Get free updates on Life & Arts by subscribing! Our myFT Daily Digest email will keep you informed about the latest news in this field every morning. Lately, I’ve been captivated by the occurrences of orcas colliding with boats off the Iberian coast. This phenomenon, which has been ongoing since 2020, has puzzled scientists who still can’t determine whether these interactions are playful or aggressive. It’s a captivating story because it reveals a new level of autonomy in orcas, unsettling the notion that humans have complete control over other species.
Furthermore, my recent immersion in a book called “Undrowned: Black Feminist Lessons from Marine Mammals” by Alexis Pauline Gumbs has further expanded my perspective on our relationship with the ocean and its inhabitants. Gumbs, a queer black activist and scholar, explores how the study of marine mammals can guide us in addressing issues of justice, healing, and caring for ourselves and the world. She highlights the importance of vulnerability, collaboration, and adaptation in the face of the climate crisis, emphasizing the rising tides as a significant change we must confront.
It has always been invaluable to embrace curiosity and open-mindedness when it comes to learning from sources that challenge our preconceived notions. “Undrowned” has led me to reflect on the beautiful and adaptable ways of living amidst our increasingly uncertain times. This requires us to recognize and respect the ways in which animals exist, acknowledging that we have much to learn from them. However, this mindset can be challenging when we are raised in cultures that view animals primarily as resources for human use.
Gumbs opens her book with a poignant tale of the Steller’s sea cow, a creature that was “discovered” in the 18th century but went extinct within a few decades due to human hunting. She argues that the act of discovery puts animals in danger, prompting us to consider how we can listen and learn from them across species, even in the face of extinction and harm.
Turning to art, Henri Matisse’s painting “Woman Before an Aquarium” captures my attention. This artwork, created in 1923, combines elements of Matisse’s interest in painting women, his fascination with Islamic culture, and his recurring portrayal of goldfish in his art. The painting depicts a woman deep in thought, gazing at goldfish swimming in a bowl. The presence of pine cones and branches in the scene reminds me of our tendency to try and tame and control nature to suit our needs. It raises questions about our treatment of animals, especially when we domesticate smaller creatures while disregarding the needs and freedom of larger ones.
In a similar vein, I am profoundly moved by John William Hill’s print “Capturing a Sperm Whale.” This print, based on an 1835 oil painting by William Page, portrays the brutal attack on a sperm whale by whalers. The whale’s immense body struggles against the harpoons embedded in its sides, symbolizing humanity’s persistent desire to conquer and control the wild and flourishing aspects of nature. It serves as a reminder of the harm we inflict upon ourselves when we attempt to dominate the natural world.
Every action we take on a smaller scale has an impact on the greater whole, whether we realize it or not. This applies to all aspects of our lives. The more informed we are, the more consciously we can make decisions that align with our values and respect for the environment. It never ceases to amaze me how expanding our awareness and knowledge can profoundly shape our perspectives and actions.
Another artwork that resonates with me is Lavanya Mani’s “The Ark.” Inspired by the biblical story of Noah’s ark, the textile painting showcases an array of animals inhabiting a vibrant ecosystem. Birds, fishes, and marine creatures populate the artwork, demanding our attention and admiration. The absence of humans highlights the natural balance and interdependence within this ecosystem, urging us to recognize, respect, and care for it. “The Ark” underscores the depths of communication and vitality beneath the surface of the ocean, a realm that we often take for granted.
In essence, both “Undrowned” and these art pieces remind us of the awe-inspiring complexity and interconnectedness of the natural world. They prompt us to transcend our limited perspectives and embrace a more expansive understanding of our place within it. By doing so, we can foster a sense of harmony and coexistence with other species and nurture a healthier planet for all.
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