Inspired by root systems and mycorrhizal networks, both existing and emergent, this year’s theme invites us to explore the intelligences of nature that ground us amid crises and navigate us toward hope. May these expansive systems permeating the world remind us that we are part of something bigger, a sentiment that finds itself in the depths of ancestral wisdom, spiritual traditions, and place-based relationships. We will wrestle with several critical questions this year: How do roots inspire us in the midst of crises, whether they be environmental, within our communities, or in our own personal, spiritual lives? How can our ancestral and unfolding place-based relations tether us to hope? How do emerging roots allow us to move forward through intercommunions of persons, communities, religions, spiritualities, and scientific practices? And ultimately, we ask, what if everything we need is right below our feet?

The conference will feature over 13 artistic works, spotlight 37 student presenters from universities around the world, and hold four participatory workshops.

Please Note: If you plan on attending both the Thursday Opening Reception and Friday Conference, please register for both ticket types. Sessions during the conference are subject photography and video recording. Please contact our organizing team with questions: gcre@yale.edu