Disturbance: The Art and Ecology of Change

As a co-organizer and participant in Boot Camp, I am overwhelmed by the passion, insight, curiosity, and dedication that the artists and scientists brought forward. The Boot Camp was a packed few days of information exchange, vulnerable reflection, and relationship building.

From the start, during individual introductions, the title Disturbance was questioned with words like ‘perturbance’ and ‘stabilizing force’ suggested as better descriptors of fire in southwest ecosystems. Throughout our time together, we made cyanotype prints (Figure 3.) and charcoal markings, explored fire regimes and vapor pressure deficit and tree ring chronologies and climate impacts and different ways of knowing. We shared meals. We asked questions with straightforward answers and questions that require nuance. I am grateful to everyone who has been involved and will be in the months ahead.  

Social science and experience tell us that people don’t act based upon what they know, but rather what they care about. Art and science have different ways of presenting information and inviting care. By weaving the two, perhaps we can bring balance to the head and the heart. Perhaps we can tap into the emotive power of creativity to open knew dialogues, and promote forest stewardship, together. (Figure 4.) 

The Guild is excited to be a part of this effort with Paseo Project, a Taos-based arts nonprofit that transforms public space through immersive participatory art experiences, and Del Fuego, a community dialogue around the effects of wildfire on land, life, and community in northern New Mexico. We greatly appreciate the support of the Southwest Fire Science Consortium, Taos Soil and Water Conservation District, LOR Foundation, and Hotel Willa. 

Visit https://paseoproject.org/disturbance2026 to learn more about Disturbance, the participating artists and scientists, and stay informed of upcoming events.