Fostering empathy for endangered animals through creative writing and drawing workshops

Biodiversity is declining, with up to one million species at risk of extinction.

During World Insect Week (22–28 June), we’re highlighting research exploring how creativity can help children better understand insects and biodiversity loss.

Impact funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council, managed by Cardiff University, has enabled this project to develop creative writing and drawing workshops to foster eco-empathy for insects and other endangered species.

Led by Dr Christina Thatcher and Dr Lisa El Refaie, the project worked with partners including National Museum Cardiff, Buglife and local schools to develop resources aligned with the new Curriculum for Wales.

Many endangered animals are overlooked. This project used creative writing and drawing to increase awareness of less visible species. Metaphor-led activities encouraged participants to engage imaginatively with these species, fostering eco-empathy and a deeper understanding of biodiversity loss.

Researchers worked with the Natural History collections at National Museum Cardiff to design and deliver creative workshops, combining close observation, writing and drawing. These activities were developed into a practical toolkit. The project then secured additional IAA funding to expand this work into primary schools, adapting the approach to focus on local insect species and working with teachers and partners across Cardiff.

IAA funding enabled the development and testing of a creative approach to engaging audiences with biodiversity loss, in partnership with National Museum Cardiff.

Crucially, it supported a pathway from pilot activity to further funding, allowing the project to expand into schools and work with partners including the Cardiff Council Curriculum Team, Cardiff University’s Widening Participation Team and the conservation charity Buglife. This has supported the development of resources aligned with the new Curriculum for Wales.

You can find further information on the project from The Natural Sciences Collections Association: How to Foster Empathy with Endangered Animals: Developing a Creative Writing and Drawing Workshop Toolkit | NatSCA

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts about their project, please contact them at: Dr Christina Thatcher ([email protected]) or Dr Lisa El Refaie ([email protected]), School of English, Communication and Philosophy, Cardiff University, UK.