This project has as it's basis research into environmental aesthetics and deep ecology. Individuals within this field argue that rather than stressing the preservation of individual species to the public highlight the environment and beauty of the landscape in which these species live. People are more connected to the natural environment than a disconnected set of species and are more likely to preserve the "beauty of nature" as part of their environment - or so the theory goes.
As part of this research we are examining 19th century landscape painting and the cultural and philosophical ideas behind these images. One theme that the work is based on is the idea of Manifest Destiny. Painters like Albert Beirstadt promoted the movement west and the availability of "endless" resources that were there by creating these extravagant landscape painting of places like Yosemite. This art promoted an exploitation of nature and resources. Thus, with this project we intend to turn this philosophy on its head.
We will go to sites where there are endangered or threatened species - especially those with encroaching development. At those sites we will photograph the landscape where these species live and create very grand beautiful and seductive large-scale photographic images - much like the work of 19th century landscape painters. Once the images are ready, we will take them to communities - perhaps as an exhibition or public presentation to prompt a discussion about the preservation of the land. We will argue that development needs open space for leisure activity and that their property would look out onto these open spaces, which would increase its value. The hope is that developers would then create higher density housing that leave open space. This seems like a lofty goal - the immediate goal would be to create a dialog about these spaces within growing communities.
Currently, the group is looking at Livermore as a starting point because of the endangered red-legged frog and tiger salamander whose habitat in this area is targeted for development.
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