Science and Art Collide in Biddeford: UNE Community Storytelling Event Highlights the Saco River
Bringing Science and Art Together in Biddeford
On December 3, the historic Pepperell Mill in Biddeford hosted a unique gathering that united scientists, artists, historians, and community members. The event, titled Science Collider: The Story of the Saco, showcased how data, history, and personal narratives can illuminate the river that has shaped the region for centuries.
For residents and students alike, the evening offered a clear example of how interdisciplinary collaboration can strengthen local identity and spark new ideas. Learn more about UNE’s community storytelling initiatives and discover how you can participate in future projects.
The Saco River: A Shared Heritage
The Saco River is more than a waterway; it is a living archive of Indigenous stewardship, industrial growth, and ecological change. By pairing scientific watershed studies with oral histories, the event highlighted the river’s role in shaping Biddeford’s cultural and economic landscape.
Community members shared stories of fishing, mill work, and the river’s seasonal rhythms. These narratives helped attendees understand how the river’s health directly impacts local businesses, recreation, and quality of life.
Community Voices: From Indigenous Stories to Modern Innovation
Local artists and musicians performed pieces inspired by the river, while Indigenous partners offered perspectives on stewardship and sustainability. The combination of art and science created a dialogue that resonated with a diverse audience, demonstrating that creative expression and empirical research can coexist and reinforce one another.
How UNE’s Fellowship Programs Foster Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Undergraduate and graduate students at UNE have access to fellowship programs that encourage community engagement and cross‑disciplinary work. Two notable programs were highlighted during the event:
Sustainability Fellowship: Listening First
Miranda Carrabba, a Marine Affairs major, began her project by gathering over 700 pieces of community feedback. The fellowship’s emphasis on listening helped her identify the Saco River as a central theme in Biddeford’s identity. Students learn to translate community concerns into research questions and actionable plans.
Shaw Innovation Fellowship: Turning Ideas into Action
After the Sustainability Fellowship, Carrabba applied for the Shaw Innovation Fellowship, which supports students in designing solutions to planetary and human health challenges. With mentorship from UNE faculty and partnership with Heart of Biddeford, she expanded her project into a public event that blended art, science, and storytelling.
Key Takeaways for Local Residents and Students
1. Engage with local experts. Attend workshops, talks, and exhibitions that bring together scientists, artists, and historians.
2. Share your story. Whether through writing, photography, or performance, your perspective can enrich community understanding of shared resources.
3. Support interdisciplinary initiatives. Volunteer, donate, or collaborate on projects that bridge gaps between disciplines.
Leverage Community Feedback for Future Projects
Collecting community input is a powerful tool for identifying priorities and building trust. Use surveys, town halls, or informal conversations to gather insights that can shape research agendas and public programming.
Engage with Local Artists and Scientists
Biddeford’s vibrant arts scene and UNE’s research community offer opportunities for collaboration. Consider co‑creating installations, hosting joint exhibitions, or developing educational programs that showcase both scientific findings and artistic interpretations.
Next Steps: Get Involved and Support
For residents interested in future storytelling events, visit Heart of Biddeford’s website to learn about upcoming projects and volunteer opportunities.
Students and faculty looking to partner with the community can explore UNE’s fellowship programs and discover how to apply.
Share your own experiences or ideas in the comments below, and help keep the conversation about the Saco River and Biddeford’s future alive.
Ready to take the next step? Submit your application today and become part of a community that values science, art, and shared storytelling.
