Imaging the Arctic

Communicating Climate Science through Art

Inspiring stewardship for the Arctic and our global environment through a collection of stories and powerful imagery based on field art and science.

University of Washington scientist Dr. Kristin Laidre and I are collaborating to inspire stewardship and awareness for the Arctic. Following the tradition of artists working with early naturalists, I joined Dr. Laidre in West Greenland to complement her research with field sketches and paintings. Together we are creating an interdisciplinary collection of stories about the Arctic landscape, animals, and culture. The project will be shared through presentations, workshops, and exhibited at the Nordic Heritage Museum in Seattle December 12th—February 22nd, 2015.

Niaqornat Sunrise, 11" x 30" watercolor and gouache — Niaqornat Sunrise, 11″ x 30″ watercolor and gouache

Based out of the small settlements of Niaqornat (pop <60) and Kullorsuaq (pop. <500), Dr. Laidre and colleagues collected data on the movements and behavior of narwhals and polar bears. These iconic species are highly adapted to the extreme Arctic environment and vulnerable to climate change. I worked alongside the scientists to document their research and the surrounding environment through ink and watercolor sketches, as well as multimedia recordings. Read dispatches from the field and if you’d like to learn more about the region and Greenlandic culture, I highly recommend the new documentary, Village at the End of the World.