“For me it was important to bring back this project … and to put it around [the library] so that we can say ‘libraries are a safe space for science, libraries are a safe space for the community to have these types of conversations’ [even when the rest of the world] is still trying to deny the science facts or trying to distract us from the actions that we need to take.”
— TetraPAKMAN, on Wake Up!
Wake Up! is a community-generated, multi-year project focusing on the climate crisis. TetraPAKMAN says his aim is to merge social commentary, carbon emissions data, and collective action. Utilizing the monthly data provided by The Keeling Curve, a daily record of global atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration maintained by Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, TetraPAKMAN invites community members to paint the month, year, and the coinciding CO2 emissions in parts per million (ppm) directly onto repurposed bed sheets. He says these unique canvases have generated dynamic conversations about privilege and its place within the climate crisis.
The Data:
The Keeling Curve data
TetraPAKMAN began working the CO2 emission data into his art practice in 2015 and later began capturing the numbers and dates in this format in 2019, in alignment with the Global Climate Strike. Previous iterations of Wake Up! include temporary installations at locations such as the Madison Capitol lawn, Communication Madison exterior, UW–Madison School of Education Gallery and most recently as an exhibition at the Social Justice Center.
The History of Wake Up!
As part of his residency at Central Library, TetraPAKMAN has worked with the public over the last seven months to paint an additional 21 sheets during open studio hours, workshops, and other special events, while discussing personal responsibility, privilege, and collective climate action with patrons of all ages.
The Bubbler Residency:
TetraPAKMAN’s residency is made possible thanks to The Friends of Madison Public Library.
