New Artist in Residence joins the DCU Water Institute
Vanessa, a passionate long-distance swimmer and visual artist based in Dublin, brings a unique and deeply creative perspective to her work, drawing inspiration from the waters that surround us. Known for her expansive and multi-layered projects, Vanessa’s art often explores the beauty, mystery, and environmental concerns related to water.
Speaking about her artistic process, Vanessa shares:
"I begin my art projects by swimming in the particular body of water I’m going to explore. I talk with local swimmers, people passing by, and boat users. I’m interested in the history, politics, biodiversity, science, and heritage of that watery space, as well as the personal stories connected to it. In this way, the water and its surrounding community guide the work — it kind of goes with the flow. I’ve been calling this process ‘Psychoswimography’: a watery drifting and reimagining of place."
Vanessa’s approach to art-making is deeply immersive, connecting her creative practice with the natural world in a way that encourages reflection on our personal relationship with water and the environment.
As the new Artist in Residence, Vanessa will collaborate closely with the DCU Water Institute to develop new work focused on the waters surrounding Dublin Bay and explore our human connection to these vital ecosystems. One of the key areas she will explore, along with the Water Institute, is the re-introduction of native oysters to Dublin Bay. This project will blend artistic exploration with scientific inquiry, opening up new avenues for understanding both the environmental significance and cultural importance of these aquatic habitats.
Professor Fiona Regan, Director of DCU Water Institute, shared her excitement about this collaboration:
“Vanessa’s unique ability to weave art and science together brings a fresh and imaginative perspective to the research we’re doing at the DCU Water Institute. Her work will not only highlight the environmental challenges we face but also help the community connect with these important issues in a meaningful and creative way.”
The DCU Water Institute is at the forefront of tackling some of the world’s most pressing water-related challenges. With expertise spanning science, engineering, computing, and social sciences, the Institute works to drive transformative change through cutting-edge research and real-world impact, with a particular focus on global water issues.
Vanessa Daws is a Dublin-based long-distance swimmer and visual artist whose work engages with the environment, history, and personal narratives connected to water. Her artistic practice is rooted in exploration and connection, focusing on the cultural and ecological significance of water bodies. Through her innovative project Psychoswimography, Vanessa offers a fresh perspective on the ways we interact with and understand the natural world.