photo+sphere is an innovative art/science event exploring how we see the environment and our role in determining the future. November 7–11, 2018 in Asheville, North Carolina, photo+sphere will offer an extraordinary opportunity for artists and scientists to work together creatively on one of the world's most important topics.

Since its origins, photography has supported and enhanced careful observation of the environment and helped shape our understanding of scientific research. At this critical juncture in earth’s history, photo+sphere will present nationally known speakers and panelists, dynamic art exhibitions, presentations, a film series, workshop and performance investigating the environment and the impact of human activity, both positive and negative, in the biosphere.

Photography has played a vital role in helping explore and understand our place in the world. Today, with questions of global sustainability pressing in from all sides, cultivating, encouraging and facilitating a dialog between art and science is imperative.
—Susan Patrice, Executive Director Makerscircle

To reach a broad and inclusive audience, photo+sphere will engage the creative and scientific communities, those interested in environmental conservation and preservation, green solutions and education, food and farming, outdoor activities, as well as high school and university students and diverse population groups.

Programming will feature photography and photo-media (video/film) and will be held at leading arts, science and environmental venues throughout Asheville and beyond, including: Art and Science in the Field (AS.IF) • Asheville Art Museum • Asheville Masonic Temple • Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS) • Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center • Blue Spiral 1 • Center for Craft • The Collider • DOT Editions • Makers Circle • Momentum Gallery • The Nature Conservancy • RAMP Studios • REVOLVE • Satellite Gallery • STEAM Studio • Tracey Morgan Gallery • Warren Wilson College • Western Carolina University • Window (re/presentation | re/production) • UNC Asheville

Art makes things that are invisible, implicit.
—Ben Twist, Carbon and Arts Management Consultant Researcher

Widely recognized as an arts destination, Asheville is also home to one of the world’s largest archives of climate data—the National Centers for Environmental Information–Asheville. Western North Carolina is a hub for climate research, science-based forest management, conservation, and a quality of life that reflects these efforts.

The Laurel of Asheville: Explore the Environment Through Photography and Photo-Media

MountainX: photo+sphere Pairs Art and Science

Asheville Made: Interview with Eric Baden

photo+sphere is the second in a series of events exploring the relationship of photography and photo-based media to issues of contemporary concern. The first event, photo+craft, took place in 2016 to critical and popular acclaim.