’s Climate Adaptation Strategies. The network amplifies the voices of artists and researchers.

Professor Jill Miller, known for her innovative approach to social engagement through art, and Professor Asma Kazmi, whose work explores transnational themes and materiality, bring a unique depth of expertise to the project. Their contributions reinforce UC Berkeley’s position as a hub for collaborative, arts-driven responses to pressing environmental challenges.

This initiative also emphasizes workforce development, competitive fellowships, and partnerships with communities vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive approach to climate action.

As part of this collaboration, CAAN partners with esteemed faculty across the UC system, including Teddy Cruz and Fonna Forman (UC San Diego), Brett Snyder and Glenda Drew (UC Davis), Sarah Rosalena (UC Santa Barbara), Michelle (Latipa) Dizon (UC Riverside), Patricia Vergara and Jayson Beaster-Jones (UC Merced), and Juli Carson (UC Irvine).

“Our work underscores the transformative potential of art and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing climate change,” said Associate Professor Karolina Karlic, a co-lead of CAAN from UC Santa Cruz. “With contributors like Professors Miller and Kazmi, we are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change through creative engagement.”

This landmark project is a testament to the power of collaboration across UC campuses, demonstrating the essential role of the arts in addressing urgent global issues like climate breakdown.