"Unmetered time": An interview with artist and educator Conni McKenzie
For multi-disciplinary artist and educator Conni McKenzie, the Mojave Desert inspired feelings of community and helped process climate anxiety by reconnecting to nature. This spring, Conni brought her immersive experiences to local elementary students and adults alike through partnership with Mojave Desert Land Trust, and performed her piece “Borrowed” through BoxoPROJECTS at Black Rock Nature Center in Joshua Tree National Park.
In honor of BIPOC Mental Health Month, we spoke with Conni about dance, the importance of community, and the concept of ‘unmetered time’.
Dark skies and fault lines: Interactive education in the Mojave Desert
Experiential learning is central to the Mojave Desert Land Trust’s Desert Discovery Field Studies program. With screen time increasing and digital media constantly vying for our attention, providing opportunities for real-world, hands-on education is crucial. When students investigate and share their discoveries with others, they learn faster, understand better, and retain information for longer.
Joshua trees need bold action. So do we.
If you are reading these words, you probably have a relationship with Joshua trees. Some of you grew up among them and know them as family. Some of you moved to the desert later in life, at least in part, because of them. Or maybe some of you have never seen one in real life, and you hope to make your way to the Mojave to see their spiny branches warmed by the hot sun.