Award Date
May 2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies
First Committee Member
Julian Kilker
Second Committee Member
David Nourse
Third Committee Member
Benjamin Burroughs
Fourth Committee Member
Michael Green
Number of Pages
64
Abstract
Lake Mead, the largest man-made water project in the nation and a prolific source of electricity, irrigation, and recreation for much of the western population, is currently experiencing a drastic transformation. Amid the ongoing water crisis parching the west, the once overflowing reservoir is consistently shrinking, descending into depths historically uncharted.While serving as a bleak demonstration of climate change’s effects, the body of water is simultaneously assuming an alternative role that may be less apparent to the public. As water levels decline, Lake Mead is actively metamorphosing into a “Living Museum”, by gradually unveiling previously submerged artifacts. As a result, it is displaying pieces of the local and regional history that were formerly concealed by its watery domain. Lake Mead’s evolving identity has inspired further investigation into what the lake has been storing since its inception nearly a century ago. This creative thesis project adopts the format of an audio documentary, delving into the supplementary persona of Lake Mead and its surrounding areas. By weaving together an interdisciplinary collection of expertise surrounding Lake Mead, this endeavor will work to explore the concealed histories, cultural nuances, and the mysterious artifacts sprouting from the waters. By providing Lake Mead with an alternative narrative, this thesis aims to present a creative and compelling interpretation through which to observe the diminishing reservoir. In doing so, it provides a divergence from the predominant storyline shaped by the climate crisis.
Keywords
Climate; Lake Mead; Las Vegas; Living; Museum
Disciplines
Climate | Creative Writing | History
Degree Grantor
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Language
English
Repository Citation
Salveter, Marley, "Lake Mead: A Living Museum" (2024). UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones. 5078.
http://dx.doi.org/10.34917/37650904
Rights
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