Art Review: The Haunting of Estuaries by Deborah Jack
Denver — In her latest exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art, artist Deborah Jack challenges viewers to reconsider their relationship with water. Entitled “the haunting of estuaries…an (after)math of confluence,” Jack’s installation invites us to explore the complex interplay between water, climate change, and colonial history.
The centerpiece of the exhibition is Jack’s six-channel video installation, “a sea desalts, creeping in the collapse… in the expanse…a rhizome looks for reason… whispers an elegy instead” (2024). Commissioned for Prospect.6 in New Orleans, this immersive experience transports viewers to coastal landscapes in Maine, Brazil, St. Maarten, and Louisiana. Through a combination of film and slide show techniques, Jack captures the beauty and devastation of these ecotones — areas where freshwater meets saltwater, creating unique and fragile ecosystems.
The musical score, composed by the Diaphanous Ensemble, adds another layer of depth to the installation. With haunting melodies and dissonant chords, the soundtrack enhances the emotional impact of Jack’s visuals. As viewers navigate the multi-channel setup, they are forced to confront the harsh realities of climate change and environmental degradation.
One striking aspect of Jack’s work is her use of juxtaposition. By superimposing black and white images on top of moving video footage, she creates a sense of disorientation and unease. Scenes of churning ocean water are interspersed with tranquil shots of mangrove trees, highlighting the fragile balance of these coastal ecosystems.
In a recent interview, Jack reflected on the dual nature of salt — a substance that can both corrode and preserve. This metaphor resonates throughout her installation, as she exposes the corrosive effects of climate change while preserving these landscapes as a poignant elegy. As our planet faces increasing weather disasters and rising sea levels, Jack’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for environmental action.
“The haunting of estuaries…an (after)math of confluence” will be on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver through February 15. Curated by Miranda Lash, this exhibition offers a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between nature, culture, and climate change. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Deborah Jack’s evocative and timely work.
