MILWAUKEE WATER COMMONS
WE ARE WATER
A rich, inter-arts cultural celebration that brings people together
from all parts of the city to honor our shared waters
Video Credits to Joel Peregrine
We Are Water is more than just an event; it is a profound reminder of water's essential role in taking care of us and the recognition of our duty to safeguard its existence. Now more than ever, this connection to one another and the water is needed as we strive to be united as a community.
Scenes from We Are Water through the years
Past themes have included:
We are Water Healers
The Great Lakes are Our Home
Native Names for Our Waters
Somos Agua: We Are Water
We have featured a Native American water ceremony, music and singing, interpretive dance, drumming, poetry, improvisation and original spoken word performance. Collaborative performers bring their own work and ideas to the event and audience participation is included.
The evening capstone to this experience is the community creation of a large interactive art installation, an illuminated image of the Great Lakes or written word in the sand. All attendees take part in creating this, placing over 300 cups of water with submersible lights in a drawing in the sand.
We Are Water continues to be a very moving and singular experience. Participants have told us they were fully engaged and touched by participating in this beautiful, collaborative creation and felt a deep sense of connection to both the community and our shared waters.
All are welcome!