An artistic piece in Liverpool is highlighting the dangers of climate change and fossil fuels.
Coalescence is an artistic piece by award-winning designer Paul Cocksedge which is currently displayed in Liverpool Anglican cathedral.
The piece is both spectacular as well as thought-provoking, aiming to highlight the growing issue of climate change.
It features more than half a tonne of coal, the same amount of coal needed to power a 200W lightbulb.
Coalescence will be hanging from the ceiling of the cathedral from February 9 until March 12.
Speaking on the piece, Paul said: “This is a simple idea which has grown into a real educational journey.
“I’ve become really close to the material, hand-drilling every piece of coal to create this artwork.”
Elisa Nocente, curator for Liverpool Anglican Cathedral described the importance of Coalescence.
Elisa said: “This piece is really important as it highlights the dangers of climate change.
“The piece represents the amount of coal needed to power a 200W lightbulb, which I think people will find shocking.
“It is an important piece of artwork, that is visually beautiful with a good message.”
The World Meteorological Organisation, (WMO), last October, revealed the biggest increase in methane concentrations since measurements began.
Figures show that this is the biggest methane year-on-year increase from 2021 to 2022.
WMO Secretary-General Professor, Petteri Taalas stressed the importance of the latest figures.
Prof. Taalas said: “WMO’s Greenhouse Gas bulletin shows, the challenge and necessity of urgent action to cut harmful emissions and prevent rising temperatures.
“The continuing rise in concentrations of the main-heat trapping gases, shows we are heading in the wrong direction.”
The report states that methane has a relatively short life span, of under ten years, so the damage done is reversible.
Prof. Taalas said: “We need to transform our whole way of life.
“The needed changes are economically affordable and technically possible. Time is running out”
Coalescence hopes to highlight to the public, and in particular to those in power, the severity of the situation.
The WMO report shows how those in power are failing, so the timing of a piece like Coalescence could not be better.
The Dean of Liverpool, The Very Revd Dr. Sue Jones, has spoken about the event and explained its importance.
She said: “Liverpool Cathedral is a space where people can find a sense of wonder as they connect with artworks like Coalescence.
“We are encouraging people to experience the remarkable beauty of Coalescence as they consider the issues explored by the piece.”
Paul explained the enjoyment he had in making the piece.
He said: “It represents energy, and the challenges society is facing around where our energy comes from and what it costs.
“Showing this in Liverpool Cathedral, in this year, felt very timely.”
For more information on the artist Paul Cocksedge please follow the link.
If you are concerned about our planet’s environment and would like to view the reports yourself click here to find out more.
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