How artist-designed shade structures are protecting vulnerable residents in US’s hottest city

Artist-Designed Shade Structures Protect Vulnerable Residents in Phoenix

The city of Phoenix, Arizona, the hottest city in the US, is combatting rising temperatures with a local initiative.

A recent installation, ¡Sombra! Experiments in Shade, features nine artist-designed shades in public spaces, including Cool down a notch: Reflections on Sunnyslope by Jessica Arias.

The shades are made with UV-resistant canvas and heat-reducing paints, resulting in a striking 48°F difference at one point.

As global temperatures increase, communities are facing life-threatening conditions, including heatstroke and burns, particularly affecting unhoused individuals.

Author's summary: Artist-designed shades combat Phoenix heat.

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The Art Newspaper The Art Newspaper — 2025-10-27

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