Visualizing Conservation

• Sid Cohen, Art, University of Delaware

• Aaron Terry, Art, University of Delaware

My work this summer has aimed to gather a deeper understanding of the ideas and processes of conservation in South Africa in hopes to share that knowledge with the public. Through my time as a volunteer at the Selati Game Reserve Research Center, I have been able to study and observe first-hand the ties between humans and the natural world. The impact that humans have on our planet has dramatically altered the natural inner workings of the environment. From climate change to poaching and deforestation, the human impact has not gone unnoticed for the animals that call South Africa home. My artwork is meant to educate the public on the various topics that I have studied during my time volunteering at Selati.
My process began through an observational lens, capturing everything I saw in the world around me with my camera. Working with the research team at Selati gave me the opportunity to learn about conservation from individuals who have spent their entire careers dedicated to conservation and preserving the natural world. Their lessons gave me a unique perspective on the work that is being done to protect endangered species on the reserve like rhinos and cheetahs who are facing devastating population decline. This gave me the chance to write down as much information as I could during our busy days on the game reserve.  I wanted my writing and artwork to not only reference the impact that humans have on the environment, but also discuss the natural inner workings of the South African ecosystem. By gaining a better understanding of the species that live in South Africa, we can more easily address the conversational needs of the environment while also educating the public about how they can do their part to protect the wildlife that call South Africa home.