A warning to leaders at COP29: Artist highlights damage of air pollution

Artist Faig Ahmed’s ‘Black Whirl: A Warning to a Polluted World’ intertwines tradition, culture, and pressing climate concerns, inviting viewers to reflect on the impact of air pollution and the need for immediate action. Commissioned by Clean Air Fund, the installation at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan calls on governments to step up and prioritise making our air cleaner.

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‘Black Whirl: A Warning to a Polluted World’ is an installation of five handmade woollen carpets combined into a tall, unified piece. The black paint for this installation represents black carbon – also known as soot – a super pollutant that is emitted from industry, vehicles, agriculture and open burning. This super pollutant damages both climate and health, yet has received little global attention.

Black smoke painted in the style of Azerbaijani miniatures are rendered in soft, flowing lines on the surface of the carpets. These clouds of dark smog gather towards the top edge, darkening the carpet and emphasising the suffocating effects of air pollution on people and our planet.

In keeping with traditional carpets of the region, the design interweaves ancient Quba Piribedil carpet patterns with modern styles, symbolising the continuity of cultural heritage while reflecting the urgent pollution crisis of today. Ahmed underscores the interconnectedness of art, culture, and climate. The piece urges us to confront the consequences of our polluting actions on the environment and commit to creating a future where everyone breathes clean air.

Air pollution is a silent but pervasive force, harming our health, cutting lives short, and warming our planet. Art has a unique way of reaching people, stirring minds and hearts to make this often invisible issue impossible to ignore. As global leaders, industry professionals, and activists gather at Goals House, to discuss accelerating progress towards the climate goals, the Black Whirl installation will serve as a powerful reminder of what’s at stake and why urgent action on air pollution is needed now.

Jane Burston, CEO of Clean Air Fund