London, April 2026
On 10 and 11 April 2026, the World Academy of Art and Science (WAAS), in collaboration with The War on Climate (TWOC), Artistic PNK, The Bridge, and One Young World, hosted the live launch of The Planetary Arts Movement – X-ART at the Royal Over-Seas League in London.
Framed under the inspiring theme “The World We Want – Art for Planet and Peace”, the event marked the beginning of a vibrant global cultural movement that positions the arts as a strategic and transformative force to address today’s most pressing opportunities for change: climate action, peacebuilding, and social cohesion.
The launch built on an international online convening held earlier in 2026 and brought together artists, policymakers, scientists, and cultural leaders to activate a shared vision. The goal was to harness art not only as an expression but also as a powerful catalyst for planetary transformation.
The agenda at a glance
The programme featured an exhibition showcasing over 100 artists from around the world, including remarkable children’s works from Lebanon, Uruguay, and China, alongside deeply meaningful initiatives such as the Kids Guernica Peace Banners from London and Hiroshima.
A dynamic central panel discussion — led by representatives such as Ella Robertson McKay, Managing Director of OneYoung World — explored how the arts can serve as a unifying and energising force in our interconnected world. Contributors included leading voices in music, environmental activism, youth diplomacy, and cultural strategy, reflecting the movement’s richly interdisciplinary spirit.
The event also featured live performances, eco-poetry readings, and a collaborative exhibition curated by Colin Sugden, alongside celebrated contributions from internationally recognised voices, including Chris Packham and Martyn Ware.
The second day focused on partnerships, engagement, and future initiatives, including new international exhibitions, collaborative artistic programmes, and the development of a growing global network of Planetary Arts ambassadors.
On the 11th April, the Peace Violin was also launched in Japan- marking the beginning of a global tour of the only surviving violin from Hiroshima – a live video was shown at the Planetary Arts launch in London, and aims to spread peace around the world:
The Planetary Arts Manifesto
At the heart of the initiative is the Planetary Arts Manifesto, a call to action inviting individuals and institutions worldwide to engage with the arts as a tool for diplomacy, community building, and systemic change. Attendees and global audiences were encouraged to sign the manifesto, participate in future collaborations, and champion artistic initiatives that advance peace and sustainability.
Dr Jo Nurse, Chair of the Planetary Arts Committee at WAAS and lead organiser of the initiative, described the movement as:
“A renaissance in the arts, one that reconnects creativity with responsibility, and imagination with action. The Planetary Arts Movement is about bringing people together across disciplines, cultures, and generations to co-create the world we want.”
The Planetary Arts Movement established itself not as a single event, but as an evolving platform — one that aligns creativity with planetary needs and inspires a bold new culture of peace.
All of the videos displayed during the event can be found here.
Join the Movement
Be part of co-shaping the Planetary Arts Movement—a global initiative transforming collective consciousness through creativity, culture, and connection.
Sign up for the Planetary Arts Manifesto!
We are building an Alliance of like-minded and supportive members.
Join us and become an institutional partner, network coordinator, ambassador, or just an enthusiastic co-creator!
Contact: Dr Jo Nurse
Chair, Planetary Arts Committee
World Academy of Art and Science
drjonurse@gmail.com
Further Information:
https://worldacademy.org/arts/
https://worldacademy.org/arts-
