Exploring the Erie Canal: Art, Ecology & Imagination

The Medina Triennial Hub presents two special programs that celebrate the Erie Canal as both infrastructure and inspiration—exploring the ecological, cultural, and artistic legacy of the Erie Canal as it enters its third century.

Presented in partnership with the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and the New York State Canal Corporation, these events bring together artists, scholars, and community leaders to reflect on how water, landscape, and creativity shape life across
New York State.

Friday, November 7 
2:30–4:00 PM
Panel: Reimagining the Erie Canal for Its Third Century
Moderated by Shannon Mattern, with Gabrielle Barone, Rebecca Hughes, Dave Mellen,
and Charlie Torres. This public discussion considers the Erie Canal as a living
system—fluid, adaptive, and continually reshaped through community care. How can
infrastructure become a site of renewal rather than decay?
4–5 PM — Meet-and-Greet at the Hub

Attendees can connect with the panelists and NYPA experts, including Rybarczyk, Senior Hydrologist for Waterways, and Platt, Senior Project Engineer supporting New York State Canal Corporation infrastructure projects. 

Saturday, November 8
12:30–2:00 PM — Panel: Artists on the Erie Canal
Artists Judit German-Heins, Alon Koppel, and Clara Riedlinger join Angelyn
Chandler (NYS Canal Corporation) and Natalie Stetson (Erie Canal Museum) to
discuss how art can reimagine the Erie Canal’s layered histories and landscapes.
2:00–4:00 PM — Workshop: Bodies of Water / Bodies in Water
Led by artist Sarah Cameron Sunde, this immersive session invites participants to
connect with the Canal through movement, writing, and reflection. Limited to 30
participants; no experience required.
Please RSVP for Sarah Cameron Sunde’s workshop to info@medinatriennial.org

Presented by: Medina Triennial • NY Power Authority • NYS Canal Corporation