The most successful HighWaterLine were those in which participants gathered well in advance. Artists and communities that devote at least six months of preparation experience deeper community engagement. This time and dedication allows for solid research to be conducted, identification of the right data for your region, securing the necessary permits, genuine engagement and acceptance from community members, and finally a thorough exploration and identification of different solutions that can be shared as the collective line is drawn.
We highly recommend beginning your research as soon as possible. The data will provide the information needed to determine the line that will be marked. You will also then be able to share what you learn, including maps, while you are out meeting people in the early stages of community …
While it is possible to do a HighWaterLine as an individual, collaborating with other people, starting with the creation of a core team, will result in a stronger and more robust project. Creating a team early on will help you conquer the diverse tasks needed to realize the project. There …
It’s also good to consider what might be happening around the date you want to realize your HighWaterLine. Having a timeline with space for planning and foresight allows you to place the demarcation of the line at an appropriate time. Some suggestions include: Choose a time of year which will …
Workshops are important for your core team and the community to collectively decide the path of the line, learn about solutions that can be shared with the greater community, and forging unity among the group drawing the line. Face to face meetings also create safe spaces for communicating difficult issues and …
This artwork is created in a public space, therefore, it may be necessary to secure permits where and when required, from the town, city or municipality to create the line. Although not required, it’s also helpful to inform key community leaders that you will be creating this art piece. In …
Well before you mark your actual HighWaterLine, it’s helpful to walk the potential route(s) you would like to demarcate. This will allow you to meet the people who live along the line as well as invite them to participate. It is also an opportunity to observe everything you will be …
Beginning the workshop series with one in which people share their personal stories with one another forges connectivity amongst core participants. For both Miami and Bristol, the first workshop that was held amongst core participants was sharing their stories via the Marshall Ganz method. These storytelling workshops built trust and …
In this workshop you will translate the scientific data into the actual route to be marked. Engaging community members in this workshop is critical in building consensus about the ultimate route you’ll be marking. Having a scientist participate in this workshop is helpful but not essential. At this workshop you …
The HighWaterLine has the potential to create a spark of awareness as you demarcate the line. For some, seeing places they cherish, whether it be their homes, places of worship or community centers threatened by flooding, can be startling and potentially depressing and debilitating. Optimize this unique window of education …
For Bristol, Isobel created an original workshop designed for children living in flood zones. Using very inexpensive materials, she constructed a fun interactive water artwork that allowed children to appreciate how water flows. This workshop also provided an opportunity to engage parents participating HighWaterLine who couldn’t attend the evening meetings …