Ecological Awareness and Action in South Florida at PAMM

On April 25, 2024, Xavier Cortada had the honor of moderating the panel “Ecological Awareness and Action in South Florida” at the “Spirit in the Land” symposium, held at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). This symposium, part of the broader Earth Month celebration and linked to PAMM’s “Spirit in the Land” exhibition, featured discussions that showcased how local artists and ecologists are integrating their work into the fight against climate change and environmental degradation.

During his panel session, Xavier brought together some of South Florida’s most influential figures in ecology and art, including Kate Fleming from the Bridge Initiative, Dr. Steve Davis of The Everglades Foundation, Sister Robin Haines Merrill of Love The Everglades Movement, and Dr. Liv Williamson of Revive & Restore. Each panelist shared insightful strategies and successes from their respective organizations, highlighting innovative approaches to ecological conservation and restoration. Xavier, renowned for his eco-art projects like “The Underwater,” contributed to the discussion by detailing how this particular initiative engages communities to recognize and act upon the impacts of sea-level rise in Florida. His role as a facilitator underscored the significant interplay between artistic expression and environmental activism, illustrating how art can be a powerful catalyst for community awareness and action in addressing ecological challenges.