S.L.R.A.I.I.
Sea Level Rise Architectural Intervention Institute

The Sea Level Rise Architectural Intervention Institute (S.L.R.A.I.I.) was formed in 2018–as a collaboration between Laurencia Strauss and Jason Lazarus–in order to create awareness of sea level rise projection models in every day as well as formal/institutional spaces. The installations of future calendar years (in this case year 2118) and their corresponding installation height correlate with the height of predicted mean sea level corresponding to a range of climate change models. Data projection models are relational, not absolute. The height and speed with which we reach those data points are contingent on many factors, including whether we curb, maintain or increase our carbon emission levels.

At Mana Contemporary Miami in the 777 International Mall (141 E. Flagler St, downtown Miami, FL), S.L.R.A.I.I. has installed three sea level rise indicators for the year 2118. In one hundred years (year 2118), the elevations – 10’, 20’ and 30’ above mean sea level – are all possible scenarios. Upon entry to the mall off Flagler St, notice the 10’ mark a few inches above the mall’s street level tiles. Moving up the stairs to the second floor, find the 20’ mark on the right. On the stairs to the third floor, look to the left to see the 30’ mark.