Environmental Critical Zones:
Reading The Wrack Lines
2021

Through the lens of creative writing, Reading the Wrack Lines looks at local anthropogenic processes of climate change. Our shoreline in Southeastern Connecticut is changing due to stronger and more frequent storms, and the threat of sea level rise. Long Island Sound is seeing a decline of species, warming water temperatures, and changing ocean currents. This project engages our local community by amplifying voices through text-based generative video projections fostering climate awareness. Wrack Lines was projected on the University of Connecticut Avery Point lighthouse on Earth Day and in September, and the soft sculptural floor piece was on exhibit in the group show Fire and Ice at Connecticut College galleries from September through October. 

 

In this initiative, community participants observe, reflect, and are inspired by the environment. Through writing workshops and coastal site visits, participants respond to the changing climate, explore environmental themes, and consider solutions towards achieving environmental justice. 

 

Reading the Wrack Lines represents a unique, diverse and inclusive partnership of faculty, students, and student clubs at UCONN Avery Point, Connecticut College, Stonington High School, and The Williams School, as well as submissions from the general public. 

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The generative audio video work was created in collaboration with Bridget Baird and Brett Terry. Funding for this work was provided by Connecticut Sea Grant, University of Connecticut through a Development Award in 2021, and from the Ammerman Center for Arts and Technology Faculty Research Grant at Connecticut College.