How should scholars and artists represent ideas, realities, and possible futures that the public considers catastrophic? In what ways are academic and creative representations of catastrophe similar, and where do they diverge? How do those who communicate such difficult truths deal with their own despair in the process? The interdisciplinary group of scholars, artists, and practitioners at this virtual workshop share an interest in thinking about how the visual and performance arts might offer new pathways for understanding these complex and often overwhelming challenges. The discussion centered on themes inspired by (but not confined to) our February 26 Director's Lecture, featuring a performance by The Crossing at the David Rubenstein Forum.

For further background on these themes, please visit The Chicago Cli-Fi Library, a gallery exhibition on view at the Neubauer Collegium February 22 – June 11.