Solarpunk started out as a genre of imaginative writing – but the SolarPunk aesthetic and movement is now more than science fiction, although, as with Disney going SolarPunk recently, all these different creative worlds can combine in startling and stimulating ways.

Above all, then, the SolarPunk movement is a visual manifestation of hope for the future – whether it’ i’s inspiring a new architectural approach or celebrating change through design. 

And so, across the creative world, artists are increasingly focusing their work on the climate and how we can imagine our way out of dead-ends. And many are getting very involved, promoting art and ‘artivism’ for climate change – and seeking transformation through solarpunk.

If creative types are looking for tools to help design the future, there is the promise of AI of course. Here’s an example recently shared online of an AI Art Prompt, which produced a Solar Punk-style house with whimsical details. 

But perhaps this would be more suitable for Sidmouth – with its Art Nouveau aesthetic – truly showing Solarpunk as a Visionary Movement:

Art Nouveau enters the picture as the cool grandma of Solarpunk style. It was big in the 20th century and was all about blending organic, flowy lines inspired by plants and flowers into everything – from buildings to funky wallpaper. It was the OG in blurring the lines between fine art and everyday design. But then came mass production and world wars, and art nouveau went out of style.

Fast forward to today, Solarpunks are giving art nouveau a digital-age makeover and grandma’s vintage style is back in fashion. Designers are getting creative with eco-friendly materials like mushroom leather while tipping their hats to the art nouveau vibe. Solarpunk festivals? Think art nouveau meets sci-fi with epic stage designs. With less time chained to work, Solarpunks are ready to flex their creative muscles, diving into community gardening, and unleashing their inner artists.

…