In The Story of More, the 2021–22 One Book One Northwestern selection, author Hope Jahren implores us to join the fight against climate change and illuminates some of the factors that led us to a crisis point. Jahren details how innovations in agriculture, farming, transportation, and the energy sector have led to greater efficiencies, but have also led to losses in biodiversity, extreme weather patterns, and rising oceans. This selection of artworks —drawings, photographs, and prints— from The Block’s collection were inspired by the book, address humans’ impact on the planet, and offer a critique of common practices that edge us closer to a climate emergency.
Americans disproportionately consume more food and expend more energy than the vast majority of people on the planet. Because the United States causes the most damage, individual decisions can have a great impact on the health of the environment. As Jahren points out, it is a compelling reason why Americans should act now. The majority of works here are produced by artists based in the United States, but they examine our relationship to the environment through different historical lenses and from different perspectives.
We invite members of the Northwestern community and beyond to use these works as opportunities to connect to the themes of the text, whether they are used for private contemplation or as a springboard in discussion with others. We are happy to provide a shareable pdf booklet for teaching and engagement. You can schedule a class visit to discuss these works in person in our study center by contacting Essi Rönkkö at essi.ronkko@northwestern.edu.
