26–28.09.2023
Reading the Ocean

Bauhaus of the Seas Sails: A Celebration of Ocean Literacy in Oeiras

The town of Oeiras, Portugal, is set to host the three-day “Reading the Ocean” event by the Bauhaus of the Sea Sails project from September 26 to 28, 2023. Coordinated by the Interactive Technologies Institute and Instituto Superior Técnico, this unique project aims to bring together Elisa Ferreira, European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms and representatives from various institutions within the consortium for a series of work sessions, workshops, and public programs. At its heart, this event revolves around Ocean Literacy, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preserving our oceans.

The event begins at the Templo da Poesia, a stunning lighthouse-shaped building atop Parque dos Poetas. On the first day, an invitation-only program will feature consortium partner representatives, Sea Forum participants, Ocean Ambassadors, and special guests. The day is dedicated to discussions, presentations, and conversations on Ocean Literacy from a situated perspective. Notable highlights include a video address by Elisa Ferreira, European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, and a talk by Manuel Pinto de Abreu, Oceanographer and Sharing Institute curator. The day will conclude with a performance titled “Yes, We Can Live.”

The second day combines consortium partner work sessions at the Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência with an open public event. In the afternoon, consortium representatives and the general audience will interact with the Eden X installation and embark on a guided tour of Oeiras, exploring its history, biodiversity, and landscape. The walks will provide unique perspectives on the city’s connection to maritime heritage and aquatic ecosystems. That evening, the public is invited to the environmental documentary “Mar Urbano Lisboa” screening at the Auditório Municipal Eunice Muñoz. This documentary, directed by José Vieira Mendes and Ricardo Gomes, explores the Tagus River Estuary’s importance, marine biodiversity, and impact on the Lisbon metropolitan area. Following the screening, a talk moderated by biologist Marco Frade Ferreira will delve deeper into the film’s themes and the urgency of preserving the River Tagus.

The last day will commence early at the Vasco da Gama Aquarium, where consortium partner representatives will discuss the project’s development and prospects. This collaborative effort aims to shape the future of Ocean Literacy initiatives and research.

“Reading the Ocean” is not just an event; it’s a celebration of Ocean Literacy, a reminder of our responsibilities towards the oceans, and an opportunity to explore Oeiras’s rich maritime history and ecological treasures. With its blend of informative sessions, interactive experiences, and public engagement, this event promises to leave a lasting impact on the participants and the community, reinforcing the commitment to protect our oceans and promote sustainability for future generations.

Agenda

September 26 (invitation-only)
Templo da Poesia

17:00 Opening 
17:30-19:30 Ocean Literacy
20:00-20:30 Performance Yes, We Can Live
20:30-22:00 Dinner – Verso Rooftop Lounge, Templo da Poesia

September 27
Instituto Gulbenkian Ciência (IGC)

08:30-09:00 Welcome and Coffee Break
09:00-12:00 Workshops and Presentations
12:00-13:00 Lunch | Instituto Gulbenkian Ciência (IGC)
13:00-16:00 Workshops and Presentations
16:00-16:30 Refreshments – Jardim do Palácio Marquês de Pombal, Oeiras
16:30-19:00 A Walk to the Sea (Public event. More info and registrations)
21:30-23:00 Documentary Mar Urbano Lisboa (Public event. More information and registrations)

September 28
Aquário Vasco da Gama (AVG), Algés

08:30-09:00 Welcome and Coffee Break
09:00-12:00 Workshops and Presentations
12:00-13:00 Lunch
13:00-16:00 Workshops and Presentations
16:00-16:30 Coffee Break
16:30-20:00 Workshops and Presentations
20:30-22:00 Dinner