Art, Science, and Soul: The three pillars of WATERFRONTS

How can a painting help us understand marine biology? What does a community sculpture have to do with mental health? At first glance, the connection between socially-engaged arts, marine sciences, and mental healthcare might not seem obvious. However, the WATERFRONTS project is built on the very principle that these three fields are not just connected, but essential to one another in building resilient coastal communities.

Climate change is a complex, multifaceted crisis. It is an environmental issue, a social challenge, and a personal, emotional burden. To address it effectively, we need solutions that are just as multifaceted. This is where the innovative, three-pronged approach of WATERFRONTS comes in.

1. Socially-engaged arts: The voice of the community

Art provides a language that transcends data and policy papers. It allows communities to explore and express their lived experiences of climate change in a way that is both personal and universal. Within WATERFRONTS, socially-engaged art is not about creating objects for a gallery; it's about a process of co-creation. Artists will work directly with residents of Gothenburg, Lesvos, and Zadar to create artworks that are rooted in their stories, concerns, and hopes. This process fosters dialogue, strengthens community bonds, and empowers individuals to become active participants in shaping their own narratives.

2. Marine sciences: The foundation of understanding

To effectively address the challenges facing our waterfronts, we must first understand them. The project will connect artists and communities with marine scientists and climate experts. This collaboration ensures that the artistic responses are informed by scientific knowledge. It demystifies complex environmental issues, making them more tangible and accessible to the public. By grounding creative expression in scientific fact, WATERFRONTS bridges the gap between knowing and feeling, which is crucial for inspiring meaningful action.

3. Mental healthcare: The path to resilience

The psychological toll of climate change, or "eco-anxiety," is a growing concern, particularly for those on the frontlines of its effects. WATERFRONTS directly addresses this by integrating mental health considerations into all its activities. The project recognizes the therapeutic power of cultural participation and creative expression. By providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to process their emotions, share their anxieties, and connect with others, the project helps transform feelings of fear and helplessness into a sense of agency and empowerment. It’s about providing tools for emotional resilience, not just environmental resilience.

A new paradigm

By weaving together these three pillars—art, science, and soul—WATERFRONTS is pioneering a new, holistic model for climate action. It’s a model that recognizes the importance of data and the power of stories, the need for environmental stewardship and the necessity of personal well-being. It is through this interdisciplinary synergy that we can hope to build a future for our waterfronts that is not only sustainable but also culturally rich and emotionally vibrant.