noticing natural phenomena unfolding in urban and built environments an inquiry-based art practice with on-the-ground action and online documentation
VIEW THE COMPLETE OPEN PHENOLOGY ARCHIVE at openphenology.org WHAT IS PHENOLOGY? Phenology is the scientific study of periodic biological phenomena, such as flowering, breeding, and migration, in relation to climatic conditions. Phenology records can help scientists understand plant and animal responses to climate change. ABOUT OPEN PHENOLOGY: Open Phenology began with the intent to deploy phenology as a lens to witness and understand outdoor experiences in everyday life. What developed was an action- and inquiry-based practice of observing and chronicling natural phenomena around the Walker Art Center’s campus. The project's watchword, "WITNESS :: CHANGE :: TOGETHER," speaks to my intention to positively transform the way we perceive our environment. By focusing on ephemeral biological phenomena, I hope to encourage a reverent stewardship for nature by re-enchanting our relationship with it.
OPEN PHENOLOGY IN PRACTICE:
looking carefully and dedicating time to a specific environment
writing notes, taking photos, recording videos, etc.
describing a sequence of events from a specific point of view
asking questions, synthesizing information, and asking more questions
speculating, postulating, and hypothesizing
seeking answers from experts and peers, online and in books
