ISLES ARTS INITIATIVE from the Curators Perspective
ELIZABETH DEVLIN
In 2006 , I learned there were 34 islands off Boston ’ s shore . And at the time , Long Wharf , which serves as the city ’ s gateway to the islands , was a mere five minute walk from my old North End apartment . With a soul crushing day job in sales that was at odds with my innate passion for the arts , the islands became my sanctuary . Even now , I still enjoy climbing to the top deck of the ferry and watching as the ivory towers of the financial district fade into the distance while the lush shores and beckoning beaches of the islands erupt into view .
My inaugural visit to Georges Island was a memorable one . Unlike the traditionally sanitized sites I encountered on mainland explorations , encumbered by stanchions and finger-wagging signage , I was surprised to discover that you are free to roam wherever you please on the islands ; over 41 acres of natural landscape and built environment are at your disposal . And at the center of Georges sits Fort Warren , an awe inspiring pentagonal fortification that defended the Harbor from 1861 through the end of WWII . As I traversed the fort ’ s seemingly endless tunnels , caverns , ruins , and secret passageways that are only uncovered by flashlight , I was re-introduced to the childlike part of my spirit that was fueled by adventure , curiosity , and an insatiable desire to wander without reason .
Years later , older , slightly-wiser , and a master of juggling left brain days with right brain nights ( mornings and in-between times as well ), my fond island memories came rushing back as I had the fortunate opportunity to produce a summer long public arts initiative on the Boston Harbor Islands and in venues across the city which became known as the Isles Arts Initiative ( IAI ). The project unfolded in stages throughout the summer and incorporated visual , music , and performative elements that brought together the talents of over 70 regional
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