inquisitive and bold

activated and engaged

local and global

on the fringes and at the core

now and long-term

contemplative and hands-on

sharing and learning

Global in nature, national in scope and local in action, the Burrinja Climate Change Biennale provides a platform for creative and critical responses to one of the most pressing topics of our time.

At the centre of the BCCB is its non-acquisitive Award Exhibition, which provides a space for artists to engage creatively and imaginatively with aspects of climate change. The exhibition invites and encourages the collaboration of science and arts, of critical thought and creative practice. Applications for artists to contribute work to this exhibition are now open.

Burrinja has held two previous BCCBs, showcasing creative responses to climate change and related issues. Previous prize winners include Jessie Yvette-Journoud Ryan (2017) and Joy Serwylo (2015). This summer, BCCB THE HEAT IS ON will expand across the Yarra Ranges, with opportunities for artists and communities to activate sites and venues, in addition to the keynote exhibition at Burrinja. This year, the Climate Change Biennale is delivered by Burrinja in partnership with Yarra Ranges Council and Eastern Regional Libraries.

From the scientific to the fantastic, the cultural to the creative, the BCCB will bring together diverse voices, practices and perspectives to interrogate and speculate on the future we so desperately need. The BCCB is designed to offer both a reflective perspective (looking back) and a beacon of hope (looking forward). Whilst we cannot undo the past, as actively engaged creative citizens living within ecologies in crisis it is our responsibility to re-imagine a future that does no more harm.

For more information, to be inspired, and to spark your ideas, please see the BCCB curatorial statement below: