Using Public Art to Illustrate Heat | Sirena Pearl | TEDxVCU
Sirena Pearl, an undergraduate studying painting and printmaking, explores the urban heat island effect in Richmond, VA through her own mural. She utilizes the tools at her disposal along with her passion in art to bring environmental issues to light. Sirena Pearl is a junior at VCUarts, pursuing a BFA in Painting and Printmaking with a minor in Animation. She merges digital and traditional media, incorporating 3D modeling, projection mapping, and augmented reality into her painting practice.Her research on the urban heat island effect in Richmond—visualized through a mural atop the Bowe Street parking deck—utilizes thermal infrared imagery and interactive data visualization to make environmental issues more accessible. Passionate about art as a tool for advocacy, Sirena uses visual storytelling to foster communication, challenge perceptions, and spark critical dialogue. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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