The Air We Share is a new creative project with a focus on air quality - involving a fascinating mix of science, creativity and community action.
The initial phase of the project involves collecting detailed air quality data in the Westside neighbourhood. This will be done through an array of fixed air quality monitors. People can see the air quality data being gathered by going online to the Purple Air website.
Acting as ‘citizen scientists’, project participants may also have an opportunity to use a portable monitor to measure air quality on one of their regular journeys - for example walking from home to work or strolling in the park. This scientific information will help to inform three artistic residencies which will begin later this year.
The residencies will involve different artists working with groups of people to create artistic ‘responses’ to the issue of air quality in their community, relating to their personal health and the climate for example.
The Air We Share project will be officially launched at Westside Arts Festival which runs from July 9 to 13, 2024. During the festival, members of the community will be able to take part in an introductory workshop and also register their interest in participating in the artistic residencies.
The Air We Share project is being coordinated by Galway City Council and is funded by Creative Ireland.
