Interview with Jimbo Noels, Climate Artist (Dordrecht NL, 1987)
Interviewer: Good morning! Thank you for joining us today. Could you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?
JN: Good morning, and thank you for having me. My name is Jimbo Noels, and I’m a contemporary visual artist with a passion for documenting the impact of the climate crisis. I’ve been working in the field of photography for over a decade now, exploring various genres, but it was my deep concern for the environment and the urgent need for action that drew me towards focusing my lens on climate-related issues.
Interviewer: That’s wonderful! How did you become interested in combining art with environmental issues?
JN: My interest in the environment and art has always been intertwined. Growing up, I spent a lot of time in nature, and witnessing its beauty and fragility left a profound impact on me. As I developed my photography skills, I realized the power of images to convey complex ideas and emotions. It became clear to me that I could merge my passion for both art and the environment to create impactful visual narratives.
Interviewer: Can you describe some of the themes or concepts you explore in your photographs?
JN: Certainly! One prevalent theme is the juxtaposition between nature and human intervention. I aim to portray the contrast between untouched natural landscapes and human activities that contribute to environmental degradation. By highlighting this dichotomy, I hope to prompt viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the environment.
Interviewer: Your work sounds incredibly thought-provoking. Could you explain why you incorporate collage and painting techniques into your photographs?
JN: Certainly. I believe that climate change is a complex and multifaceted issue that deserves a multidimensional visual representation. By combining collage and painting techniques with photography, I aim to create layered and textured works that evoke emotional responses and convey the urgency of the subject.
Interviewer: Your process sounds fascinating and undoubtedly results in captivating artworks. What message or emotions do you aim to convey to your audience through this unique visual language?
JN: The collaged elements and the layers of information represent the complexities and interconnectedness of climate change. I want viewers to confront the overwhelming nature of the crisis and understand the scientific data behind it. Simultaneously, the expressive painting techniques I use are meant to elicit a visceral response—a sense of urgency, loss, or even hope. I’m always striving to find the right balance, to share stories that go beyond mere exploitation and “disaster porn.” By capturing the beauty of our planet and its fragile ecosystems, I hope to remind viewers of what we stand to lose if we don’t take immediate action.
Interviewer: It sounds like you’re creating a powerful visual narrative. Could you share any memorable experiences or projects that have shaped your perspective on the climate crisis?
JN: One project that profoundly impacted me was documenting the effects of rising sea levels on small island communities. I spent several weeks in the Pacific Islands, sharing the daily struggles faced by these communities as they dealt with increased coastal erosion and the loss of their homes and livelihoods. The residents were deeply connected to their land, their traditions, and their history. Witnessing their pain and the immense emotional toll of leaving their ancestral homes was a deeply moving experience. It reinforced the urgency of our actions and the need for greater global solidarity in tackling the climate crisis.
Another memorable experience was photographing the melting glaciers in the Arctic. Standing on the vast ice sheets, watching chunks of ice breaking off and plunging into the ocean, was a stark reminder of the irreversible changes occurring in our world. These experiences have motivated me to continue working on this subject.
Additionally, I have documented the devastating effects of deforestation in the Amazon rainforest and other areas, highlighting the loss of biodiversity and the displacement of indigenous communities. Through a series of works, I aimed to catch the beauty of the rainforest while showcasing the scars left by human activity. To make the project more immersive, I also integrated multimedia elements, such as audio recordings of interviews and ambient sounds from the forest. This allowed viewers to engage with the project on a deeper level, hearing the voices of those directly affected by deforestation. My hope was to spark conversations about the importance of protecting our natural resources and to amplify the voices of those fighting to preserve the Amazon. Through these projects, I aim to highlight the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the need for sustainable practices to protect our planet.
Interviewer: That’s incredibly impactful. Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring photographers who wish to use their craft to address pressing global issues such as the climate crisis?
JN: My advice would be to find your unique voice and approach. The climate crisis is a vast and multifaceted issue, and there are countless stories waiting to be told. Take the time to educate yourself about the subject, understand the science behind climate change, and explore different perspectives.
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself to capture the essence of the climate crisis in a way that resonates with you. Your photography can be a powerful tool for change, so use it to raise awareness, inspire action, and encourage conversations.
Finally, remember that your work as a photographer doesn’t end with taking pictures. Collaborate with organizations, activists, and communities working towards climate solutions. Your images can support their efforts and amplify their messages. Together, we can create a collective impact and drive positive change.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. Your dedication to using photography as a tool for change is truly inspiring. We wish you continued success in your future endeavors.
JN: Thanks again for having me. It was my pleasure to discuss my work and the importance of addressing the climate crisis through art. Let’s hope that our collective efforts lead to a more sustainable and resilient world for future generations.
