Chasing the Curlew's Call

Climate change can often feel overwhelming to think about and the science can only go so far in engaging with people across society, including the youth. Chasing the Curlew's Call is a story that has been created to explore a different approach to sharing knowledge and increasing engagement regarding the topic of climate change. The story was developed as a result of workshop discussions with diverse audience members with over 150 guests, including community artists, teachers, interdisciplinary academics, council members, students, digital storytellers and prominent figures such as Professor John O'Halloran and former UN Irish Ambassador David Donoghue. The story builds on participant desire for new narratives rooted in place, history, memory, relatable character lives and human-nonhuman connections.

Chasing the Curlew's Call is a story in two parts: (1) a graphic novel and (2) a closing animation. It follows young Lou as she searches with her grandfather for the disappearing curlew. Her grandfather shares knowledge about the bird and how changes in weather patterns have impacted the curlew's life in the area they have always called home. Connections are built between generations of the curlew and generations of Lou's family tree. As the story progresses, Lou understands and cares more about the curlew and wants to help them. Her grandfather encourages her "to tell people about their magic". Three months later, Lou delivers an animated presentation at her school about the curlew bird and how climate change is impacting its survival. She explains the ripple effects of changing weather patterns and invites the reader to see – in a grounded way – why we should care, and why we should help.