The Power of Climate Art: Nicole Kelner on Turning Watercolours into Climate Action

In this episode of Doing Hope, I speak with New York–based climate artist Nicole Kelner, known for her playful and powerful watercolour infographics that make climate and clean energy topics accessible, memorable, and even joyful. Nicole shares how she transitioned from operations in ed-tech and climate startups to becoming a full-time artist — a shift sparked by a 100-day art challenge that changed her life.Nicole’s story is a compelling blend of creativity, purpose, and quiet courage — showing how art can be a Trojan horse for truth and a tool for climate action.🎨 In this episode, Nicole shares with us:* How a 100-day watercolour challenge led her from climate ops to full-time climate art.* Why keeping things simple and playful can make climate facts easier to absorb — and act on.* The surprising ripple effects of her art, like inspiring someone to start composting from a single illustration.* How her Climate Art 101 course has sparked hundreds of new artworks — and a global creative community.* A treasure trove of resources she built to help others find their place in the climate space — no art degree required."I always told myself: even if just one person learns something or takes action, that’s worth it."👉🏼 Connect with Nicole* 🎨 Join her next Climate Art 101 cohort* Nicole’s website* Crowdsourced database: So You Want To Work On Climate* More of her crowdsourced sheets🌿 More resources to inspire your climate journey:The Climate Action Venn Diagram by Dr Ayana Elizabeth Johnson is a great way to help you create ideas how to work on climate. Download here.I regularly support people in completing this diagram for their unique strengths, skills and life circumstances. If you could benefit from identifying your strengths and what needs doing in the world, reach out anytime to explore how a powerful career coaching session can support you.💭 Question for You, the Listener:What’s one creative way you could help someone understand a complex problem — and maybe even inspire action? Could it be a doodle, a story, a quiet conversation?Let us know how you are doing hope. 💚🙋 Want to connect with me or share feedback?* Email: [email protected]* Website: claudiageratz.com* LinkedIn: @claudiageratz📍 Nominate a guest for the podcast: Submit your idea here🎵 Music by Alberto Gariglio Instagram | YouTube This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit positiveclimatecareers.substack.com

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