Introduction

In a groundbreaking initiative that began last fall, "An Aesthetics of Resilience" is forging a unique collaboration between UC Santa Cruz’s Institute of the Arts and Sciences (IAS) and the Friedlaender Lab. This research project aims to address the profound vulnerabilities we face as our climate continues to change, blending artistic expression with scientific inquiry.

Research and Artistic Contributions

This innovative project not only funds dynamic research across the arts and sciences but has also launched three scientific studies dedicated to understanding environmental changes and their implications for marine mammals. Additionally, it has led to the commissioning of seven new artworks that enrich the wider social, economic, and ecological narratives surrounding these scientific investigations. By creating a space for artists, scientists, and scholars to engage in thoughtful dialogue, the initiative encourages discussions on pressing issues—from the ethics of invasive research methods to emerging biocredit markets.

Hands-On Learning and Fieldwork

A significant aspect of "An Aesthetics of Resilience" is its commitment to hands-on learning for artists, allowing them to witness the nuances of scientific data collection firsthand. This summer, artists Carolina Caycedo and Suné Woods traveled to Colombia to support Dr. Natalia Botero-Acosta, one of the project's postdoctoral researchers, in her humpback whale surveys in the Gulf of Tribugá.

Transnational Perspectives on Climate Resilience

While the project is rooted in the climate resilience of California, its focus on marine mammals invites a broader, transnational perspective. The whales observed in Colombia migrate thousands of miles to Antarctica for the winter, highlighting the necessity of understanding ecological systems that transcend borders. Dr. Ari Friedlaender emphasizes the importance of tracking these migratory behaviors: "By assessing the long-distance journeys of these whales, we can better understand their risks and adaptive strategies in changing ecosystems."

Community and Artistic Insights

Caycedo and Woods's experience alongside Dr. Botero-Acosta allowed them to glean insights into the interplay between local communities and marine life that shapes scientific research. Woods reflected on the patience required for whale surveying, profoundly noting, "I learned so much from being on the water, waiting and observing with all my senses." She was particularly moved by the vibrant sense of community she observed in Coquí, where residents gather each year to honor the whales and celebrate their interconnectedness through communal rituals.

Collaboration Beyond Traditional Science

Both Friedlaender and Botero-Acosta recognize that this collaboration transcends traditional scientific discourse, bringing fresh perspectives and creative thinking to the fore. Botero-Acosta stated, “Seeing everything through the eyes of artists provides an enriching outlook that invites us to question established scientific methods.” Friedlaender echoed this sentiment, highlighting how artists' diverse backgrounds ignite innovative ideas and inquiries that scientists may not have previously considered.

Conclusion and Future Plans

The culmination of this interdisciplinary effort will be documented in an upcoming catalog and showcased in a highly anticipated exhibition at the Institute of the Arts and Sciences from May to December 2025. As we confront the growing climate crisis, "An Aesthetics of Resilience" stands as a powerful reminder of the potential for collaboration between art and science, nurturing a deeper understanding of our world and our collective responsibility to it.