Could You Briefly Explain The Driving Force/Motivation Behind Your Work?

My background is in marine ecology and anthropology, so I’m a scientist by training. While I was working on my PhD studying coral reefs in Cuba, and spearfishers in The Bahamas, I got a National Geographic grant to incorporate photography into my research. I bought an underwater case for my camera and I started taking images of the incredible ecosystems I was visiting, and the people enmeshed with them. My images and videos were seeing a lot of enthusiasm and engagement. Given that film is the most powerful medium we have to push social change, I decided I should probably make a career change, and dedicate my life to telling stories about the environment, and the scientists and conservationists that are working to protect it. I’m dedicated to telling stories that go against the grain of typical nature documentaries, incorporating strong character-driven narratives, and incorporating diverse art forms like poetry, music, and fashion, to draw unconventional audiences into the world of nature storytelling. Through every aspect of my practice, I’m dedicated to telling stories that encourage activism and healing for the benefit of all beings everywhere.

Where/How Has Your Work Engaged With Systems Or Transformative Change-Making?

Some of my work is quite abstract. Other projects are impact-oriented, and address very real environmental problems, attempting to suggest scientifically informed solutions through powerful visuals. One such project is my most recent National Geographic Storytelling grant in Mo’orea, French Polynesia.

How Can The Transformations Community Support Your Work?

I’d love to connect with those working in the arts and sciences to find sources of support for storytelling projects that highlight groundbreaking and inspiring work around environmental conservation. The more we can visualize these stories, the closer we come to creating the thriving world we all want to live in.