The Role of Art and Arts-Based Participatory Research for Transformative Ocean Governance
In a recent webinar hosted by the Transformations Community, experts- Elisa Morgera, Dylan McGarry and Philile Mbatha from the One Ocean Hub (OOH) programme discussed how integrating arts and participatory research methods is transforming approaches to ocean governance. The session focused on the role of arts-based approaches in balancing the ecological, economic, social, and human rights aspects of transformative ocean governance. The event highlighted how artistic methods have contributed to fostering inclusivity and equity within ocean governance frameworks through knowledge co-production with South African coastal communities.
Recording
Elisa Morgera is a Professor of Global Environmental Law and Director of the One Ocean Hub at the University of Strathclyde, with expertise in human rights and ocean governance. In the webinar, she introduced the Hub’s vision and discussed how the arts were central to rethinking knowledge systems and advancing rights-based approaches to ocean governance.
Dylan McGarry is a Senior Researcher at the Environmental Learning Research Centre at Rhodes University and an artist known for integrating theater into legal and environmental justice advocacy. He explored in the webinar how the arts disrupt traditional knowledge hierarchies and foster legal innovations and social change in ocean governance.
Philile Mbatha is a researcher at the University of Cape Town, focusing on knowledge co-production with marginalized coastal communities, particularly women and youth. She shared insights in the webinar on how arts-based research has contributed to human rights perspectives in ocean governance, including the Mapping for Justice initiative.
Invitations
Engage with the One Ocean Hub
Support the One Ocean Hub’s Next Phase:
As the initial funding phase concludes, the One Ocean Hub seeks new partnerships and funding opportunities to expand its work on inclusive ocean governance. Connect with OOH to discuss collaboration and support ongoing projects.
Contribute to Our Arts-Based Research Initiatives:
Discover how Empatheatre and other arts-based methods are driving change. If you are a legal scholar, community organizer, or environmental advocate, consider reaching out to collaborate on arts and policy-driven projects.
Connect with TC at Upcoming Events
Attend the TC/ESG 2025:
Join us in August 2025 at Kruger National Park, South Africa, to dive deeper into arts-based methodologies, social justice, and sustainable ocean governance. Be part of discussions on how art can reshape governance at local and global levels. The Call for Proposals is open until 30th of November - submit your proposal soon! We also invite you to join TRAC as a reviewer to engage more deeply with the dialogue.
Explore the Department of Magic at Transformations Community:
Engage with this committee, dedicated to fostering creative and collaborative experiences that promote both inner and outer transformations. The Department of Magic organizes unique, interactive spaces at the conference, moving beyond traditional presentations to cultivate deep, experiential learning and engagement. Sign up to join this initiative.
Resources
Join the Next TC Dialogue
Information about the next Dialogue Series is coming soon! If you're interested in collaborating on
co-hosting a webinar with us, please reach out to Thomas at thomas@transformationscommunity.org