The town of Warren, in partnership with the Warren Arts and Cultural Commission (WACC) and Rhode Island-based arts organization the Avenue Concept, is raising awareness on the impacts of sea level rise while promoting the town’s arts culture. In 2022, Josie Morway, a self-taught artist and self-described climate activist, painted a mural on the storefront of 24 Child St. in downtown Warren. Morway was sent a copy of Rising – Dispatches from the New American Shore by Rhode Island-based author Elizabeth Rush, which provided much inspiration for this mural.

Along with the mural, the town’s Warren Arts Walkway displays semi-permanent structures only one door down from the painted storefront. The art, created by students from Mt. Hope High School and local artist Linda Megathlin, depicts the effects of sea level rise.

“We believe Warren is the perfect backdrop for such a beautiful and crucial campaign on climate change and sea level rise. We are excited the town continues to support such progressive initiatives,” says Erin DeThomas, board member in the Warren Arts and Cultural Commission. “We know public art can enrich an environment, but we are especially appreciative to be working with these incredible artists who are using their art to raise awareness and encourage civil discourse on such an important topic.”

-excerpted from Rhode Island Monthly article by Sophia Failla

-image by Michael Fortin, MHHS, class of 2022