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This blog was created for Shelby Sondej in the ENVS*3000 W25, University of Guelph course.

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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Final Blog "Under the Stars: Finding Meaning and Purpose in Nature"

My Personal Ethic as a Nature Interpreter

Finding Meaning in Nature

In a world dominated by technology and constant connectivity, I often find myself longing for moments of solitude and reflection. Nature offers me a sanctuary from this fast-paced environment, allowing me to reconnect with myself and the world around me. Whether it is walking beside a river, reading while it rains, or driving to music during a storm, these small moments in nature bring me a sense of peace and clarity. One of my greatest aspirations is to experience camping for the first time, completely disconnected from the internet and my phone, to fully embrace the feeling of belonging to this world. As I develop as a nature interpreter, I want to encourage others to seek out these meaningful experiences and rediscover the beauty of the natural world.

River Walk – "A quiet moment by the river, where the flowing water brings peace and reflection. (Photo taken by me)"

Beyond being a personal retreat, nature holds the power to teach, inspire, and transform. Throughout history, humans have found meaning in the natural world through art, philosophy, or spiritual beliefs. Many cultures have revered nature as sacred, recognizing that it provides resources for survival and a sense of identity and purpose. In our modern world, however, many people have lost this deep-rooted connection, often seeing nature as something separate from themselves rather than as an integral part of their existence. As a nature interpreter, I see it as my role to bridge this gap and help others rediscover their place within the natural world.

My Ethical Perspective: Deep Ecology and Conservationism

My approach to nature interpretation is deeply rooted in the principles of deep ecology and conservationism. I believe that nature holds intrinsic value beyond its usefulness to humans. The rivers I walk beside, the sunsets over the ocean, and the clear waters of a peaceful lake are not just aesthetically pleasing they are essential elements of a living, interconnected world. Every living being has a role to play, and it is our responsibility to respect and protect these ecosystems.

Sunset over the sea - "Where the Sky Meets the Sea – A Sunset Shared in Silence and Wonder. (Photo taken by me)"

Deep ecology suggests that humans are not above nature but rather a part of it. This perspective challenges the idea that we can use nature as a limitless resource for human convenience. Instead, it calls for a fundamental shift in how we view our relationship with the environment. If we see ourselves as deeply connected to nature, we begin to understand that harming it ultimately harms us as well. This belief influences my approach to nature interpretation, as I want to encourage others to see nature not just as a place to visit but as a home we share with countless other living beings.

I also see conservation as an ethical duty. While modern life often distances us from nature, I believe it is crucial to preserve these landscapes for future generations. Encouraging others to immerse themselves in the natural world, seeing its beauty firsthand, and recognizing its importance is part of my role as a nature interpreter. By fostering an emotional connection to nature, I hope to inspire others to protect and care for the environment in their own way. Protecting nature is not just about large-scale conservation efforts it is also about the small choices we make every day, from reducing waste to supporting sustainable practices.

Personal Approaches to Nature Interpretation

Rather than focusing solely on scientific facts, I take an emotional and experiential approach to nature interpretation. I believe that some of the most powerful moments in life come from personal experiences in nature. Stargazing with a loved one, standing in awe at a breathtaking sunset, or feeling the gentle flow of a river beneath my feet these moments create lasting memories that connect us to the world in a way that no lecture or textbook can.

Night Stars – "A sky full of stars, reminding us of the vastness of the universe and our place within it. (Photo taken by me)"

To share this connection with others, I would encourage storytelling and reflection. Instead of simply explaining the biodiversity of a forest, I would ask visitors to close their eyes and listen to the rustling leaves, to feel the cool air on their skin, and imagine what life would be like without such a space. By appealing to the senses and emotions, I hope to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Additionally, I see nature's interpretation to inspire future generations to spend more time outdoors. Many children grow up in environments where screens and structured activities take precedence over free exploration in nature. By encouraging young people to experience the outdoors, I hope to help them form their own cherished memories, whether it is watching fireflies on a summer night, skipping stones across a lake, or simply lying in the grass and watching the clouds drift by.

It is also important to recognize that people experience nature in different ways. Some may connect with it through adventure hiking, rock climbing, or kayaking while others may prefer quiet solitude, such as sitting by a river or reading under a tree. As a nature interpreter, I want to create experiences that cater to different personalities and interests. By making nature feel accessible to everyone, I hope to remove barriers that might prevent people from engaging with the natural world.

The Power of Images in Interpretation

To enhance my role as a nature interpreter, I believe incorporating images can be a powerful tool. A single photograph of a tranquil river, a star-filled sky, or a lone tent under the trees can evoke emotions that words sometimes cannot. Images can serve as a bridge between storytelling and personal experience, allowing viewers to reflect on their own relationship with nature.

For instance, I might include an image of a quiet forest path to symbolize the journey of self-discovery that nature offers. A photograph of a sunrise over the ocean could represent new beginnings and the endless possibilities that nature provides. A picture of a group of friends sitting around a campfire might highlight the communal aspect of nature, emphasizing how it brings people together. By integrating these visual elements, I can create a more immersive and thought-provoking experience for those I hope to reach.

Beyond their emotional impact, images can also serve an educational purpose. A close-up of an endangered species might help people understand the importance of conservation efforts. A time-lapse series of a changing landscape might illustrate the effects of climate change. Through careful selection of visuals, I can enhance storytelling and create a more engaging experience for my audience.

Rain While Driving – "A rainy drive, where the rhythmic sound of raindrops on the windshield creates a calming atmosphere. (Photo taken by me)"

Encouraging Connection and Conservation

As I continue developing as a nature interpreter, my goal is to help others find their own meaningful connections with the environment. Whether through quiet moments by a river, shared experiences under the stars, or the simple appreciation of a breathtaking landscape, nature has the power to bring people together and provide a sense of belonging. By fostering these connections, I hope to inspire a greater appreciation for the natural world and a deeper commitment to its protection.

In the end, nature interpretation is not just about conveying information it is about creating experiences that leave a lasting impact. By blending emotion, storytelling, and visual imagery, I want to encourage future generations to step away from their screens, immerse themselves in nature, and create their own unforgettable memories in the world around them.

I believe that if more people took the time to engage with nature, they would develop a sense of responsibility toward it. The more we value and appreciate the natural world, the more likely we are to take action to protect it. This is why I see my role as a nature interpreter not just as an educator but as an advocate someone who helps others see the beauty, wonder, and necessity of the environment in ways that resonate with their own experiences.

Nature is not just something we visit on vacation it is an essential part of who we are. Through my work as a nature interpreter, I hope to remind people of this truth and inspire them to foster a lifelong relationship with the world outside their doors.

If more people took the time to engage with nature, they would develop a sense of responsibility toward it. The more we value and appreciate the natural world, the more likely we are to take action to protect it. So I ask, when was the last time you truly immersed yourself in nature, not just as a visitor, but as someone who belongs to it?

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Hi Bayan,

Your last post was a powerful reflection, combining all of the key concepts we learned in this course. It also serves as a reminder that nature is an escape from modern life that can guide us into a deeper, personal reflection when isolated. It is hard to escape the fast-paced digital world in our lives, especially as students. We use technology for school, personal enjoyment, and it has taken over the way we communicate and form connections with others. It basically has taken over our everyday life. It is truly refreshing to read your, and other classmates' blogs about feeling that longing for a deeper immersion in nature. I relate to your desire to use nature as a tool to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings.

I agree that nature is here for our coexistence, without nature and evolution, we would not be here today.

I also wrote in my blog about how nature serves a greater purpose than the natural resources we use, and it is our responsibility as interpreters to foster deeper connections with visitors and nature. I think our values as interpreters can be influential stepping stones that lead people to make conscious decisions to protect nature. If we can help others find their love for nature, we will be able to help protect nature for future generations.

Your personal approaches to interpretation are inspiring. You highlighted the importance of using our senses to create memorable emotional experiences through storytelling and reflection. When speaking to the general public, they may lack knowledge of specific things about the environment or the biology and chemistry behind it. The use of storytelling with scientific facts makes it easier to understand.

The role of an interpreter includes being able to recognize the different needs of visitors. This ties into inclusivity by making a space where people can do activities or engage in different presentations that are tailored to them. I also prefer a more peaceful alone time in nature, but others could prefer an experience that stimulates them, such as water rafting. By being inclusive, it creates the opportunity for everyone to find their own relationship with nature. I think by doing this, we are not only following the responsibility of an interpreter but being a passionate guide for others.

Your passion for photography can provide imagery that provides literal and metaphorical meaning to visitors to deepen their own interpretations. The textbook mentions how visual art, such as photographs, has been increasing in popularity throughout museums, and instead of leaving it up to the viewer to interpret the piece alone, the museum includes the perspective of the artist and helps guide the audience to see the illustrator's perspective. By pairing your own visuals with storytelling, you create a multi-sensory interpretation that will help others gain a greater appreciation for nature.

Thank you for your wonderful blog posts this semester, it has inspired my own journey as a nature interpreter. I know you will continue to inspire others to step away from the technology of the modern world, and slow down to appreciate nature and its beauty.

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Blog 10- Final Blog Post

My connection to nature has always come from small but meaningful moments. Whether its listening to birds chirping after a rain fall or standing at the top of a mountain, I’ve realized that these moments remind me to slow down and appreciate the little things in life. Over time, they’ve shaped a sense of curiosity and wonder in me, and this is exactly what I want to pass on to others. As I’ve begun to develop my identity as a nature interpreter throughout this course, I’ve learned that my role isn’t about listing facts. Instead, it’s about presenting information that is enticing, engaging, interesting and inspiring (Beck et al., pg. 6).

I believe that interpretation should spark emotional connection as much as intellectual understanding. The moments that have mattered the most to me in nature are the ones that made me feel at peace or in awe. That is what sets the foundation of my personal ethics in nature, to help others experience the same uplifting emotional response (Beck et al., pg. 44). I’ve discovered that for me, interpretation often comes in the form of photography and storytelling. I love capturing small details like the colours in a sunset, shells on the beach or the stars in the night sky. By sharing my experiences, I hope it can inspire someone to ask questions, laugh, or venture out into nature themselves. When I share my photos and stories to social media, I aim to provoke people’s curiosity and joy (Beck et al., pg. 322).

My style as a nature interpreter is built upon storytelling and personal connection. I believe that sharing the facts and history are important, but how those facts are presented is what makes people care. Photography has become one of my favourite ways to interpret nature. I am always amazed at how a single photo of a sunset, a wildflower or a quiet mountain trail can spark curiosity and powerful emotions. I enjoy sharing personal experiences in ways that feel relatable and achievable. I’m just a 22 year old university student, and I want people to see that you don’t need expensive gear or lots of time to connect with nature.

At the core of my beliefs is the idea that knowledge should inspire both action and connection. People are more likely to care about protecting the environment if they can personally relate to it. I believe as interpreters we have a responsibility to make information relevant to individuals, regardless of age, background or prior experience. This also means recognizing and addressing the barriers that can prevent people from engaging in nature. Economical, cultural, communication barriers, lack of knowledge and fear can all discourage minority populations from participating in outdoor experiences (Beck et al., pg. 133-135). I believe that nature is for everyone. Not everyone arrives with the same confidence or familiarity, and it is crucial that people feel welcome, included, and free of judgement.

Financial barriers, especially in today’s economy, can also be significant. Park passes, daily entrance fees, and parking costs can exclude lower-income households from enjoying natural spaces. This is why I was excited to learn about the “nature prescription” or PaRx initiative that is available all across Canada. PaRx allows healthcare providers to prescribe time in nature as part of a wellness plan, helping to reduce different diseases and disorders such as anxiety, depression, obesity and many more. PaRx holders can access certain conservation areas and parks in their area for free, helping to decrease financial barriers and make nature more accessible. I recently received my own PaRx from my healthcare provider, and I am looking forward to putting it to use this summer. I’ve included two links below for anyone that might be interested in learning more.

As I continue to grow and develop as a nature interpreter, I am becoming more aware of the responsibilities that come with this role. Communicating information clearly and accurately is extremely important to me. With my background in biology, I understand how crucial it is to relay information without oversimplifying or misrepresenting it. But I have also learned that simply being accurate isn’t enough, it is just as important to present information in ways that are relevant and enjoyable for others. The textbooks T.O.R.E is a model I plan to follow closely, reminding me to make my interpretations Thematic, Organized, Relevant, and Enjoyable (Beck et al., pg. 87). This simple structure will help me stay focused and intentional when communicating with others.

Another responsibility that is important in this field is inclusivity. As I mentioned earlier, it is important to address barriers that might prevent people from connecting with nature, but I also believe inclusivity means adjusting how I communicate so that everyone, regardless of age, background, or education, can find personal meaning in what I share. My experience working at the Fairmont Hotel in Banff Alberta, taught me how valuable this skill is. Every day, I interacted with people from different countries, education levels, and age groups. Sometimes I found myself explaining to young children which animals lived in the area, using simple and playful language. Other times, I’d be speaking to an adult visitor that wanted to understand the science behind why Lake Louise is so blue, in which case I would go into more depth using descriptions and explanations. People have different learning styles and levels of understanding, and part of being a good interpreter is the ability to read your audience and adapt. As the textbook emphasizes, preparation, organization, enthusiasm, and professionalism can be appreciated by all audiences (Beck et al., pg. 128-129). This kind of interpretation is what I strive to be, one who is adaptable and committed to making interactions meaningful.

This course has helped me realize that nature interpretation in not just about sharing knowledge, its about building trust, sparking curiosity, and helping people form their own relationships with the natural world. Whether through photography, storytelling, or face-to-face conversations, I hope to inspire others to slow down and appreciate the small, meaningful moments that nature offers. I also understand that this role comes with responsibility. It means being accurate and clear, but also approachable and inclusive. It means recognizing barriers and doing my part to remove them, so that everyone feels capable of connecting with nature. We are reminded that this work is about harmonious relationships between the individual and the environment (Beck et al., pg. 475). That is the relationship I hope to encourage people to have with nature, one where people not only learn about nature, but feel a part of it, care for it, and carry that connection forward.

Thanks everyone for a great semester, I really enjoyed reading everyones post and also sharing my stories.

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

We’re breaking ground as Canada’s first national, evidence-based nature prescription program. Nature prescriptions were named one of the top

PaRx is scaling at a rapid pace with endorsement from the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and a nomination for an Earthshot Prize. Resear

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Hi Cayla,

I enjoyed reading your heartfelt reflection on who you are as an interpreter. I really connected with your idea that nature interpretation should be about creating connections, not only about reciting scientific facts. Your passion for interpretation through photographing nature is a great way of highlighting nature's hidden beauty and harmony. I think this can be really effective when trying to show visitors the bigger picture of nature and how all these aspects come together in unity. Additionally, it is a perfect way of making nature interpretation accessible to groups of people who are unable to be there in the present. Whether it is due to financial or geographical barriers. Through your photographs, I know you will inspire and encourage others to actively pursue connections with nature, and recognize you do not need to be spending huge amounts to do so.

Additionally, you highlight how important inclusivity is in nature interpretation, with one of the biggest struggles being financial barriers. I have never heard of Canada's National Nature Perscription Program (PaRx) until now. This initiative seems to do an effective job of combining nature with public health. It even offers tips and ideas on how to incorporate nature into busy schedules and lists the health benefits that come from spending time in nature. This can be another resource that moves people to connect with nature.

Your work experience in Banff sounds like a dream! You were able to follow the textbook's models without realizing it, and now you can continue to enhance this skill in your future career. I agree that adaptability is an important quality of a nature interpreter because of the wide variety of people you interact with daily. Similarly to our podcasts, the same script we use for our younger audience, would not be engaging or stimulating to an older audience. I also think interpreters need to account for the different interests visitors can have. Just like how you explained which animals lived in the area vs. the science behind the colour of the lake. Without creating a welcoming environment, people could be less likely to ask questions.

Side note: You clearly show your passion for nature throughout your blog and show the intention behind your work. I believe you will leave lasting impacts on those you connect with in the future!

Thank you for sharing such an insightful post of who you are as an interpreter and what ethical values you will follow. You were able to capture what it means to be an interpreter and include your own personal touch. Your commitment to fostering connections with nature and making it more accessible is a step in the right direction to improve the general knowledge of the public!

My Last Post

The time has come for our final blog post. This is the perfect opportunity to reflect and connect on the concepts we have learned. Throughout this course, we have learned that nature interpretation is a diverse and dynamic practice that can happen across various venues, using both personal an non-personal communication strategies to engage different audiences. The work of a nature interpreter involves direct storytelling, field interpretation, and technological tools to translate cultural and natural heritage into meaningful experiences. Interpreters are vital to helping people connect and appreciate museums, historical sites, arboretums, and natural landscapes such as national parks and forests. Whether leading visitors through a historical landmark or enhancing a hike with inside insights interprets educate and entertain. Overall, elevating experiences with a deeper understanding and personal fulfilment.

As I develop my sense of self as a nature interpreter, I recognize that this position holds more than sharing my passion for nature with visitors. My ethical responsibilities and personal beliefs will serve as a foundation for how I interact with audiences and the environment around me. We have learned that nature interpretation is more than stating scientific facts, it is about creating deep and personal connections between people and the environment. In the content, we now understand the different learning styles and how we communicate as nature interpreters can follow the ideals of interpretation. My personal ethic is rooted in inclusivity in communication to commit to teaching others how to respect nature. Throughout this reflection, I will explore the beliefs I will bring to this role, and the responsibilities I will sustain.

My experiences with my grandparents remind me of one scene in The Hunger Games, when Katniss is hunting in District 13 and a deer is not afraid of her and her weapon. Gale goes on to say “It’s because they have never been hunted before. It’s almost not fair.” It goes to show how nature also exists independently. When I am alone walking through trials, almost all of the animals run or move out of the way the moment they see me. This has made me want to try harder to form connections with nature, not just for myself, but for others. This goes hand-in-hand with the promotion of ethical nature behaviour. I would have to model and support this by educating visitors on how their actions can impact the environment.

A major concept of privilege in nature interpretation we learned during this course has stuck with me. Recall Peggy McIntosh’s article, she explains the concept of the Invisible Knapsack. Nature interpretation holds privileges too, such as who can engage in nature interpretation, who is included, and who isn’t. I believe that interpreters must be inclusive and everyone is deserving to have access to nature and the knowledge we bring to help them connect with it. I would make an effort to use engaging language, be accommodating to all learning styles, and respect cultural perspectives of nature. I think an important aspect of this issue is the poor recognition of how some communities cannot access nature. This could be due to historical rejection, socioeconomic barriers, or geographic location. As a nature interpreter, it is my ethical responsibility to spread this awareness and create a space where everyone feels safe. To do this, I would reach out to diverse communities and listen and learn from their stories and insights. I hope this will foster an inclusive and empowering for all audiences.

For me, I have always found that a hands-on approach with interactive learning is the most effective for engagement and comprehension. As a nature interpreter, I would provide guided walks or tours, in-person examples, and find ways for the visitors to actively participate to improve their learning. I think this would best reinforce information while also creating memorable personal experiences, that hopefully resonate with each individual. To utilize my in-person examples, I would incorporate storytelling to help further explain important concepts. This would include stories of history, my personal experiences, and local reports. I believe a well-told story can help remove the divide of scientific knowledge and emotion, by making facts into an experience.

Circling back to privilege in nature interpretation, I would be adaptive to each visitor's needs and encourage curiosity. It is important to make sure different interests and levels of expertise are acknowledged and implicated through my interpretations. I think one of my strengths is the ability to adapt approaches for children especially. I have been a nanny for 3 years for 3 kids ranging from infants to elementary school children. For the children, I would incorporate play into learning to make my work more engaging. For adults, I would encourage open discussions to help deepen understanding and touch on different areas of interest. Similarly, I would present myself as a guide rather than a figure of authority to further inspire curiosity.

This class has allowed me to develop my personal values and navigate the different responsibilities of a nature interpreter. When engaging with visitors, my ethical beliefs of the value of nature, awareness of privilege and the importance of inclusivity, I will be able to create enjoyable experiences for all. As an interpreter, I have responsibilities to provide correct information, create a sense of place, and inspire stewardship of the environment. Overall, my goal is to create experiences that are meaningful, and accessible, and foster deeper connections to nature.

References

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

Gallavan, Nancy P. "Helping teachers unpack their 'invisible knapsacks'." Multicultural Education, vol. 13, no. 1, fall 2005, p. 36. Gale Academic OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A137921591/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=9fe2f151.

#nature #the good place #environmental interpreter #responsibility #morals #passion #community #inclusivity

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A World Beneath the Waves

Hey everyone!

Welcome back to my blog! Today, I want to talk about something truly spectacular in nature. Now, I might not have a mind-blowing fun fact to throw at you, but there is one place that I have a pretty strong love for.

When I think of one of my favourite places to be, the ocean immediately comes to mind. It’s where I feel most at peace, where I jump around in the waves like I’m five years old again, and where I snorkel through the salty blue waters, eager to find creatures I’ve never seen before.

Imagine a place where thousands of creatures communicate and glow in the darkness. A place where the salty smell is so strong you can taste it on your tongue. A place where the waves are so loud they crash like thunder against the shore.

The ocean is not just a giant body of water – it’s an underwater world that holds thousands of stories and mysteries.

The ocean is a method of transportation, where people sail their boats across the water to explore the world. For centuries, people have sailed its rough waters to discover new lands and connect to different cultures. It is also a giant buffet, providing me with the most delicious sushi and a big bowl of seafood linguine. Seriously, what would I do without the ocean?

But, what I find most fascinating is that there is still OVER 80% of the ocean humans have yet to explore. Can you imagine what’s down there? Scientists estimate that there could be millions of creatures, from bioluminescent organisms to eyeless crustaceans, inhabiting the deep, dark sea.

The Pacific Ocean’s Mariana Trench is the ocean’s deepest known point at 36,070 feet below sea level (Rafferty & Riley, 2024). Creatures found in these deep levels have evolved various adaptations to survive in these high pressure, freezing temperature, dark areas. Life is still thriving in a way that feels impossible to understand.

Chapter 21 of the textbook highlights the important role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth, emphasizing the concern that human activities are causing significant harm to these ecosystems. While there are individuals who are doing an amazing job of showcasing the wonders of marine life, more efforts are needed to educate people about the connection between their actions on land and the effect on the ocean’s health. By sharing experiences and knowledge, others can be inspired to protect this beautiful world and ensure it is protected for future years to come.

The ocean is full of endless surprises, where science meets wonder, where reality feels like a myth, and where we are reminded of how incredible our planet truly is. The diversity of organisms, discovered and undiscovered, serves as a strong reminder of nature’s complexity and beauty.

Thanks for reading about my fascination with the ocean. See you next week!

Sydney

References

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

Rafferty, J.P., Riley, P. (2024, April 10). How deep is the ocean?. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/Understanding-the-depth-of-Earths-oceans-2231362

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Hi Sydney!

Your post truly captures the beauty and mystery of the ocean! Your descriptions teleported me onto the beach, listening to the waves crash at my feet. The sea is one of nature's greatest wonders, and it is so much more than a body of water. The ocean to me, is a world of its own, filled with so many discoveries that have yet to occur. However, I would be lying if I said it did not scare me a little bit.

It really is fascinating that 80% of the ocean is still being explored. Sometimes, I think, why are we exploring space when our own planet is still a mystery? (I know, obviously, space is equally important... But it just blows my mind.) The idea that life is possible in conditions like Marianas Trench does show how the evolution and adaptation of organisms undergo. (Thanks Darwin!) I once went scuba diving off the coast of Aruba, and we saw so many sea creatures but the most interesting was a 10-foot-long electric lime green eel swimming right towards us! I almost screamed! But it was so fascinating to see it swim side to side just like how a snake moves on land.

Additionally, I appreciated how you highlighted the roles humans play in damaging our oceans. Especially during a time of crisis with global warming. There are multiple cases of permafrost melting and exposing dead carcasses that spread infectious diseases! In northern Siberia, a child passed away due to exposure to anthrax that originated from a deer carcass in 2016, when the last case was recorded in 1941 (Geddes, 2022). This is another reason why it is so important people understand the importance of the ocean and global warming.

Thank you for this passionate blog post! I am looking forward to your next post.

References

Geddes, L. (2022, October 18). Next pandemic may come from melting glaciers, new data shows. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/science/2022/oct/19/next-pandemic-may-come-from-melting-glaciers-new-data-shows

#ocean #global warming #discover #nature #explore

Is Nature Perfectly Imperfect?

Nature is full of amazing simplicity and complexity, but one thing you will (likely) never see is a straight line. You could argue that humans invented the straight line, but if you zoom in close enough, you can see the tiniest imperfections exposed. We see twisting vines, curved blades of grass, and winding river bends. It seems that nature loves curves, spirals, and bends over stiff lines. But why?

You have probably seen photos of lightning bolts being compared to the blood vessels in our bodies or a peacock butterfly with patterned wings resembling an eye. Nature seems to follow a pattern of repeating structures in different sizes. This is because of the way nature and living things grow. We learn in cellular biology that all things develop in organic processes in response to their environment. Flowers, for example, do not sprout to be perfectly straight up in the air. Rather, they bend and move towards sunlight (depending on the flower), adapt to the wind and rain, and compete with other organisms for space. As I mentioned earlier, rivers do not make a straight line from their origin. Instead, they sculpt their way through the land and are shaped by the ground around them.

Furthermore, natural structures are always being shaped and improved by outside factors. Over time, no shape stays precisely straight or stiff because of the effects of gravity, wind, water, and other environmental factors. Tree trunks bend, coasts erode, and mountains change over millennia. For instance, when a tree develops, the force of the wind drives its branches to bend, strengthening the tree's resilience to storms. The same idea holds true for naturally occurring terrain formations; the constant activity of wind and water forms cliffs, valleys, and canyons into irregular yet useful structures.

At the atomic level, nature also steers clear of straight lines. With closer inspection, something that appears to be straight to the naked eye is never actually straight. Atoms, which make up everything in the physical universe, are always moving and vibrating. When enlarged, even the smoothest surface has a complex texture of tiny lumps and inconsistencies. The principles of physics demand this continual motion, which keeps natural materials from being completely straight.

The next time you go on a walk outside, pause to notice the twists, bends, and asymmetries that surround you!

References

Tuab, B. (2024, December 26). Are there any perfectly straight lines in nature?. IFLScience. https://www.iflscience.com/are-there-any-perfectly-straight-lines-in-nature-77390

Villazon, L. (2023, July 12). Is the straight line a human invention?. BBC Science Focus Magazine. https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/is-the-straight-line-a-human-invention

#nature #imperfection #beauty #organiclines #patterns

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Does nature make music?

This week we were tasked to dive deeper into the connection between, nature and art, specifically with a lens on the role music plays nature and the role nature plays in music.

Personally, I find the two hard to uncouple as it is a way that I connect to nature. Similar to my previous thoughts on art and nature, music has the ability to capture the feelings elicited by nature’s wonder, A certain advantage to using music to interpret nature, it is easier to experience other aspects of nature while listening to music. For example, when hanging out in my backyard ill listen to music, when this is coupled with laying in the grass, looking at the sky and feeling a gust of wind, it creates an immersive experience where all the different sensations while listening to music can amplify emotional responses elicited, altering the way nature is interpreted. I think it is important to note that the emotional response can vary depending on the emotional tone of the music but nevertheless coupled with nature, it is amplified. Beck et al. (2018) pointed out, while material possessions may lose their value over time, real-life experiences like these only grow more meaningful.

Additionally, I see music in nature everywhere, not everything may be a song, but everything has a beat and a rhythm. Probably, the most evident example of music in nature for most people are bird songs. Additionally, whether they know it or not, most people have probably heard cicadas, frogs croaking, crickets chirping and maybe even heard the loudest penis for its size in nature tapping against the abdomen of the water boatmen. These forms of communication are a necessity for these organisms, that can create a beautiful harmonizing sound scape with flowing water or branches and leaves in the breeze. Experiencing the world to the beat of these sounds dancing together, where the rhythm can dictate the movement of your body both physically and mentally. Music allows for some very beautiful moments in nature, but depending on the interpreter’s perspective these moments can also be very scary or anxiety inducing. Personally, one the most calming moments to me, is putting my ear to pet’s (my cat) or persons heartbeat, or against a tree listening to the movement of water behind the bark. These sounds remind me about the movement of energy and the importance of being true to your own rhythm. I think what is so beautiful about the heartbeats, is that they do not need to be heard to feel the musical ability, you can feel the strength of the beat. Which examples like that make music and natures relationship accessible to people hard of hearing.

That being said it is easy to put any sounds captured into music, music production can take any naturally occurring sound and use it to make music. Gray et al. (2001), mentions how “natural sounds” fill our world, these have been recorded and documented for years

Lyrics can describe artists experience in nature. One of the earliest memories for me was watching the circle of life from the lion king, that’s when I first realized that music can be used to depict nature. One song that currently transports me to a state of mind in nature is Silhouette by The Backseat Lovers. This song is primarily instrumental, and the 6-minute song immediately brings me through an emotional journey of running through the woods.

References

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

Gray, P. M., Krause, B., Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C., & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science, 291(5501), 52. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A69270354/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=fb9366a8

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Hi Marcus,

I think your idea on the relationship between nature and music is extremely thoughtful. I agree that it is hard to separate the two, as music acts as a gateway to nature. Your experiences of laying in the grass, listening to music while being fully immersed by nature perfectly capture how music is able to enhance our emotional response to nature.

I really liked your point of how music is in nature through rhythm, which can be easily overlooked in today's chaotic and face-paced world.

Additionally, I love the song Silhouette by the Backseat Lovers! My friends and I always play it on our drive home back from my cottage with the windows down! We all sit in silence, taking in our surroundings like a 'quiet' moment for all of us to reflect and be thankful for being able to interact with nature. I think your example of running through the woods is extremely accurate for this song.

I really appreciated your reflections and thoughts on nature and music.

Nature's Tune

I like to think that nature has been the original muse behind the creation of music. Such as the sounds of the waves crashing against the shore or the birds singing at dawn. Thousands of years ago, before the sounds of nature were replaced with the roars of cars and the hums of electrical boxes, people relied on nature for much more than just sustenance. It was the soundtrack of their lives.

Farmers would be woken up by the calls of roosters, their natural alarm clock to begin their day. The sounds of humming insects and the wind as the sun beats down would be in the background of their lives. Even the snow, offering a new sound of calmness and stillness as it covers the earth like a blanket, allows for everyone and everything to pause and rest. This is music in nature.

Music is in nature, when the composer or artist draws from their surroundings as inspiration. I would like for you to take the time and listen to the lyrics of Michael Jackson's Earth Song…

His music passionately reflects the sad reality of humans abusing nature. The song's emotion and lyrics tell us to pay attention to the damage we have inflicted on nature and how we are responsible for changing and reminding ourselves of our actions before it is too late. Jackson’s music reminds us that nature gives us life and needs to be preserved. In addition to being an acknowledgment of what has been lost, Earth Song is a call to action for what is yet salvageable. Just as the textbook mentions, songs reach the listener to provoke strong emotions.

On a more positive note, a song that accurately connects nature and music is “Colours of the Wind” from Pocahontas. In the song, we get to see nature through the eyes of a Native American. It provides us with imagery of the wind and trees that capture how everything has its own place in nature. I think this song reminds us that nature does not always have to be background noise; nature should be listened to and appreciated.

When my little sisters and I were younger, we would have our parents play this song on repeat at our cottage through the old speaker and run through the backyard and across the streams.

References

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

#nature #music #listen #artwork #Youtube

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Unit 6

"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)

I think that this thought-provoking quote really challenges us to reconsider the role of history in our understanding of nature. It challenges the modern idea to perceive history as something separate from the present, a relic rather than something that continues to shape the world around us. Through my own studies and experiences, I have come to see that environmental integrity is not merely about conserving nature as it exists today, but about understanding its past.

One of the most compelling aspects of Hyams' argument is the idea that integrity is dependent on the cohesion of all parts of a whole, even when those parts are spread across time. Seeing a forest as not just a collection of trees, but a living map of geological shifts, species migrations and human interactions. To truly interpret nature, we have to see past the immediate scene in front of us and recognize the historical events that have sculpted it. Without this awareness, we can only see pieces of the puzzle, rather than the intricate web of time that give an ecosystem its full meaning.

I think that this historical perspective can be particularly crucial in the topic of conservation. How are we to help the earth and make advancements if we don't know everything that happened to it in the past? For example, restoration ecology relies on historical records to guide the recovery of ecosystems that have been disrupted by human activity. The reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park serves as a relevant case study. By acknowledging the historical role of apex predators, scientists were able to restore ecological balance (Ripple, 2012). This demonstrates that conservation is as much about remembering as it is about protecting. You can't have one without the other.

Beyond ecology, I can see Hyams' message reflected in broader cultural and ethical fields of environmental stewardship. Indigenous knowledge systems are a great example of how history informs sustainable environmental practices. Many Indigenous communities view land stewardship as a responsibility passed down through generations, integrating historical knowledge into every-day decision making. This is greatly contrasted with the perspective often found in Western conservation, where nature is often seen as separate from human history. The loss of these important historical perspectives not only diminishes our understanding of nature, but also denies valuable environmental wisdom that has been used for centuries.

I thought that Hyams' analogy of the railway station was interesting, as it highlights another critical issue. Climate change, biodiversity loss and deforestation are often looked at as modern crises, but they are the consequences of long-standing patterns that have existed for decades. If we view these problems as "now problems", we will overlook the systemic roots of them. If we ignore the past, we are at much greater risk of repeating the same mistakes.

Overall, I believe that history should always be taken into consideration. We must understand how nature has evolved, as it is embedded in the land and ecological processes that exist to this day.

References

Cronon, W. (1996). Uncommon ground: Rethinking the human place in nature. W. W. Norton & Company.

Ripple, W. J., & Beschta, R. L. (2012). Trophic cascades in Yellowstone: The first 15 years after wolf reintroduction. Biological Conservation, 145(1), 205-213. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2011.11.005

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Hi Olivia!

Your blog post gave an exciting and well-written perspective of history and nature.

Of course, I understand how history has shaped the modern world, but I have never thought to put history and the present in the same category. I thought this was very compelling, and understanding that understanding the history of nature is important when trying to conserve it.

I agree, Hayams' quote helps to highlight how each part of time is needed to create integrity in many different aspects such as culture, ecology, and ethical fields as you mentioned.

Additionally, your argument helps us reconsider how we should proceed with nature conservation. It is easy to see nature only in the present because there are so many different pieces to consider when dealing with it, we forget about the history. Your example of reintroducing wolves to Yellowstone shows how important it is to understand past ecological relations to prevent errors and further issues. If we do not take into account the historical facts and patterns, we are at risk of missing key information about the dynamics of the ecosystem as a whole.

Historical Integrity

“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).

This quote has many layers to it, let's start to peel them back.

Hyam’s quote is arguing that there is no value of something because it is ancient, it inherits merit by understanding the history. Without being aware of history, we have the possibility of losing the desirability of what makes something truly worth something.

It begins with stating that age alone does not make an item valuable. Imagine you were walking into an antique store and seeing an old wooden desk for sale that is priced at $300. Your immediate reaction might be disbelief. Why would anyone pay so much money for an ordinary worn-out desk? But, what if you discovered that the same desk once belonged to Anne Frank, or the last remaining desk from a historic event, such as the first city hall in Winnipeg? Suddenly, the desk that we first thought to be overpriced, is now priceless.

Why? Because it now has historical integrity by being connected to a much larger event that has deeper meaning beyond the physical desk.

Hyam further proposes that by ignoring or brushing off history is to be dishonest to ourselves. He explains that when we are on a train, and we pass the train station it does not exit once we leave. Obviously, we know that the train station is still there, it was there before we passed it, and it will stay the same after we leave.

Modern day, people live in a world that is fast-paced that is driven by new technologies that tend to outshine history. I think this quote from David McCullough helps underline the importance of why we need to remember and how history creates merit.

“We need the past for our sense of who we are. We need the past for a sense of our civic responsibility, how all these benets and freedoms came to us, and what it is our duty to protect.”

(David McCullough)

To tie it all together, McCullough highlights the importance of remembering and learning from the past and with those narratives we can avoid making the same mistakes. In addition, Hyam reminds us that just because we cannot physically see the history, does not mean it is not there or unimportant. Integrity in history is about maintaining these connections of the past to continue to shape our future.

References

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

#history #remember #learning

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Science and Nature Interpretation: Blurring the lines

Nature through science is how we as students have learned to interpret what we see around us. From a young age we are taught how to classify animals into distinct categories, name animals using scientific names derived from the latin language that very few speak today. While this system of classification is essential for scientific understanding, it often creates a barrier between people and the natural world. As environmental science students, we are challenged to think beyond rigid classifications and instead consider new ways to engage with the world around us. Instead of solely focusing on memorization, we can interpret nature through storytelling, sensory experiences, and personal connections. For example, watching a bird’s flight pattern or understanding the role of a specific tree in an ecosystem can be just as meaningful as knowing its scientific name.

Nature interpretation should be about accessibility and engagement. By incorporating different approaches, whether scientific, artistic, or experiential, we can make environmental education more inclusive. However, to communicate with the general public, there are many ways and oftentimes, interpretation comes in handy.

By translating scientific information into compelling stories, interactive experiences, and engaging discussions, we can bridge the gap between research and public understanding. A walk through a forest, for example, becomes much more meaningful when we don’t just list the names of trees but instead explain how they communicate through their root systems, how they support wildlife, or even share the cultural significance of certain species.

Podcasts, videos, and blogs also serve as powerful tools for nature interpretation. A well-crafted podcast episode can transport listeners into a rainforest, allowing them to hear the distant calls of birds and the rustling of leaves, making them feel immersed in an environment they may never visit in person. Blogs can highlight environmental issues in an accessible way, weaving facts with personal reflections and storytelling to make them relatable.

The Wild is one of my favourite podcasts. Host Chris Moran explores wild places all around the world. By weaving engaging content in an enjoyable way, I learn about animals, ecosystems and the scientists working tirelessly to protect them.

Ultimately, the goal of nature interpretation is not just to share knowledge but to foster a deeper connection with the environment. Scientific accuracy is important, but engagement and accessibility are equally crucial in inspiring action and appreciation for the natural world. Finding ways to relate new scientific findings to the public is very important, and by blurring the lines between the two, we can ensure that as many people are hearing and learning about the issues that the natural world faces.

In the end, effective nature interpretation is about making science feel less like a lecture and more like an invitation—an invitation to explore, question, and connect with the world around us.

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Hi Anik!

Your blog was both very informative and effective in explaining the public's need for nature interpretation. I agree that while scientific classification is important, it can create a barrier between people and the natural world. Storytelling, personal experiences, and interactive models can help people overcome that barrier by making nature feel more engaging and relatable.

I particularly enjoyed your mention of The Wild podcast and how it makes learning more enjoyable for you. It is a great example of how science can be communicated, and we can bridge the gap between science and people. For our podcast project, we can take inspiration from Chris Moran's approach to make our discussions more immersive and engaging to a variety of audiences.

Your idea that nature interpretation should not feel like a lecture, but rather an invitation. By making science more engaging and accessible to people, we can help further connections to nature.

I also think your emphasis of using a variety of different ways to share nature interpretations, such as videos or interactive experiences, highlights how environmental education can become more inclusive. It will be a step in the right direction towards integrating scientific findings into nature for the public. By doing so, we can inspire the public to be more curious and passionate about nature.

I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts this week! Your post is a reminder that appreciating nature is not measured by knowledge, but taking responsibility for the nature in our world.

#community #science #nature #podcast

Random but Relevant

This week, we were given the opportunity to write about our thoughts. I wanted to share some information from my cardiology class that I found extremely interesting! During our last lecture, my professor explained how natural medicine poses a major risk for inducing heart conditions, and the public remains largely misled by strategic advertising.

Unit 5 has expressed that interpreting nature through science does not have to require the memorization of every single plant, their chemical compounds, and their effects. While for students or scientists, that may be the goal, for the public, the role of nature interpreters should be to translate complex science into accessible knowledge.

Here's a little background information from my lecture… Modern day medicine uses glycosides, a class of compounds beneficial for treating heart failure. Medications such as digoxin or digitalis are used clinically to help regulate the function of a diseased heart. However, similar compounds are found in natural substances in toad secretions and honey, that are used by different cultures to treat a wide variety of conditions from gastric pain to hypertension.

Mad Honey is derived from the Rhododendron plant found across Europe and Southern America. Some cultures have historically used it as a natural remedy, and it has been proven to have potential health benefits, but in modern times, Mad Honey has gained popularity for an entirely different reason. It is marketed as an aphrodisiac and performance-enhancing supplement.

Because of these findings, shady vendors sell Mad Honey at a premium price, advertising it as a natural sexual enhancer. It is now available in convenience stores and online, despite the documented dangers.

At a molecular level, Mad Honey contains grayanotoxin, which directly interferes with the sodium channels throughout the body. In simple terms, this can impair muscle function, and most importantly, heart muscle! In class we learned how overconsumption can be lethal by prolonging depolarization leading to bradycardia and hypotension. This essentially means that the heart begins to stop beating and provides proper blood flow for the body. Additionally, it has been studied to have a more toxic effect when produced and harvested in the spring.

Is this common knowledge? No.

Are the risks and side effects available online? Yes.

But, people still continue to fall for the misconception that natural substances are harmless! The reality is, if uneducated nature can be equally dangerous as it is beneficial, Mad Honey is just one of the many examples of how misinterpretation can be dangerous.

I’ve attached an article highlighting different sources or types of Mad Honey and their effects for those interested.

Shout out to Dr. Pyle for always keeping us on our toes, never a dull moment in cardiology!

Ullah, S., Khan, S. U., Saleh, T. A., & Fahad, S. (2018, May 22). Mad honey: Uses, intoxicating/poisoning effects, diagnosis, and treatment. RSC advances. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9080652/

#nature #honey #cardiology #false advertising

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Who am I to Interpret Nature Through Art?

After reading Chapter 5 and the course notes, I struggle to answer the question; Who am I to interpret nature through art? Do I have the capability to interpret nature through art? Can I do it effectively? Is there a right way? So many questions.

In high school, I took visual art every year. Does that make me qualified? Probably not. However, I have learned that art is a form of expression, usually created to influence an audience's interpretations while allowing freedom for personalization. Art is about engagement, perspective, and creativity. I may not be an expert, but I am an observer and capable of interpreting nature through art.

I mentioned in a previous blog post that my Grandma gave me a sense of belonging in nature and fostered a strong relationship with it. One summer, her garden of sunflowers did not bloom as well as she had hoped. So, as a birthday present, I painted her the last bloom to remind her not to focus on one summer's bloom. To you and other outsiders, interpreting nature in this painting might be less personal, but it would showcase the physical aspects of nature and the beauty it holds. For my Grandma, however, it can be interpreted in many more themes, such as hope and warmth that she can hold onto until the next season.

According to Chapter 5 of our textbook readings, the role of the interpreter in art and nature is not to present information to an audience but rather to create inspiration, allowing them to connect with their thoughts and seek their own perspective. Rather than presenting cold facts, we should allow individuals to develop a connection with their perspective and thoughts (I’d like to think my painting achieved this goal for my Grandma). The textbook teaches us that guiding nature must focus on generating ideas of inspiration rather than mere information. Mills states, “People are out for recreation and need restful, intellectual visions—not dull, dry facts, rules, and manuals.”

As a nature interpreter, our main goal is to help visitors leave the park or museum with a new, unique perspective that has not been experienced before. Much like an artist providing their audience with art pieces that can be seen through different lenses, giving each view a distinct feeling, experience, and perspective of the natural world. As an audience, our goal is to find meaning and beauty through nature in art.

So, to answer the question, Who are you to interpret nature through art? My answer is, no one, because you don't need to be qualified to find meaning and passion in artwork.

References

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

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Hey Shelby!

I just came across your post and I really appreciate the depth and thought you put into it. Your reflection on whether one needs to be "qualified" to interpret nature through art is something I also considered while working through this week's readings. The idea that interpretation is about inspiration rather than simply presenting facts (Beck et al., 2018) aligns well with how you described your painting for your Grandma. It’s a great example of how art carries different meanings depending on the viewer’s personal experiences, but I also believe that is exactly the point!

I also really liked your final point, "My answer is, no one, because you don't need to be qualified to find meaning and passion in artwork”. This spoke to me the most because it highlights how interpretation isn’t about expertise but connection, a point I also made in my post. Art, like nature, is deeply personal, and everyone brings their own perspective to it. That freedom to see, feel, and interpret in unique ways is what makes art so powerful.

Do you think art is more powerful when it holds personal meaning, like your painting for your Grandma, or when it’s open to broad interpretation?

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/reader/books/9781571678669

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Hi,

To answer your question, is art more powerful when it holds personal meaning or when open to broad interpretation?

Personally, I think a combination of both! Having personal meanings creates a connection to the art and allows for in-depth reflection or expression of feelings. When a piece is open to broad interpretation, it is obviously more inclusive, but it could have the possibility of inflicting personal memories and creating a more meaningful interpretation for the viewer.

I'd like to think that sunflowers are special between my Grandma and me, but it would be even more special to share my work with our class and have my peers interpret the painting in a personal way. In general, art, to me, is capable of bringing back old memories or feelings, which is very moving as audience members.

In short, I think art is most powerful when it holds both!

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Blog 4

Who are you to interpret nature through art?

I would consider myself an observer in relation to nature through art. I am not very artistic but I find myself taking many photos of nature almost every time I’m outdoors. I have countless photos of everything from sunrises to sunsets. I think that is my way of using art to interpret nature. I often look back at all of the photos I have taken and appreciate nature’s beauty. I have always used nature as a way to destress and I find it calming to look back at the photos. I love taking photos because to me they hold memories and I can notice how much changes in the nature around us over the years, seasons, and just day by day. I think photos allow me to truly interpret nature at a greater depth.

These are some photos of nature I have taken this past year that bring me feelings of calmness, peace and remind me of some amazing memories.

How do you interpret “the gift of beauty”?

I think beauty can be found in many areas of life. I don’t think beauty is subjected to only looks and I think everyone’s definition of beauty and what they consider beautiful can be different. In my opinion, beauty can be found in almost everything around us and can help us truly appreciate all that life and nature have to offer. As I mentioned above, I take photos of nature all the time and I take these when I see something I consider beautiful, this is how I capture the beauty of nature through art. I personally think beauty is a gift because in terms of nature, it allows us to recognize how amazing the trees, water, sun, and the earth are. When we see sunsets or things in nature we consider beautiful, it evokes many feelings and memories which is a gift in itself. This week’s readings mentioned that we capture photos of nature because we find something beautiful in the moment.

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Hi Kayla,

First of all, your photography is amazing. Anyone can interpret nature through art in their own way. It doesn’t always have to rely on facts and knowledge. Finding our own meanings and feelings for nature should be personal. Art doesn’t have to be defined as paint on a canvas; it can be so much more. Art is a form of expression that allows us to portray memories, emotions, and meaning.

Who are we to interpret nature through art? You mentioned observers, but I think that requires us to comprehend and appreciate the art, which sounds a lot like interpreting. Photography is a great way to interpret nature through art because it remains untouched and can be shared with audiences. As you noted, your pictures hold emotions and memories that bring you peace and allow you to remember the feeling of standing before the scenery. Interpreting nature is bringing meaning to the feelings and sights nature brings us. By using photography, you take moments and translate them into your own story and emotions.

By interpreting nature we can deepen our connection and appreciate it, which is a privilege.

So, who are we to interpret nature through art? After reading your blog, I believe we are observers, listeners, and collectors of moments. And maybe that makes us interpreters.

#photography #sunset #artwork #expression #existence

Who am I to Interpret Nature Through Art?

So, to answer the question, Who are you to interpret nature through art? My answer is, no one, because you don't need to be qualified to find meaning and passion in artwork.

References

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

#flowers #nature #artwork #sunflower #passion #community #creating inspiration

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Blog 3

Privilege is a complicated term and honestly, a tricky one to give a proper definition to. In my opinion, it is that complicated but invisible side of life that shapes our experiences and the opportunities we get in ways that sometimes, we might not even notice. My journey in Guelph in the past few years has given me a clearer understanding of what privilege truly means to me. I am an international student from India who moved to Canada 3.5 years ago.

When I first moved here as an international student, life felt very different. Afterall, I had to make my own home away from home and like many international students, I lived in a shared house, worked a part time job, tried to balance part time with schoolwork and constantly missed my family. However, everything changed when coincidentally, my family moved here a year later. Now, I live in my own house here in Guelph, drive my own car and enjoy my mom’s home-cooked meals everyday. I do sometimes forget to appreciate these privileges that I have but there are moments when I realize how blessed I am as compared to other international students around me who are still dealing with daily struggles of their lives while missing their families who are miles away from them. And now when I think about all this, I believe that I have started to understand the true meaning of privilege better. Being ‘privileged’ is not about having everything you want, it is about the support your family gives you, the opportunities you create for yourself and last but not the least, the peace that comes along with all that.

Like I mentioned in my first blog, I grew up in Delhi. A megacity where being surrounded by nature or experiencing fresh air in the middle of the day was a ‘privilege’ I was devoid of. Still, my parents always tried their best to take us on trips where we could experience the stillness of a river, beauty of a sunset, and peace and quiet of the mountains. Even though these moments were short lived, but they were more than what others living in Delhi could experience. Those moments created a special place in my memory without me even realizing it. And this made me understand the fact the sometimes, the way we connect with and interpret nature depends on our circumstances. People who live in small towns or areas with more outdoor activities will always have a different way of interpreting nature as compared to people living in cities like Delhi because they have a consistent access to natural spaces. Also, privilege like the way my parents gave me helped me to somewhere build my connection with nature, but at the same time, I also understand that others from urban, immigrant, or low-income backgrounds may lack that.

This is why I believe that that the focus of nature interpretation should also shift towards inclusion and set a goal of making nature more accessible for everyone no matter what background they come from. And it can all start with taking steps as small as making nature a part of our daily conversations, reducing the costs of transportation or sharing a ride to public parks.

Having privilege doesn’t have to come with feelings of guilt; instead, it should stir the feelings of gratitude and empathy, bringing forward a reminder that it can be used to help others connect with nature in meaningful ways.

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Hi Simreen,

Your interpretation of privilege was very touching. I could not imagine moving overseas without my family, you are so brave! I find myself taking my privilege for granted of only being a 45-minute drive away from my family, as well as going to University with some of my hometown friends. Reading your journey made me reflect on my life experiences and I am so grateful. It is very modest that you recognize your blessings and I am sure others can use them to empathize with you if they are navigating similar experiences. Your self-awareness is an important step in understanding privilege, by remembering to encourage gratitude and empathy. It must have been wonderful to have your family join you in Canada. I totally agree, privilege is definitely more than materialistic items and wealth.

Making nature accessible to everyone, regardless of background, is an important goal. Your suggestions of incorporating nature into daily conversations, reducing transportation costs, and sharing rides would greatly impact those without the same privileges we have here in Guelph. These small steps can create the way for a large cultural shift toward inclusivity and equity in how we interact with nature in our communities.

Your closing thought, that privilege should inspire gratitude and empathy, is very moving. It serves as a reminder that privilege can be acknowledged and used with intention, and can become a tool in our own ‘invisible knapsack’ for creating opportunities and connections for others.

Overlooked Privileges in Nature Interpretation

Nature interpretation, like many other jobs, involves different privileges among individuals. It forms a community for people to connect over their interest and curiosity of nature. How does the role of privilege play a role in this field? Privilege influences all aspects of people engaging in nature interpretation, from the interpreter themselves, the accessibility to it, and the ability to be included in the community.

I would define privilege as advantages, special rights, and opportunities granted at birth, based on race, gender, financial status, and culture. I like to think of this as a ‘birth lottery’, we don't get to choose the circumstances we are born into, but they shape our lives. Peggy McIntosh explained the concept of carrying an “invisible knapsack” of tools of unearned advantages to help them through life without realizing it. Generally speaking, privilege needs to be addressed and recognized to reach equality for all. The invisible knapsack can include tools such as access to good education, safe outdoor spaces, and the ability to explore nature. These privileges can be stepping stones to becoming nature interpreters.

For starters, basic access to nature and safe environments is a privilege that can be easily taken for granted. Such as walking through forest trails, camping, or even enjoying the playground as children. But for some people, geographic, financial, or cultural barriers make it difficult to experience nature. Individuals who grow up in big cities with small green spaces and a lack of outdoor activities may have issues forming a connection with nature. So if they are viewing a nature interpretation of huge mountains far outside their city, it can be hard to overcome the barrier of lacking personal experience. If I found myself reading a nature interpreter's experience of rain forests, I would have a hard time relating and truly understanding aspects of the habitat.

In my first blog post, I mentioned how I was surrounded by nature throughout my childhood, and now. I would not have thought these local trails and greenspaces were such a great privilege I was blessed with. Additionally, my parents have allowed my family to experience a variety of environments, such as fields in France, or low cliffs in Portugal. I have been extremely privileged to be able to personally experience and relate to nature interpreters of these beautiful landscapes.

Hopefully, after reading my post you readers will be able to reflect and be thankful for their own privileges, as well as find empathy for others without. Now that we are more educated about privilege, we can work together to spread awareness that nature is for everyone!! So next time you are interpreting nature for yourself or through an interpreter's work, remember all of the privileges that allow us to experience these amazing opportunities.

References

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

#nature #opportunities #privilege #inclusivity

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