Artist-in-Residence
Hosted by the Clemmons Family Farm in Charlotte, Vermont, the UnderWATER, UnderGROUND artist residency program used visual art, music, dance, and storytelling to explore the rich cultural and natural history of the Lake Champlain Basin. Inspired by the discovery of a beluga whale fossil buried beneath what was once the Champlain Sea, the project connected geological history with the stories of the Underground Railroad, the Great Migration, and the experiences of African Americans who made Vermont their home. The project advanced the Lake Champlain Basin Program’s goals of fostering thriving communities and engaging the public in learning about the region’s diverse cultural heritage.
Through the framework of “Submerge, Immerse, and Emerge,” participating artists researched the history of the Champlain Basin, visited cultural and historical sites, and collaborated to create original works inspired by their discoveries. Their work spanned photography, video, textiles, collage, digital art, music, dance, and spoken word, weaving together stories of place, migration, resilience, and identity. The residency embraced the Ghanaian concept of Sankofa, encouraging participants to look to the past to better understand the present and shape the future.
Throughout the project, artists shared their creative process with the public through exhibitions, workshops, performances, artist talks, and educational programs at Clemmons Family Farm and Charlotte Central School. Community members of all ages participated in “Breach-Outreach” events that invited them to explore local history, contribute to creative activities, and engage with themes of environmental and cultural stewardship. Artist journals and works-in-progress served as tools for conversation, education, and community collaboration.
The project strengthened public appreciation for the interconnected history of the Lake Champlain Basin while elevating stories that have often been overlooked. By combining historical research with creative expression, UnderWATER, UnderGROUND created meaningful opportunities for learning, dialogue, and cultural connection, culminating in performances that reached broad audiences, including a music-and-dance performance at Clemmons Family Farm that was filmed by Good Morning America in early 2026.