The Eco Showboat and the river communities of Limerick: When art and science weave new territories

Abstract

The Eco Showboat project, led by artists Anne Cleary and Denis Connolly in 2022 and 2023, in collaboration with scientists, local artists, and communities, promoted activist artistic actions advocating for an ecological approach to urban and non-urban territories traversed by Ireland’s waterways. By navigating rivers, lakes, and canals and engaging with diverse territories, the solar-powered boat Mayfly connected actions carried out along the water, and aimed to weave links between aquatic environments, the territories concerned, and the practices and visions of local populations. This article focuses on the Limerick stage of the journey and its broader territory, where relationships between river communities and the river itself emerged through meaningful engagement—not only in collaborative artistic processes but also in ecological awareness initiatives. These efforts highlighted the role of local inhabitants in the sustainable management of rivers and in their enhanced integration into the urban fabric. The actions carried out by Eco Showboat illustrate how artistic activism, supported by science, strengthens the connections between the river, the city, and its inhabitants. It consolidates the emotional bond with the fluvial environment while also raising awareness of environmental issues and encouraging more responsible practices. These initiatives also contribute to the regeneration of rivers, foster interaction between the river and the city, and support a broader vision of the city as an integral part of a larger territorial ecosystem.