This multi-modal project stems from the ground research of collecting, studying and digging into the histories of invasive plant species in Claremont, California. Restricting her investigation to vegetation classified as invasive by the California Invasive Species Advisory Committee, artist Jenny Yurshansky was able to determine which invasive species have infiltrated the local area. At its root the project investigates the distinction between native versus invasive species. The discourse surrounding a list of “invasive†or “alien†flora species has interesting and fruitful correlations to policies regarding immigration, multiculturalism and evolving ideas about national identities that are inherently tied to the identity of border cultures and specifically California, a location that has carried the name of a number of nations throughout the historical record. Learn about Yurshansky’s process and discoveries in this creative look at invasive species, on Wednesday, September 30 from 12:15 – 1 in the Hunnewell Building of the Arnold Arboretum (bring your lunch.)
Free – Register at my.arboretum.harvard.edu or call 617-384-5277.