This session highlights how artists play a critical role in disaster recovery and community healing amid the climate crisis. Focusing on the San Jose Climate Art Program, the session explores how cities, arts institutions, and culture bearers can collaborate to reduce the arts sector's carbon footprint while driving environmental resilience and innovation.

Attendees will learn practical strategies for engaging city departments, empowering artists as leaders, and building cross-sector collaborations to achieve shared sustainability goals. By aligning with San Jose's 2030 carbon neutrality goal, the program has launched initiatives like the Carbon Neutral Creative Network and Resilient Artist Fellowships, showcasing the arts as a catalyst for hope and change.

Panelists:

• Danielle Siembieda, Sr. Arts Manager, San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs
• Karen Rapp, Deputy Director, San Jose Museum of Art
• Ron Muriera, Arts Industry Support Director, San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs
• Devon Bella, Cultural Strategist in Residence, City of San Jose