ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) – It’s somewhat unusual for people to think of art and science as coexisting, but that’s just what one local artist is working on—and an international program is trying to support.

Devan Ruple is a St. Louis local and works as a scientist but it’s her artwork that has caught some people’s eye. Ruple has been reusing old frames, selecting natives plants and incorporating paintings into her artwork.

Her artwork, which highlights local vegetation and the beauty of plants, got her into contact with ClimArts. The organization works to connect scientists and artists to describe environmental challenges or topics, often complex, in story centered ways.

The goal, ClimArts organizers tell First Alert 4, is to create compelling narrative artwork that can help people understand learn about the multiple environmental challenges across the globe.

They help support artists of all kinds in providing environmental messages.

“We offer bespoke climate programs, intensive workshops and a flagship fellowship to train creative individuals in climate storytelling. Our unique incubator program gives a direct opportunity for one-on-one collaboration between an artist and a climate expert,” the ClimArts website states.

Ruple has been involved with gardening, plant raising and environmental topics for some time, and found her art was a way to connect with people about the plants she loved so much — and the bugs that pollinate them — she loves them too.

ClimArts hopes that by combing environmental data with impactful stories, people will have a better grasp on how and why these issues affect humans across the globe.

The founder, Neelambaree, became interested in educating her son about the environment and found it difficult to explain many of the challenges. With a background in dance and corporate leadership, she worked with other professionals to launch ClimArts with the goal of story-focused environment coverage.

“The conclusion was clear: Storytelling was missing, and visions of a desirable future were missing,” the ClimArts website states.

Several docufilms created about the ClimArts collaborations have been accepted to film festivals, and special time is dedicated to getting the science right in the artistic works.

Devan hopes that people in St. Louis will come to recognize the important role native plants play in ecosystem health—and even in floodwater management. She hopes that by producing these pieces she can help spread the message of creating less material, and raising more plants.

Avery Martinez covers water, ag & the environment for First Alert 4. He is also a Report for America corps member, as well as a member of the Mississippi River Basin Ag & Water Desk. His coverage goes from corn farms to hunting concerns, and local water rates to buffalo health.

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