Reservoir: What the Water Knows

Reservoirs nourish and energize our ever-expanding cities. They also safeguard us from extreme weather events and other disasters. As our need for water grows, we have found a myriad of ways to capture, divert, mix and contain free-flowing waters–and store it away. Compactly designed for human use, reservoirs often seem like closed systems. Yet, the water within retains traces of the journey it has made to arrive there–deviated streams, dried river beds, drowned cliffs and submerged towns–profoundly altering habitats and ecosystems and lives in ways we may never fully know.

Reservoir: What the Water Knows presents new and freshly rendered works by six noted local artists that probe our complicated relationship with water. The artists look deeply into how climate warming is impacting us–both from the outside in and the inside out–and inquire: how are our watery bodies registering and responding to these shifts? Ultimately, they remind us of our interdependence in nature and prompt us to contemplate our inner and outer reserves as we move forward.

Participating Artists

A+J Art+Design/ Ann Hirsch and Jeremy Angier

Reservoir also showcases a site-specific installation of soundscapes and sound acousmatic works by a group of Northeastern University music students guided by Pr. Hubert Ho. From inviting us to follow the journey of underground water rise to the surface, to letting us meditate near calm waters, and thrusting us into a storm, these aesthetically eclectic pieces respond to the exhibit in myriad ways.

This exhibition will be open in the Overlook Gallery during the museum’s open hours. Please note that occasionally on weekdays the Overlook Gallery may be reserved for private functions. We welcome you to call ahead at (617) 277-0065 to check if the exhibition will be available to view during your visit.

Featured Image: Flood, Nathaniel Price, 2023/23″x23″x23″ Hydrostone, measuring yardsticks, glue, steel. Photo by Yorgos Efthymiadis.

Participate in the Exhibition by filling out the Water Questionnaire.

View the full Exhibition Brochure.