Promoting Young People’s Ecosocial Participation Through Socially Engaged Art and a New Materialist Approach

Abstract Climate change causes eco-anxiety among young people globally. New approaches are needed to address their well-being. This article discusses a socially engaged art process organized by the On the Frontline of the Climate Crisis research project and the Sosped Foundation in Tampere, Finland, during the summer of 2024. The art process utilizes an art-based action research methodology with reflective analysis, grounded in an ecocultural sustainability orientation. The article explores how socially engaged art and a new materialist approach can promote young people’s ecosocial participation and support them in expressing and processing their eco-anxiety and other difficult eco-emotions. Observations are made about the development of these activities and their impacts, and the broader potential of socially engaged art is discussed. It is pointed out that intra-action with materials and various forms of participation can support young people in coping with difficult eco-emotions. A trusting environment requires effort from facilitators.