Understanding the Role of Environmental Art and Humanities Methods in Deepening Sense of Place in Rural Upstate New York

This study examines the value and impact of integrating the arts, humanities, and sciences as it relates to place, particularly in rural areas of Upstate, NY. Our preliminary results show incorporating methods in environmental arts and humanities into community-engaged place-based classes in Upstate, NY deepens place attachment and sense of place which may ultimately lead to increased environmental stewardship. It will lay the groundwork for future research exploring how place-based field courses in courses in art and science can lead to lasting environmental stewardship, mental health benefits, and a renewed passion for students’ academic pursuits.