Bridget at ANI. Photo by Danielle Devincenzi
Bridget was part of four artists that spent a few days completely immersed in the world of Año Nuevo Island alongside the Oikonos’ team, with one goal in mind: to use their artistic skills to portray the life of the island through their work.
Her work, alongside other artists’, will be showcased at the art exhibition “The Winged Sentinels of Monterey Bay” at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center on July 7th.
Learn more about the free event here, you’re invited!
“It was exhilarating to land on an island I’d never been to and come face to face with a bird that was also completely new to me, the Pigeon Guillemot. I took some time to explore the island first, then took photos and made a series of sketches and paintings that captured the island and the animals. The best experience for me was getting to see a Cassin’s Auklet chick! The opportunity to see the methods used to research seabird chicks was truly eye-opening for me.” -Bridget
What led you to do art for conservation/science purposes?
“Nature has often inspired my art, and I think that by working in collaboration with the science community, art can inspire engagement with the natural world and encourage further action to conserve it.”
How did you capture the island with your art?
“I took photos and made landscape paintings that I felt could capture the island: the historic buildings, cliffs, animals, waves, and view of the main shore. I learned that if I stayed quiet and still, the gulls and cormorants would let me make sketches that captured their behavior, interactions, and even how they build nests.”
Initial sketches by Bridget
What did you learn about natural history on the island?
“I liked seeing how different species formed communities and coexisted in a small habitat. The gulls even managed to utilize the space under the boardwalks for their nests.”
Which seabird made the biggest impression on you and why?
“The adorable Pigeon Guillemot. Their contrasting black and white plumage and bright red mouth and feet make them a fun subject to illustrate.”
Where can you find Bridget’s work?
Find Bridget on Instagram as @bridget.ilona
See more of her work and other artists at “The Winged Sentinels of Monterey Bay”. There will be food, drinks, and contests! All ages are welcome. More information here.
Learn more about the importance of scientific illustration here.
June 15th, 2023