POSTCARDS FOR THE PLANET

We’re living in a moment in time that is being referred to as the “anthropocene”—an epoch where human activity is substantially impacting all of the earth’s ecosystems quite adversely. The effects of the anthropocene range from accelerated global warming to the acidification of our oceans, and the disappearance of forests on a global scale. More locally, the effects of the anthropocene might look like finding oil amongst the shore stones or noticing water overflowing from the creek more persistent than ever before. As the natural environment changes around us, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by eco grief, and begin to mourn the futures we were promised. Not all hope is not lost though.

The truth is: we can pull together and prepare for the future so we can protect and defend the things we love. Our small actions CAN make a difference.

Postcards for the Planet 💌 invites creatives, environmentalists, solarpunks + everyday people alike to collectively imagine the Symbioscene—an emergent geologic era where humans live in reciprocity with the earth—while taking action to nurture sustainable shifts in our reality today.

Anyone can participate. By creating a Postcards for the Planet, we hope that you’ll feel more HOPEFUL, and INSPIRED to create sustainable change during Earth month and all-year round through tending to your relationship to yourself, others + the planet.

After all… “No one is too small to make a difference.”

-Greta Thunberg

MAKE A POSTCARD

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone participate in Postcards for the Planet?

YES! Anyone can participate in the Postcards for the Planet Project. Though we particularly encourage folks ages 16 – 29 to invite their friends and family to imagine the Symbioscene together.

Are there any benefits to participating in the Postcards for the Planet project?

All submissions sent to postcardsfortheplanet@gmail.com will be included in on this webpage and select physical postcards mailed to: East End Arts (St. Matthew’s Clubhouse, 450 Broadview Avenue, Toronto, ON M4K 2N3) will be showcased in April 2023.

If sharing your vision for the symbioscene is not of interest to you, no worries! You can keep your postcard as a reminder of your commitment to tend to your relationship to yourself, others + the planet. 😀

I don’t have a 4 x 6 postcard. Can I still participate?

YES! You can still make a postcard even if you don’t have 4 x 6 inch postcard paper. You can use a larger piece of paper (i.e. 8 ½ x 11, which is standard printer paper size) and cut it into a 4 x 6 postcard using a ruler or measuring tape. We recommend using a thicker cardstock if possible. Alternatively, we can send you a sheet of watercolour postcard paper.

If you require further support or accommodations to participate in the Postcards for the Planet project, please send us an email at postcardsfortheplanet@gmail.com with the subject heading “Postcards for the Planet – Support”. We are able to offer a limited number of supply kits to those who need them on a first-come, first-served basis.

I’d prefer not to write or draw my postcard. Can I still participate?

YES! You can still make a Postcard for the Planet by submitting a voicenote of your letter for the earth and a photo that represents your vision for the Symbiocene.

What should I write in my submission email to Postcards for the Planet?

To have your work featured in the online showcase of postcards you can email postcardsfortheplanet@gmail.com or #postcardsfortheplanet on Instagram. If you choose to email your submission, include the following subject heading “Postcards for the Planet – Submission”.

In the body of your email, copy and paste the following:

Hello!

Attached is my submission to Postcards for the Planet. I would like my work to be credited as follows [insert preferred name or if you’d like your card to remain anonymous].

I consent to having my work showcased online for promotional purposes or materials tied to the Postcards for the Planet project without compensation. I understand that my work may be shared on various media platforms as a record of this special collaborative project. I still retain the rights to my artwork, and can revoke my consent to have the work showcased at any time.

Thanks,

[Insert your name here]

Be sure to include an image or scan/recording of the FRONT and BACK of your Postcard for the Planet.

I have another question that’s not listed here. Who should I contact?

If you have further questions regarding the Postcards for the Planet project reach out to Sylvie the Artist at postcardsfortheplanet@gmail.com with the subject heading “Postcards for the Planet – Question”.

Postcards for the Planet was initially conceptualized as a part of Sylvie the Artist’s residency with Youth Challenge International, which was made possible through the FUTURES/forward community-engaged arts mentorship program, funded by the Canada Council for the Arts, BC Arts Council, and Judith Marcuse Projects.

FUTURES/forward is an initiative of the International Centre of Art for Social Change (ICASC) and Judith Marcuse Projects (JMP), an arts organization with a 40+ year history in Canada and abroad and a pioneer in the field of art for social change (ASC).

Special thanks to Laura Barron, Executive Director of Instruments of Change for her mentorship, as well as community partners, East End Arts and The RE place for their generous contributions and support. 💚

Much love! 💕🙏🏻