The Issue: Montargis, like many urban centres in France, faces significant environmental challenges. Air pollution, primarily driven by transportation and industrial emissions, poses a major threat to public health and environmental quality. The city’s reliance on fossil fuels aggravates air quality concerns, contributing to respiratory illnesses and environmental conditions. Rapid urbanization has led to the loss of green spaces and natural habitats, compromising the city's environmental sustainability. Poor waste management practices add to the problem, resulting in waterway pollution and soil degradation.

The Mural: "Respiration" was created through a series of workshops organised as part of Youth Art for the Earth. Over three days, 30 students from Lycée Jeanette Verdier school collaborated with the artist to bring their vision to life. The mural represents a path to sustainability, showing a shift from a consumption-driven society at the bottom to vibrant, eco-friendly living above. It highlights different ways to get around and live sustainably, urging viewers to reflect on their carbon footprint and embrace eco-conscious behaviours. Situated in a social housing neighbourhood, the artwork seamlessly joins its surroundings, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the community.

Karolina Lukomski, Project Manager: “It’s more interesting to work with teenagers than adults because everything is fresh. Adults already have their pre-conceptions, they know how to get information, but maybe young people don’t know how to. Also, there are fewer ‘clichés’. It’s very interesting to communicate with younger people because they have enough material and understanding to exchange, and they have developed critical thinking. And they are very open-minded.”

Liaam, Workshop Participant: “Pollution and global warming are critical issues for me. In my daily life, I notice people littering without a second thought. To combat this, I prioritize recycling and opt for eco-friendly transportation like the bus or walking. I also engage my family and peers in discussions about environmental responsibility. Recently, I even presented on global warming in school. Art has shown me the power of conveying messages, making workshops like this invaluable for spreading awareness. My message for the future is simple: let's take care of our planet.”

These workshops and murals are made possible thanks to the generous support of the European Union’s Creative Europe Programme