Steady

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DISCLAIMER

This blog was created for ENVS3000 W24, University of Guelph. 

The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the University of Guelph. 

The University of Guelph is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by this blog.

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Hi everyone!

Wow… I can’t believe this is the last blog of the year! It’s quite a bittersweet feeling but I’m excited to wrap up everything I’ve learned and explored throughout the course in this final post and dive into my true personal ethics as a nature interpreter. Here we go!

What are my personal beliefs? 

One of my main personal beliefs as a nature interpreter is sharing empathy and inclusivity through the belief in fostering and creating inclusive spaces where people from all backgrounds and learning abilities feel welcome to connect with and learn from the natural world. As someone who has spent hours volunteering at Kids Ability and has always shared a deep passion for helping people with a disability whether that be physical, mental or emotional, I strongly believe that as a nature interpreter, it is our duty to make all people feel welcomed and included. As I learned in this course, “interpreting to people with disabilities involves getting people to participate and learn by building on their knowledge, interests, and skills, just as with any group of visitors!” and that is exactly the approach I would have as a nature interpreter (Beck, 2018). I also believe this relates to the privilege I have as a nature interpreter in recognizing the importance of integrating all audiences by providing opportunities for building social skills for those with and without disabilities while also recognizing the privilege we carry in relation to those around us. Some suggested examples of proper etiquette when working with people with disabilities are: don’t “talk down’ to a person with a disability, speak in a normal tone of voice, be patient and encouraging, do not lean on a wheelchair or any other assistive device, offer assistance only when permission is given, etc (Beck, 2018). 

Secondly, another important belief I carry as a nature interpreter is the belief in lifelong learning. One of my favourite things about nature is that there is always more to learn and discover and always more than what meets the eye. As a nature interpreter, I believe in fostering an environment of lifelong learning where individuals are encouraged to deepen their understanding and appreciation for the natural world through their own individual curiosity and interest. I believe that every individual experiences and interperets the world differently and there is no right way to see the things around us and that learning is continuous. 

What are my personal responsibilities? 

One of my main responsibilities as a nature interpreter is the responsibility to advocate for the conservation and protection of natural habitats and species, using my platform to raise awareness about environmental issues and what we as a society can do to help. As I learned throughout this course, “public advocacy can be risky, and not always possible everywhere, but for the right organizations there can be enormous opportunities to more deeply connect with their clientele and make a difference in the world,” and that would be my responsibility as a nature interpreter (Beck, 2018). Some of the ways I would promote advocacy is by raising awareness about environmental issues such as climate change or pollution, promoting local conservation efforts and encouraging sustainable practices such as recycling and waste reduction. By using my knowledge, communication skills and passion, I can inspire others to become environmental stewards and advocate for policies and practices that protect and preserve the world around us. 

Another key responsibility of mine is to ensure that as a nature interpreter, I always lead ethically and adhere to ethical standards in my interactions with both nature and people, ensuring that my actions are aligned with principles of respect, integrity and honesty. Some of the actions I can take to ensure this would be refraining from actions that cause harm or disruption to ecosystems and wildlife, only conveying information about the natural world that is accurate and honest, recognizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect for indigenous knowledge when interpreting nature and adhering to principles of informed consent before using photographs or data. Ethics are important as a nature interpreter as it’s essential for protecting the environment, species and resources, encourages us to think beyond our immediate needs and consider the impacts of our choices, teaches us to advocate for environmentally friendly practices and also builds trust between the interpreter and their audience (GFG, 2023).

How would I approach this?

One way I would approach being a nature interpreter in a way that is most suitable for me, is through use of experiential learning that involves a hands-on approach to learning that engages participants directly in the learning process. As someone who has always been more of a kinesthetic learner, I believe my teaching approach would be best suitable for things such as hand-on activities including touching or examining leaves or rocks, field investigations, nature-based crafts or projects and physical games like scavenger hunts or obstacle courses. By incorporating this hand-on approach to nature interpretation, I can effectively engage learners in a hands-on, experiential learning experience that fosters connection and curiosity towards the natural world. In doing so, it is also my duty as an interpreter to also recognize that although this is a suitable learning style for me, it might not be the most suitable for those around me. As an interpreter, I must not only be able to cater to every learner, but I need to be able to quickly adapt to suit my audiences needs (Hooykaas, 2024). Incorporating my own preferred learning style while also adapting to the needs of those around me, is what will create the best possible learning environment for my audience as a nature interpreter. 

Secondly, another approach I would take as a nature interpreter is teaching through storytelling. As someone who has always been more creative and curious about the natural world, the stories and cultural significance of nature is something that has always appealed to me. Storytelling is a powerful tool in nature interpretation and can, “powerfully convey information about cultural and natural history where stories have the potential to hold the attention of large, mixed-age audiences” (Beck, 2018). Some ways I can use storytelling through nature interpretation is by sharing stories that highlight traditional knowledge, historical events associated with a particular place and Indigenous perspectives. Additionally, by engaging the audience through use of imagination, inviting the audience to envision themselves as part of the narrative through use of vivid imagery or sensory details. Overall, I believe storytelling is one of the best ways to interpret the beauty of the world around us and create an experience for the audience that is unique and inspiring. 

Ultimately, as nature interpreters, we play a vital role in bridging the gap between humans and the natural world, encouraging curiosity, appreciation and action. Although each one of us may have different outlooks on important beliefs, responsibilities or approaches, we all play the same important role in the end. I hope you enjoyed listening to mine!

To end this post, I would love to know what your personal most important belief, responsibility, and approach is when it comes to nature interpretation? Do you think one is more important than the other?

Thanks for listening!

Natalie

Works Cited

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 02: Teaching Learners. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.

GfG. (2023, September 10). Environmental ethics - types, importance, examples. GeeksforGeeks. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/environmental-ethics/ 

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Discovering the Heartbeat of Nature: Unveiling My Personal Ethic as I Develop as a Nature Interpreter 🍀

As I embark on the journey of becoming a nature interpreter, I find myself constantly drawn to the intricate dance of life that unfolds in the natural world. This calling isn't just a profession for me; it's a way of life, a passion, and a deep-seated belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings. In this blog post, I delve into my personal ethic as a nature interpreter, exploring the beliefs, responsibilities, and approaches that guide me on this enriching path.

Beliefs that Shape My Ethical Foundation

At the core of my ethical framework as a nature interpreter lies a profound reverence for nature. I believe that every element of the natural world, from the tiniest microorganism to the grandeur of mountains, holds intrinsic value and deserves respect. This belief is rooted in the understanding that nature is not separate from us but rather an integral part of our existence, providing us with essential services, inspiration, and a sense of belonging (Beck et al., 2018). By fostering a sense of kinship with all living beings, I strive to promote empathy, compassion, and stewardship towards the environment.

Direct photograph link: https://www.nathab.com/blog/ :)

Furthermore, I believe in the power of education and storytelling as transformative tools. Nature interpretation is not just about imparting information; it's about weaving narratives that inspire wonder, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility (Beck et al., 2018). Through engaging and immersive experiences, I aim to cultivate a deeper connection between people and the natural world, fostering a collective commitment to conservation and sustainability.

Responsibilities of a Nature Interpreter

With this belief system as my compass, I acknowledge the weighty responsibilities that come with being a nature interpreter. Foremost among these responsibilities is the duty to communicate truthfully and authentically (Beck et al., 2018). I will strive to present accurate information grounded in both historical and scientific understanding, while also acknowledging Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.

Additionally, one of my primary responsibilities is to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding (Beck et al., 2018). I will strive to communicate complex ecological concepts in accessible ways, fostering awareness and appreciation for the intricacies of ecosystems. This involves staying updated with scientific advancements while also honing my skills in effective communication and storytelling (Beck et al., 2018).

Moreover, I recognize the importance of promoting ethical behaviour towards nature. This includes advocating for sustainable practices, respecting wildlife and habitats, and fostering a mindset of mindful consumption. I see myself as a guardian of knowledge, entrusted with the task of fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and nurturing a sense of environmental stewardship in others.

Direct photograph link: https://techwireasia.com/09/2021/advocating-a-sustainable-environment-with-modern-technologies/ :)

Lastly, I believe in fostering inclusivity and diversity within the realm of nature interpretation. Nature belongs to everyone, regardless of background or identity (Beck et al., 2018). Therefore, I have a responsibility to create inclusive spaces where people from all walks of life feel welcome, valued, and empowered to engage with nature on their own terms.

Approaches Aligned with My Ethical Values

In my journey as a nature interpreter, I embrace several approaches that align with my ethical values and beliefs. One of these approaches is experiential learning. I believe that hands-on experiences in nature have a profound impact on individuals, fostering a deeper connection and understanding. Whether it's organizing field trips, nature camps, or sensory explorations, I will prioritize immersive experiences that awaken the senses and ignite curiosity.

I also emphasize the importance of mindfulness and contemplation in nature interpretation. Slowing down, observing keenly, and attuning ourselves to the rhythms of nature can lead to profound insights and moments of awe (Beck et al., 2018). By encouraging mindful practices such as nature meditation, journaling, and deep listening, I will help participants cultivate a deeper relationship with the natural world and their inner selves.

Furthermore, I embrace a collaborative and community-centered approach, as I believe that collective action is crucial for addressing environmental challenges. Therefore, I will collaborate with local communities, organizations, and experts to create meaningful initiatives that promote conservation, environmental justice, and sustainable living. By fostering a sense of shared ownership and responsibility, we can amplify our impact and create positive change on a larger scale (Beck et al., 2018).

Challenges and Reflections Along the Way

While pursuing my personal ethic as a nature interpreter, I encounter various challenges and moments of reflection. One recurring challenge is navigating the delicate balance between optimism and realism. While I am deeply passionate about the potential for positive change, I also confront the harsh realities of environmental loss and degradation (Rodenburg, 2019).

Check out this video discussing the UN's recent release of a dire climate report, highlighting the alarming rate of environmental degradation in our world today.

Moreover, I am acutely aware of the challenges posed by the disconnect between children and nature (Rodenburg, 2019). This disconnect often manifests in the form of limited outdoor experiences and diminished understanding of environmental issues among younger generations (Rodenburg, 2019). Finding resilience in the face of these challenges is therefore essential, as it allows me to remain steadfast in my commitment to inspiring environmental stewardship and nurturing a deep connection with nature among individuals of all ages.

Additionally, I constantly reflect on my role as a communicator and storyteller. I strive to strike a balance between awe-inspiring narratives that capture the imagination and grounded messages that convey the urgency of conservation. It's a nuanced dance of inspiration and pragmatism, requiring sensitivity to the audience's emotions and aspirations (Beck et al., 2018).

Looking Ahead: Aspirations and Growth

As I continue to develop as a nature interpreter, my aspirations are fueled by a sense of purpose and a commitment to continuous learning and growth. I aspire to deepen my understanding of ecology, Indigenous knowledge systems, and environmental justice, integrating diverse perspectives into my practice.

I also aim to keep leveraging technology and digital platforms to reach a wider audience and create immersive virtual experiences that transcend geographical boundaries. By harnessing the power of storytelling, multimedia, and interactive tools, I seek to foster a global community of nature enthusiasts and conservation advocates.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

As I reflect on my personal ethic as a nature interpreter, I am reminded of the endless wonders and lessons that the natural world has to offer. Each day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and inspire others on this shared journey of exploration and stewardship. By staying true to my beliefs, upholding my responsibilities, and embracing suitable approaches, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing dialogue between humanity and the heartbeat of nature. Together, let us continue to nurture a deep and enduring connection with the world that sustains us all.

As we bid farewell to this semester, I look forward to carrying forward the bonds we've forged and the knowledge we've gained, knowing that our collective efforts can lead to a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come. Until next time y'all,

Madison B.

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For A Better World. Sagamore Publishing.

Rodenburg, J. (2019, June 17). Why Environmental Educators Shouldn’t Give Up Hope. Clearing Magazine. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300

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What do I bring as an Interpreter?

Some beliefs I may bring to the table...

One thing I have been effortlessly passionate about is conservation and ending extinction. In the textbook by Knudson et al. (2018), interpreters are required to have "depth in both subject matter and delivery skills". With this being said, passion plays a huge role in conveying information in a manner that teaches but also engages learners. I feel my passion for the natural world helps to enhance my want to teach my own interpretations. I believe every living thing plays a large role in this world, whether it be local or worldwide, and with species going endangered and then extinct we lose biodiversity and a role that that species played in the world. For example, we all know the dangers of honey bee declines as proven in many articles such as that by M.E. Watanabe in 1994 which covers the previous and growing fears of honey bee decline on farmers crops and the high demand for said crops. I couldn't agree more that the decline in honey bee populations due to many factors is causing a huge issue in our high demand for crops. Among this, I have a huge passion for the decline in lions in the world due to poaching which is highlighted in an article by Becker et al. (2012), which covers the decline in male lions in Zambia of approximately 30% over two decades due to trophy-hunting by poaching. While this may not be a world-wide issue, the decline in lion population poses a very large threat to biodiversity within Africa and other animals that habituate the land. This is just a small portion of decline in biodiversity in our world that I feel needs to be taught and I feel that my passion for maintaining wild animal populations is something that I can gladly bring forth in interpreting nature and teaching this. Below is just a sample of one of my paintings to try and bring awareness to the beauty of male lions and the horrible truth about poaching and caged hunts within Africa.

Responsibilities I have as an interpreter...

This prompt rather stumped me at first as I never considered what responsibilities I personally have as a nature interpreter. Upon reading the provided article by Rodenburg (2019), I felt a connection with teaching young minds by promoting curiosity, as kids are driven by curiosity. While I'm not a huge fan of children myself, interpretation seems to stem from a young mind by encouraging questions driven by curiosity and using anything as a teachable moment. By encouraging children to ask questions about the natural world and making this exciting, nature interpreters can stem from just about anywhere. From there, like myself, children can learn their own passions for interpretation and from there continue to share with family and friends. I feel that I share this responsibility to teach colleagues and perhaps young children in my own life such as nephews and nieces about the wonders of the world and how we can help it. I feel this stemmed from learning from my uncle as a child, as stated in my first blog post. My uncle created an exciting learning environment in the natural world and encouraged me to ask questions and always have an open and curious mind. I can only hope to share this with my peers, colleagues, and potentially young minds that I have the opportunity to teach.

What now?

My biggest question moving forward is how I can use what I already know and what I have now learned through this course. Will I teach this in a school setting? A more natural setting such as a campsite? Or will I use my interpretation of nature and connect it to our every day world? Will I continue to paint and draw animals that I feel need vast attention and interpret nature in that sense? Being a soft spoken person, I feel like I will always revert to the latter and share my voice in an artistic manner. In the textbook by Knudson et al. (2018), it is mentioned in chapter 10 that 'Artists of the 19th century created paintings that convinced Congress to set aside wilderness landscapes to protect them from future generations'. This is inspiring to me as I know art has been used to capture wildlife and its beauty for many decades and I can only hope that my art can do the same. By creating paintings and drawings that interpret what I see and how I feel, I can only hope to capture the attention of a handful of young and/or wise minds and create a positive change for our future whether that be through conservation or continued education.

I can only hope that these blog posts alone potentially reach some minds and inspire them to interpret and conserve our world. Until then, happy interpreting.

References Knudson, L.B., Ted, T.C., Douglas, M. Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Available from: Sagamore Publishing LLC, Sagamore Publishing LLC, 2018 Watanabe, M. E. (1994). Pollination worries rise as honey bees decline. Science, 265(5176), 1170. https://link-gale-com.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/apps/doc/A15798932/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=ac077013 Becker, M. S., Watson, F. G. R., Droge, E., Leigh, K., Carlson, R. S., & Carlson, A. A. (2012). Estimating past and future male loss in three Zambian lion populations. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 77(1), 128–142. https://doi.org/10.1002/jwmg.446  Rodenburg, J. (2019). Why Environmental Educators Shouldn't Give Up Hope. Clearing. Available from: https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300

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I am back again to tell you about SOUNDS in nature!! I personally LOVE going to sit out and listening to the different calls of animals as we live our lives. From Cardinals calling to their mates to coyotes yelping in the night, this blog post is going to be about something I am silently passionate about (pun intended!)- interpreting nature through audible calls!

One thing I have learned to appreciate in nature is calls of animals and, since moving out to the country, I cannot help but appreciate frogs a lot more than I ever did. Pictured above is my own photo of a Gray Treefrog (Hyla versicolor) that can be found quite abundantly where I live in southern Ontario. Their calls have a very distinct 'flutey trill' as described on the 'Frog Watch' website (have a listen!). When I initially heard them, I thought we just had some angry raccoons roaming in the trees but upon further inspection, these little guys were making a habitat in my pool! Given this information, the FrogWatch website provides excellent details regarding the amphibians we can see and hear in Ontario- have a peak and see if you can recognize any amphibians in your area!

Another distinct call, to me and I am sure to many others, is those of birds. Pictured below is a photo I took 10 years ago of a black-capped chickadee, feasting on some yummy seed in my hand! Chick-a-dees have a distinct call that, similar to Pokémon, mimics their name... "Chick-a-dee-dee-dee-dee-dee!" Another great reference for birds found in Ontario is found through the iNaturalist site, which can be used to identify birds via their distinct markings and calls as well as where they may be found.

On a side note, I do always interpret bird calls as the coming of Spring! Finally, when the sun is shining and the birds chirp and sing away, we can all have a deep breath once again that summer is on the way! You can also tell summer is coming with the call of Spring Peepers as they are often the first sound-identification that Spring is on the way!

One thing that DOESN'T make a sound, however, and it possibly one of my favourite things to talk about that genuinely intrigues me is owl feathers! While you may hear a Bluejay zapping by or a Hummingbird making its distinct 'hum' as it hovers, owls are required to be quiet in order to catch prey. Owls have very distinct feathers that allow them to be quiet as they flap through the night to catch mice and other rodents. Their feathers have a soft fur-like structure over the feather that, when flapping, provides a silencing effect. Pretty neat, eh?!

I'm sure I could go on for days and days about distinctive animal calls you can hear in nature! What are some of your favourite sounds to interpret in nature?

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Week 7: Music in Nature

Something I’ve been pondering about is music in nature. As someone who is not musically inclined, the sounds and melodies that nature makes are inspiring. It is a comfort to know that with a bit of effort, I too can express myself with sound.

Whenever I think about it, my mind goes to the symphony of birds chirping, singing, and whistling to one another. These avian creatures can communicate in a language that undecipherable to me and outside of my grasp. It somehow makes hearing them more magical and mysterious. While we may have some ideas or assumptions, such as the birds using song to defend territory or attract a mate (Mosco, 2023), there is still some unknowns.  

Then on the opposite side of the size spectrum, I think of the majestic giants of the sea, whales. These are some of the largest mammals to ever exist, with Blue Whales being the largest animal to ever have lived, even surpassing dinosaurs (Shaw, 2017)! Their sounds were most likely known to sailors of the past, however, they most likely would not have known what they were and assumed they were mermaids. An interesting fact is that we only discovered whale song in the 1905s because American scientists were listening for Russian submarines when stationed in Bermuda and heard whale calls (Cormier, 2018)!

In this week’s lecture, Professor Hooykaas introduced us to Ben Mirin who uses who is a wildlife DJ and a beatboxer. As stated on Mirin’s website, he travels around the world and samples animal sounds. He then “[layer[s] his own beatbox loops with his favorite animal voices [and] he makes music inspired by the ecosystems he visits (Mirin). What at neat way to merge conservation and music together. One of the animals he has captured audio of the Blue Whale! They are so melodic! 

In collaboration with Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Mirin, an online game, BeastBox was created. The objective is to mix animal sounds together with beatbox loops and add 5 animals from the same ecosystem (Cornell Lab Bird Academy). This is such a lovely way for anyone to learn about which animals belong together in an ecosystem and become immersed in a faraway land in a creative and unique manner. The ecosystems featured in the game were the Great Barrier Reef; Sonoran Desert; Chesapeake Bay; Borneo Rainforest; Okavango River Delta; Madagascar Rainforest. 

While there were some animals and birds I had heard before, some were new to me. It was fun to click and listen to all the field recordings. For example, I never thought about the noises that a Bullethead Parrotfish would make as it grinds algae and polyps from the surface of coral using it beaklike teeth or how rhymical Tropical Boubou are as they signal information to their mates and neighbours (Cornell Lab Bird Academy)!  

Listening to all the sounds really made me realize how rich of musical a world we live in. While I still don’t feel a musically inclined, the game let me be a “beatboxer” and Wildlife DJ” just for a moment and that is enough for me! For anyone who wants to become one too, I highly recommend BeastBox. There is also a new show called Secret World of Sound with David Attenborough which also covers this topic!

- - - 

Source:

Beastbox-DJ with animal sounds. Cornell Lab Bird Academy. (n.d.). https://academy.allaboutbirds.org/features/beastbox/

Bio. Ben Mirin. (n.d.). https://benmirin.com/bio 

Cormier, Z. (2018, November 5). The Loudest Voice in the animal kingdom. BBC Earth. https://www.bbcearth.com/news/the-loudest-voice-in-the-animal-kingdom 

Hooykaas, A (2024). Unit 05: Nature Interpretation through Science. In ENVS*3000: Nature Interpretation. Guelph University. 

Mosco, R. (2023, February 23). A beginner’s guide to common bird sounds and what they mean. Audubon. https://www.audubon.org/news/a-beginners-guide-common-bird-sounds-and-what-they-mean

Shaw, A. (2017, April 12). How Earth’s biggest animal started small. BBC Earth. https://www.bbcearth.com/news/how-earths-biggest-animal-started-small 

Image: Gabriel Dizzi

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Music in Nature and Nature in Music

Music can be found anywhere in nature- from the birds chirping to the frogs croaking to coyotes barking and howling in the distance. It almost creates a daily symphony for us that we may turn a dead ear to unsuspectingly. On the other hand, nature can sometimes be heard in music and it is readily available through our fingertips. Radio's consistently display music that potentially paints an interpretive image of landscapes, such as What a Wonderful World by the late Louis Armstrong, Earth Song by the late Michael Jackson and even in modern music such as Willow by Taylor Swift in which the lyrics relate human emotions to that of nature. We can even find some orchestral songs that make you feel a part of nature such as songs created by Tom Day. While his music doesn't include lyrics, it includes birds chirping or every day sounds such as people walking, the wind blowing through the trees, and so on. His instrumentals send you into this masterpiece of how I personally feel nature would 'feel' if we could turn our interpretations into music. I've attached one of his works at the bottom of this blog post which includes very faint sounds of birds chirping. This song places me, personally, as a child walking home from school on a warm sunny afternoon and I feel Tom Day is trying to create this imagery through his music. Take a listen and tell me how you feel yourself!

This music I've attached doesn't necessarily bring forth ideas and challenges towards nature interpretation, as challenged in our unit content in how music can make learning more knowledgable and interesting. Granted, I challenge this by bringing forth instrumental music that may help us focus and bring light to situations by 'reading between the lines', for lack of a better term. I also find it inspiring to make us want to go out and listen to the natural world.

Bobcaygeon by the Tragically Hip plays such an important musical role to me when it comes to interpreting nature through music. As a kid, I would go camping with my family in which we'd take 2 separate cars so as to fit more stuff (and us of course!). I'd always end up with my dad and we'd play any song we felt fit from Orinoco Flow by Enya to the Red Hot Chili Peppers (my personal favourite) to Bobcaygeon by the Tragically Hip. This song always reminds me of camping, specifically the lyrics that state

"And it was in Bobcaygeon, where we saw the constellations, reveal themselves one star at a time"

These lyrics paint the perfect picture of the stars in the sky on a cool night in the country. Living in the city, it was hard to see the stars due to light pollution whereas when we went camping in Port Elgin, stars were always something to see and take in and appreciate. Now, this song plays in my head every time I look up at the stars in my own country backyard. Do you have any music that brings you back to a natural environment?

References Youtube.com - The Tragically Hip Official HD video Youtube.com - Tom Day - Going Home as posted by 'MrSuicideSheep' What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong Willow - Taylor Swift Unit 07 - Nature Interpretation through Music, Nature Interpretation as presented by Amanda Hooykas

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Interpreting History

This week, we're covering interpretation in history! One may think that history has already been made and wonder why we would need to continue to interpret it. In reality, while history may pinpoint things with an accurate description, it is still open for discussion. The biggest example that comes to mind is the Egyptian tombs- while we have knowledge on perhaps why these were created, I feel it's still open to be interpreted and examined. Knudson et al. (2018) state that "Interpretation breathes life and meaning into past events, architecture and artifacts". With this being said, we can all paint our own picture on how and why the Egyptian tombs (again, for example) were created. This isn't necessarily something that is 'set in stone' (no pun intended!). The same can be used for art that captures nature in its finest moment, such as those created by the Group of Seven. Each painting brings it's own need for interpretation that is open to the viewer which includes paintings that may be older than the viewer itself! Perhaps history itself can be viewed as an open interpretation because ,although it has happened and cannot be changed, each person has their own view to how and why it has happened.

"There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole, and if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things. …. To think, feel or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it. (Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation)"

At first, I felt this quote was rather loaded to unpack. After some thought and reflection, I feel this quote entails interpretation in the most perfect aspect. For example, to reference my Group of Seven art interpretation- while these paintings have happened and perhaps that piece of land doesn't even look like that anymore, it still happened and it is still open to be viewed by many with their own interpretations of it. I feel this quote describes just that- while the train has passed through the station, it will still come back to be open for interpretation to newcomers and those who wish to challenge their old interpretations. The train is going to keep coming to that station no matter what and it is going to allow people on it to interpret and it's going to allow others off when they have finished their interpretation. Knudson et al. (2018) reinforce this by saying "Interpreting history, like all interpretation, is about making the subject engaging, inspiring, and personally meaningful" While the train you were on may have already left the station, it still has it's door open for others to hop on and creating their own story by enticing people on board.

I feel like this was a fairly loaded and intense blog post, so hopefully I haven't bored anyone away! See you guys in 2 weeks!

Reference Knudson, L.B., Ted, T.C., Douglas, M. Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Available from: Sagamore Publishing LLC, Sagamore Publishing LLC, 2018.

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Welcome back to another riveting week of nature interpretation! This week we have the freedom to express, which I felt compelled to continue on our artistic interpretation from last week. I feel like there is so much to interpret and how we do so is so variable. I personally love to see how animals utilize nature, such as in this photo of a Gray Treefrog (Dryophytes versicolor) I took in the fall in my backyard. A Black-eyed Susan flower that, to me, only really posed purpose for pollinators is providing a comfortable area for this little guy to rest upon.

I personally just adore observing animals in nature. From how they utilize their surroundings (i.e. camouflage), use plants as a source of food, use dead leaves and sticks as a source of insulation for their dens, and so on. It is so incredible what our natural environment provides us and how these animals instinctively know how to use it.

I think this is what leads me to be so keen on interpreting nature. I consistently observe animals and how they utilize their surroundings and strive to uphold that with conservation efforts. This includes preventing further global warming so that animals can continue to live in their natural environment. This pushes me to continue to paint and draw and photograph animals so we may appreciate their beauty and continue to withhold high standards of rehabilitation and conservation. This is such an important aspect to me and my life and I feel like as a nature interpreter this is my end-goal with teaching my own interpretations.

I really want to see everyone's interpretation of nature- do you enjoy doing so through music, art, theatre, teaching, or others?

[kdenvs3000w24]

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

I have always had a keen interest in drawing and painting animals to capture their beauty and magnificence in the natural world. I feel this goes hand-in-hand with this week's blog post in regards to how "the gift of beauty" is interpreted and how I personally interpret nature through art.

Pictured above is a painting I completed in 2017 to try and raise awareness for lions in their natural world and to try and capture their beauty in an attempt to raise awareness about lion farms and caged hunting in Africa. In the textbook by Knudson et al. (2018), it's stated that "at seemingly every art exhibition, the questions come up: What does this signify? What was the artist trying to express here?" I feel like my art has always been about representation of what we view and how it could be interpreted, as such with almost every artist you encounter. This answer will be different for everyone but I personally enjoy interpreting nature through my drawings and paintings. I feel like I can connect with the statement in Knudson et al. (2018)'s textbook "Artists of the 19th century created paintings that convinced Congress to set aside wilderness landscapes and protect them for future generations" What better way to do this than through art? Art movement's have always been around and continue to push and challenge natural implications and problems within the world. One could argue that the Group of Seven accomplished this through their abstract paintings of Canadian land- conservation of these lands is so important for generations to come and should be able to be viewed artistically and naturally!

In my own natural interpretation, I personally feel a strong connection with preserving wildlife through conservation effects. Knudson et al. (2018) made one impactful sentence that I genuinely connected to: "A thoughtful, knowledgeable, and tactful interpreter seems vital to making wild-life rehabilitation a positive and beneficial interpretive experience". With this, I feel photography as seen in the National Geographic for example and paintings like my own are so important for viewers to connect with and think "What can I do to preserve this in real life?" I personally feel I do this through paintings and photography and it allows me to express my feelings and own interpretations through a different medium than just words.

How do you feel you interpret nature through art?

Until next week friends!

Reference My own acrylic painting, completed in 2017. Knudson, L.B., Ted, T.C., Douglas, M. Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Available from: Sagamore Publishing LLC, Sagamore Publishing LLC, 2018.

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Privilege in Nature Interpretation

Privilege in nature interpretation is similar to that of privilege elsewhere, it is usually entirely random and out of ones control. My own interpretation of privilege is where luck creates opportunity. This is in the sense that a privileged individual is given greater opportunities on the sole grounds of what they were born into. I had the privilege of being born in Canada, a country with many opportunities to succeed. In the lens of nature interpretation, Canada allows many opportunities with its diverse landscape that visitors and locals alike are willing to pay to experience. This opportunity isn't available in countries or places that people do not want to visit, very few people want an interpreted tour of Iqaluit, while loads of people want a tour of Niagara Falls. Through nothing other than chance (and privilege), an interpreter in Niagara is going to have a better chance at a successful career. Being able to be raised in an area also enhances skills needed to be an interpreter, such as identification of local wildlife/flora. These opportunities are excellent examples of privilege at work. However, another large part of privilege is money. Money creates opportunity the easiest, where it works to improve chances of success as buying the best tools and training. It also works to create time, by allowing potential interpreters more leeway in finding careers and staying afloat. There is a stereotype that all rich people pursue art as a hobby, which exhibits an idea that without the need for money to survive we would all crave creative and fulfilling jobs. This is also showcased in interpretation, which can create worrisome dynamics. If most interpreters are from affluent and privileged backgrounds we lose diversity in how we interpret, and become worse interpreters by doing so. This diversity of opinions relates to the textbook, where it mentions that no audience is common. Visitors are likely to be of different backgrounds and knowledge levels, so it is important for an interpreter to versed in interacting with these people. For our privileged person, it is likely that they have travelled the world, seen many places, and spoken to many people. While a less privileged person has likely never left the country before, only experiencing the locality around them. These discrepancies further add to the divide in how privilege impacts nature interpretation.

To conclude, nature interpretation is not outside the scope of privilege, and is still majorly backed by those with the privilege to push it forward. However, this is not to say that these people are bad at what they do. But they lack a truly diverse understanding as to all potential interpretations, due to barriers in cost/experience. Barriers that they themselves didn't have to face, due to their own privilege.

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Interpretation or Interprivilege?

I will be completely honest... I genuinely struggled with this week's blog post, even after all the readings. But perhaps that puts privilege into perspective- I haven't had to consider disabilities or potential obstacles to overcome with nature interpretation. For example, I can easily access mountains and rugged areas to interpret nature but someone with a walking disability or someone in a wheelchair cannot. I rather take that for granted, which puts privilege into perspective. Quite often, you won't find 'wheelchair accessible' hiking areas. In fact, I'm sure I've seen wheelchair parking available at these places and yet the paths are winding, thin, or rugged. How on earth does that make sense? In this sense, I take for granted that I can access these areas which plays a role in privilege where someone else may struggle to access an area to interpret nature. I may see something super cool and noteworthy on this path but someone with a walking disability or wheelchair cannot. I feel this is likely a vast topic to be covered but what are your thoughts?

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I bet you're wondering why I added a photo of a tiger (the photo is my own, please no copyright stuff!)... I figured it was the best way to explain how I feel about what I feel is the ideal role of an environmental interpreter. I feel like these roles are best played out by conservationists as they understand best what does and does not fit in an environment. For example, what invasive species (plants, insects, animals) are affecting the area around us? Are there endangered species? Perhaps an overpopulation of something? I feel conservationists can identify these things through a scan of a set area and work with this to educate the public on matters. From there, the public can learn and replicate information learned and continue their own nature interpretation. I fondly remember camping as a child and attending 'Nature Centre's' that would often have talks/events about plants and animals within the area. I feel like this encompasses how I interpret an 'environmental interpreter'. With this, I also feel zookeepers and those working hard to reverse the effects of endangerment and so on also represent environmental interpreters. These individuals and groups take their observations and reflect it into a learning opportunity to move forward in conservation efforts.

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How has nature affected me?

I have always had a genuine connection with nature. Being someone that has grown fond of connection with animals and nature as opposed to personable connections, I have always found solace in being with and appreciating the world around us. I always remember my uncle taking myself, my brother and cousins on hikes all the time. We learned about fossils, trees, rocks, rivers, and so much more. We learned what nature offers us; fun, creativity, meditation, and more importantly a sense of self. I always find myself using these valuable lessons my uncle taught me in regards to nature in my life today- having a tough day? Go for a hike in nature. Need some inspiration? Sit by the lake. Overwhelmed? Sit outside and listen to what the earth and its creatures have to say. Those valuable lessons I learned as a child to appreciate and use nature in every day ways has always stuck with me, and now living in the country I can only appreciate and love it more.

Here's to many more years of appreciating it all

🦁