ARCA

Arctic landscape, a mountain of ice taken from the water, where a small black surface of the earth is visible

Aialik Glacier, Alaska, 2026

Climate change is a significant issue that affects us all, especially those living in urban Arctic regions such as Fairbanks, Anchorage, Nome, Kirkenes, and Tromsø. The temperature is rising alarmingly, affecting the environment and the people who live there. However, there is hope, as these cities have diverse natures and cultures.

One approach that can help us tackle this challenge is biocultural heritage. It's about recognizing the close relationship between human cultures and the natural world. This approach can help us overcome the challenges posed by a rapidly changing planet.

Many Indigenous communities in urban Arctic regions have a wealth of knowledge about their environment that has been passed down through generations. This knowledge can be incredibly valuable in dealing with issues like climate change. In ARCA, people from different backgrounds—like scientists, artists, and activists—work together to use this knowledge to develop new ideas and solutions.

The goal is to empower these communities to have a greater say in decisions that affect them and collaborate with other groups to make meaningful changes. Ultimately, respecting and preserving this knowledge can create a better future for everyone, including those living in urban Arctic regions.

Events

Photograph of a screen displaying a video projection inside the atrium of a glass building.
Mulhouse

Power Struggle

La Kunsthalle

Winter biking in the Girdwood Valley on the Winner Creek Trail. Photo courtesy of Davin Holen.
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Anchorage

Co-Creative Community Workshop: Biocultural Heritage and Climate Adaptation in Arctic Cities

The Nave — Anchorage

The workshop in Anchorage will gather researchers, museum professionals, practitioners from the fields of education, urban planning, housing, transportation, and arts. It aims at engaging the local and Indigenous communities of Anchorage and the area in public discussions and in an art creation process addressing the role of natural and cultural heritage (with a focus on urban green spaces and infrastructure) in climate adaptation.

Image of the mural-making process on a yellow wall, featuring a photographic collage of images and typography unified by a flowing graphic form resembling water or a wave.
Fairbanks, United States

Fairbanks Biocultural Heritage Mural Creation

Fairbanks City Hall

A collaborative community mural project in Fairbanks led by Native artists Amber Webb, Lindsey Maynard, Colin Firmin Thomas, and Bethany Grant. The project brings together Indigenous knowledge, artistic practice, and community participation through public art. Organized by ARCA, the City of Fairbanks, Fairbanks Climate Action Coalition, Denakkanaaga, and Native Movement. Photo courtesy of Native Movement.

Next projects

Photograph with a kaleidoscopic effect showing people at an art exhibition opening.

re:location / memory / identity / migration / Nouvelle École de Paris

ART, MIGRATION AND GLOBALIZATION

The research project and exhibition series bringing together artists and researchers who have made Paris their new home. Echoing the legacy of the Nouvelle École de Paris, it explores memory, exile, and belonging, revealing how migration continues to reshape artistic practices, cultural narratives, and the city itself.

UXIL, aae, Fondation Hartung-Bergman, Cité des Arts, Institut ACTE, HISCA, FLAS