Expressions of Intent for International Polar Year 2007-2008 Activities

Expression of Interest Details

PROPOSAL INFORMATION

‘Art of the Ocean’ Exhibition of jewellery inspired by plankton of the Southern Ocean.  (Art of the Ocean)

Outline
A former Antarctic Research scientist turned artist, Dr Karin Beaumont, has created wearable art and jewellery inspired by microscopic plankton to educate the public about microscopic marine life from the Southern Ocean and the threats posed by climate change. In a unique exhibition ‘Art of the Ocean’, science and art come together displaying beauty, creativity and education at the Bay Discovery Centre, Glenelg, South Australia. With precious metals, pearls, aluminium, and acrylic, Karin explores the intricate details of planktonic form and function, inviting the viewer to discover the beauty and importance of these creatures in polar environments through personal adornment. Educational panels relay both the science and the making behind her works, encouraging the audience to stop, think and question the beauty in our world and our role in protecting it for future generations. By creating wearable art she hopes her works and their stories have the ability to reach audiences far and wide. Through her current practise she explores the nexus between science and art as communicators for environmental health and education. Dr Karin Beaumont will give an 'artist talk' on Thursday 7 June at 5.30 pm prior to the opening of the exhibition at 6.30 pm at the Mezzanine Gallery, Bay Discovery Centre, Holdfast Bay, South Australia. The exhibition runs from 8 June to 2 August 2007.

What significant advance(s) in relation to the IPY themes and targets can be anticipated from this project?
The dissemination of knowledge to a diverse audience, via creative and innovative use of artistic media, about Antarctic and Southern Ocean plankton, their vital role in our ecosystem and sensitivity of these polar creatures to impacts of change.

What international collaboration is involved in this project?
Images of the art-works will be displayed as part of ‘Worlds Plankton’ 7-8 June 2007 a World Oceans Day Event. Worlds Plankton has many international partners (Belgium, Ukraine, Bolivia, Vietnam, Saint Pierre et Miquelon…) and the inclusion of images from Australia will mark Australia’s first participation in this event linking Australia and France. Images will be displayed at the Worlds Plankton conference, Oceanopolis-Brest as well as included on the website http://www.plancton-du-monde.com

FIELD ACTIVITY DETAILS

Geographical location(s) for the proposed field activities:
Not applicable. The exhibition will be held at the Bay Discovery Centre, Glenelg, South Australia.

Approximate timeframe(s) for proposed field activities:
Arctic: n/a
Antarctic: n/a

Significant facilities will be required for this project:
n/a

Will the project leave a legacy of infrastructure?
no

How is it envisaged that the required logistic support will be secured?
Commercial operator
Own support

This project at this stage is totally self-funded with assistance from the Holdfast Bay City Council via the Bay Discovery Centre. Funds for future touring of this exhibition would be welcomed! Worlds Plankton expressed interest in having such an exhibition in France in 2008.

Has the project been "endorsed" at a national or international level?
Yes - The exhibition has been endorsed by the Bay Discovery Centre, Glenelg, South Australia.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND STRUCTURE

Is the project a short-term expansion (over the IPY 2007-2008 timeframe) of an existing plan, programme or initiative or is it a new autonomous proposal?
Yes

An independent exhibition

How will the project be organised and managed?
Project organised by the artist Dr Karin Beaumont and jointly managed with Marianne Norman, Bay Discovery Centre.

What are the initial plans of the project for addressing the education, outreach and communication issues outlined in the Framework document?
The major intent of the exhibition is education / outreach through public exhibition of art work, interpretive scientific posters, playing of a DVD at the exhibition and education via the Bay Discovery Centre – an educational museum.

What are the initial plans of the project to address data management issues (as outlined in the Framework document?
n/a

How is it proposed to fund the project?
Self-funded at this stage.

Is there additional information you wish to provide?
None

PROPOSER DETAILS

Dr Karin Beaumont
Oceanides, PO Box 11
Margate, Tasmania
7054
Australia

Tel: +61 3 6267 1258
Mobile: no
Fax: no
Email:

Other project members and their affiliation