The Chattanooga Art + Climate Project is a unique initiative from ArtsBuild, spearheaded by Briana Jones, that brings together creative minds to address one of the most pressing issues of our time—climate change. This project, supported by the Lyndhurst Foundation, highlights the intersection of art and environmental activism, which is especially important in Chattanooga, where the natural beauty of the land is foundational to the city’s spirit.
At the heart of this project is a dynamic and creative cohort that includes New York-based artist Adam Frelin, alongside three talented local artists: Andy Ramirez, Aubrey Charnell, Chase Guajardo.
Each artist has contributed a temporary artwork that will be showcased in a series of exhibits on the Rossville Blvd. Corridor.
Adam Frelin’s contribution, Rising Action, is a public art experience that delves into the natural forces of heat and flooding—two critical issues exacerbated by our changing climate. The centerpiece of Rising Action features two towering inflatable sculptures that symbolize the energy of water and fire. Accompanying these sculptures is a sound score that integrates the voices of community members, adding a layer of local resonance to the installation.
Check out these interesting cultural events where the Art + Climate Project will pop up around Chattanooga!
Chatt Town Cool Down
8/23: (Evening, 6 - 9 p.m.) & 8/24: (Day, 12 - 4 p.m.)
The inflatables will first appear at Chattanooga’s end-of-summer riverside Celebration at Ross’s Landing. In addition to the inflatables, this family-friendly event will feature a foam slide, a cold plunge, climbing, slacklines, water games, disc golf, and the infamous Paddle Down Parade.
For The Culture Festival
9/21 | 12 - 6 p.m.
Experience the inflatables as they add a unique artistic element to this celebration of culture. For The Culture Festival celebrates South Chattanooga’s rich history and culture with performances, food, vendors, and family-friendly activities. It takes place at 618 W. 38th Street, City of Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Fire Up the Fields
10/19 | 5 - 10 p.m.
Witness the inflatables in motion at this event, where they’ll bring dynamic energy to the Sculpture Fields at Montague Park during their annual sculpture burn.
Art + Climate Parade
10/20 | Time + Location TBA
All Art + Climate projects will be represented at this parade. The inflatables will be in motion, adding a moving tribute to the themes of the project.
Main x 24
12/7
As the year wraps up, the inflatables will be part of this vibrant 24-hour event, closing out the series of engagements with a final showcase. is a 24-hour long festival celebrating Main Street and the surrounding Southside, held every December in Chattanooga since 2007.
