A Curatorial Perspective on Two Objects
These two works laid the methodological foundations for a work of art being a research project concerned with understanding complex ecosystems (such as lagoons and watersheds) as well as regenerative agriculture, water usage, and the reality of accelerating climate change. The Harrisons’ work helps the viewer discover the extent of state and federal agricultural subsidies that reinforce intensive irrigated farming in California’s Central Valley for maximum corporate profits. These works made during the 1970s have even stronger resonance today as we grapple with prolonged droughts and increasingly severe wildfires. The Harrisons’ research and findings present an argument for reductions in irrigated farming, advancements in water recycling, and improvements in outreach and public participation in setting water policy.
La Jolla Historical Society
780 Prospect Street, La Jolla
WED-SUN:12pm-4pm
MON-TUE:CLOSED
Discussion Questions
- The exhibition broadly explores the dimensions of aesthetic agency and what it means for an artist to work in the domains of science, urban planning, design, and policy development. The exhibition highlights the work of Helen and Newton Harrison.
- What does an artist bring to those tasks that differs from the perspective and methods of environmental and social scientists as well as engineers working in such fields?
- How can artists and scientists together help in the process of mitigation of species, creation of succession ecosystems, and reorganization of human settlements?
- How can art and science sustain the planet while also retaining our advanced level of culture and technology?
- The audience is invited to reflect on the innovative ways in which ecological artists can discover new strategies and methodologies to build a dynamic eco-consciousness; on how to revitalize the environmental movement today and to create a powerful moment, and to form new alliances with politicians and policy makers, the people with the real power to make decisions that affect our environmental future.
Bibliographic References
