Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
"Fear of the Familiar"
By Sara Putman (04/20/10 15:49:11)
As an artist, this article almost makes me feel guilty for owning a "pet," let alone a dog, since it is seen as an "improper animal." Although the argument against the domestication of animals is understandable, especially from an artists point of view, I couldn't imagine my life without my pets who I've grown so close. I believe that by having them close in my life, they have helped me to better understand and respect our differences, as well as seeing the negative effect of projecting similarities like most humans tend to do. The postmodern artist tends to act against making the non-human more human-like.
However, I do agree that it is our selfish nature that has domesticated the animal (dog and cat) in the first place. We have acquired pets in order to give us company and to fulfill our need to care for, yet control them. After all, according to the text, "pets are creatures of their owner's way of life." Postmodern artists fear what "pets" represent because their individual self-image can be seen in the cynical view that having sympathy for pets leads to a perversion of their natural behavior. Therefore, the representative "natural behavior" and "raw environments" are what makes the artist want to make art in the first place.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Sara Putman (04/20/10 15:49:11)
As an artist, this article almost makes me feel guilty for owning a "pet," let alone a dog, since it is seen as an "improper animal." Although the argument against the domestication of animals is understandable, especially from an artists point of view, I couldn't imagine my life without my pets who I've grown so close. I believe that by having them close in my life, they have helped me to better understand and respect our differences, as well as seeing the negative effect of projecting similarities like most humans tend to do. The postmodern artist tends to act against making the non-human more human-like.
However, I do agree that it is our selfish nature that has domesticated the animal (dog and cat) in the first place. We have acquired pets in order to give us company and to fulfill our need to care for, yet control them. After all, according to the text, "pets are creatures of their owner's way of life." Postmodern artists fear what "pets" represent because their individual self-image can be seen in the cynical view that having sympathy for pets leads to a perversion of their natural behavior. Therefore, the representative "natural behavior" and "raw environments" are what makes the artist want to make art in the first place.
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
"Grizzly Man"
By Tessa Tapscott (04/26/13 16:09:39)
Related animals: Grizzly Bear, Human
In class last week we discussed people that try to own or live with dangerous animals, this made me think of the film, Grizzly Man, which I finally watched recently. The movie by Werner Herzog follows the tumultuous life of Alaska’s resident recluse, Timothy Treadwell. Treadwell spent 13 summers in the Alaska wilderness living with and trying to protect grizzly bears. He became like the bears, moving like them, making noises like them, marking his territory, standing his ground. He began to take video equipment with him on these trips in order to document his travels and the shed light on the plight of the Alaskan grizzly bear. All this footage was found at the site of his death.
While much of the documentary is made up of his own work, there are also many interviews with his friends, family, colleagues and critics. One comment each one of them makes is that Treadwell became “like a bear” in his personality and mannerisms, some believed that this lead to his imminent demise. A member of the local Native American tribe described the way in which he sought to become a bear to be almost insulting to the bears as separate beings. His culture teaches that the bears should be respected and honored as wild animals, humans should not try to infiltrate their sacred habitat, nor should they try to act as them. Treadwell felt that the only way to help the bears was to try to understand every aspect of their lives and the best way to do this was to live like they do. To him, even organizations trying to help the bears were not doing enough and he felt personally insulted that the plight of the bears were not taken more seriously.
In the end he pushed his luck over the limit by staying out in the wilderness past the time that he usually would, as the seasons changed new bears moved into his territory and they were far less accepting of Treadwell’s antics than the regular group of bears he came in contact with. One particularly ferocious bear attacked Treadwell and his girlfriend, whom had accompanied him on this trip. Their pilot found both of their bodies several days later, along with a camera that recorded the their final cries for help.
The film was haunting because you know Treadwell’s fate from the beginning, but you have to watch his steady progression towards this end. While many viewed Treadwell as fanatical or even slightly insane his passion and love for not just the bears, but all wildlife is apparent in his footage. One must respect his drive to go out there and do what he loves not mattered what or who might try to stop him from doing so. Yet, I also agree with the Native American from the film, perhaps his approach was too invasive and too extreme, it predetermined his death. The way to save the bears is to get others to see that there is a problem, but Treadwell’s character alienated most humans, especially those whose opinions he wanted to change. While death at the paws of his most treasured creature was probably one of the greatest deaths he could have hoped for, it did not benefit his cause. He needed to get his footage edited and out to people who could help improve the situation for the bears, instead he became just another crazy environmentalist that got killed. And while this film uses his footage, it is more focused on Treadwell than on the bears and does not have the intended effect that Treadwell would have hoped for. One can only hope that his close friend to whom all his video equipment was bestowed will follow through with his dream and edit the footage properly.
[Write Comment]
By Tessa Tapscott (04/26/13 16:09:39)
Related animals: Grizzly Bear, Human
In class last week we discussed people that try to own or live with dangerous animals, this made me think of the film, Grizzly Man, which I finally watched recently. The movie by Werner Herzog follows the tumultuous life of Alaska’s resident recluse, Timothy Treadwell. Treadwell spent 13 summers in the Alaska wilderness living with and trying to protect grizzly bears. He became like the bears, moving like them, making noises like them, marking his territory, standing his ground. He began to take video equipment with him on these trips in order to document his travels and the shed light on the plight of the Alaskan grizzly bear. All this footage was found at the site of his death.
While much of the documentary is made up of his own work, there are also many interviews with his friends, family, colleagues and critics. One comment each one of them makes is that Treadwell became “like a bear” in his personality and mannerisms, some believed that this lead to his imminent demise. A member of the local Native American tribe described the way in which he sought to become a bear to be almost insulting to the bears as separate beings. His culture teaches that the bears should be respected and honored as wild animals, humans should not try to infiltrate their sacred habitat, nor should they try to act as them. Treadwell felt that the only way to help the bears was to try to understand every aspect of their lives and the best way to do this was to live like they do. To him, even organizations trying to help the bears were not doing enough and he felt personally insulted that the plight of the bears were not taken more seriously.
In the end he pushed his luck over the limit by staying out in the wilderness past the time that he usually would, as the seasons changed new bears moved into his territory and they were far less accepting of Treadwell’s antics than the regular group of bears he came in contact with. One particularly ferocious bear attacked Treadwell and his girlfriend, whom had accompanied him on this trip. Their pilot found both of their bodies several days later, along with a camera that recorded the their final cries for help.
The film was haunting because you know Treadwell’s fate from the beginning, but you have to watch his steady progression towards this end. While many viewed Treadwell as fanatical or even slightly insane his passion and love for not just the bears, but all wildlife is apparent in his footage. One must respect his drive to go out there and do what he loves not mattered what or who might try to stop him from doing so. Yet, I also agree with the Native American from the film, perhaps his approach was too invasive and too extreme, it predetermined his death. The way to save the bears is to get others to see that there is a problem, but Treadwell’s character alienated most humans, especially those whose opinions he wanted to change. While death at the paws of his most treasured creature was probably one of the greatest deaths he could have hoped for, it did not benefit his cause. He needed to get his footage edited and out to people who could help improve the situation for the bears, instead he became just another crazy environmentalist that got killed. And while this film uses his footage, it is more focused on Treadwell than on the bears and does not have the intended effect that Treadwell would have hoped for. One can only hope that his close friend to whom all his video equipment was bestowed will follow through with his dream and edit the footage properly.
[Write Comment]
Other: Interspecies Communication
"The Human/Dolphin Community"
By Sara Putman (05/10/10 17:04:32)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found Nollman's explanation of co-evolution interesting: "a tenuous first step away from our human role of exploiter to the new role of treating the planet as home and neighborhood." He also points out that everything is connected to everything else, which I wholeheartedly agree with. Even though the world is made up of very different complex species, "all living creatures are remarkably related on the basic level of genes."
It was also interesting when Nollman points out that human kind needs to be realigned with nature by learning something from another species, namely the willing, large-brained dolphins. Animals lead us back to a natural balance, and "the greatest teacher demonstrates for you your own true nature."
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Sara Putman (05/10/10 17:04:32)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found Nollman's explanation of co-evolution interesting: "a tenuous first step away from our human role of exploiter to the new role of treating the planet as home and neighborhood." He also points out that everything is connected to everything else, which I wholeheartedly agree with. Even though the world is made up of very different complex species, "all living creatures are remarkably related on the basic level of genes."
It was also interesting when Nollman points out that human kind needs to be realigned with nature by learning something from another species, namely the willing, large-brained dolphins. Animals lead us back to a natural balance, and "the greatest teacher demonstrates for you your own true nature."
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
"The Man Who Talks to Whales" - Nollman's Approach to Animal Collaboration
By Katie Edwards (04/13/13 15:32:31)
Related animals: Dolphin, Human, Lion, Turkey, Whale
In Chapter 1 Nollman states that his relationship with animals has always been different than that of most people. While the other students in his science classes had no problem dissecting animals, sixteen-year-old Nollman took a stand and refused because he strongly believed animals to be equal to humans. He describes a metaphorical pedestal which most humans use to look down upon animals, yet claims they are perfectly capable of the same sentiments we are and should be respected, not belittled. I thought this description of the human-animal relationship as one of man's superiority and animal's subordination was very relatable. Although I love animals and would never wish to cause them harm, I do often treat them as cute little creatures or as pets. I act as if I am their owner rather than their equal. Believing in the possibility of animal communication requires that I stop viewing animals as entertaining or for my enjoyment and instead view them as beings with extremely intelligent and complex minds. I liked the way Nollman suggests that rather than learning about animals we should make an effort to learn from them.
Chapter 4 describes the “protocol” of various human-animal and interspecies relationships. Nollman differentiates between a protocol and a symbiosis, claiming protocol is “a social behavior established between individuals,” while symbiosis is a “physical co-dependency” between species (51-52). I found the example of the lions and the Bushmen to be intriguing. To think that lions and humans could come to a mutual understanding in which neither felt threatened or in danger is astounding. I think of lions as large, intimidating beings, and yet both the lions and the Bushmen were comfortable around each other. They understood when each should go to the watering hole, and how they should go about their daily routines in relation to the other. Once the ranchers were introduced into the scene, however, the relationship completely changed. There was no longer an understanding of how each species should act, and the confusion led to the destruction of what was once an incredible situation.
[Write Comment]
By Katie Edwards (04/13/13 15:32:31)
Related animals: Dolphin, Human, Lion, Turkey, Whale
In Chapter 1 Nollman states that his relationship with animals has always been different than that of most people. While the other students in his science classes had no problem dissecting animals, sixteen-year-old Nollman took a stand and refused because he strongly believed animals to be equal to humans. He describes a metaphorical pedestal which most humans use to look down upon animals, yet claims they are perfectly capable of the same sentiments we are and should be respected, not belittled. I thought this description of the human-animal relationship as one of man's superiority and animal's subordination was very relatable. Although I love animals and would never wish to cause them harm, I do often treat them as cute little creatures or as pets. I act as if I am their owner rather than their equal. Believing in the possibility of animal communication requires that I stop viewing animals as entertaining or for my enjoyment and instead view them as beings with extremely intelligent and complex minds. I liked the way Nollman suggests that rather than learning about animals we should make an effort to learn from them.
Chapter 4 describes the “protocol” of various human-animal and interspecies relationships. Nollman differentiates between a protocol and a symbiosis, claiming protocol is “a social behavior established between individuals,” while symbiosis is a “physical co-dependency” between species (51-52). I found the example of the lions and the Bushmen to be intriguing. To think that lions and humans could come to a mutual understanding in which neither felt threatened or in danger is astounding. I think of lions as large, intimidating beings, and yet both the lions and the Bushmen were comfortable around each other. They understood when each should go to the watering hole, and how they should go about their daily routines in relation to the other. Once the ranchers were introduced into the scene, however, the relationship completely changed. There was no longer an understanding of how each species should act, and the confusion led to the destruction of what was once an incredible situation.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
"The Man Who Talks to Whales" by Jim Nollman
By Matthew Roy Reeves (04/12/10 13:38:58)
Related animal: Whale
The Man Who Talks to Whales Jim Nollman “The Turkey Trot”
Jim Nollman introduces his artistic passion for animals by describing childhood and losing touch with personal interests. “…[W]ith each passing year the chasm between us and humans and the rest of nature grows wider and wider” (5). The animal enthusiast became distracted by human culture as he grew up, and experienced his own personal evolution. “They say that a human fetus retraces the path of evolution in its development from one-celled creature to human being…I say that the process continues long after birth, but now on the level of culture” (5). Culture diverted Nollman’s passion, but it was reclaimed, nearly as nature had intended.
Where Nollman lost touch with animals he gained prominence in the American music subculture during the 60’s and 70’s. The call to return to his passion for animals, however, ended his performing career. “…[I]t finally dawned on me that there was no glorious future awaiting me in the rock and roll business” (7). After another setback, his wayward pursuit of his passions wound up in Mexico.
The casual lifestyle Nollman experienced in Mexico prompted a different approach to music, one that focused on playing and sharing music as an element of a community…of turkeys? Here was when animals finally returned to his wandering eyes in search of his passion. Turkeys next door would respond as he played his guitar, where he then actively began practicing in response to their reactions.
“I ceased to experiment on the turkey, and instead, began to play with it” (9) Nollman’s original pursuit of learning with animals was recaptured. From turkeys in Mexico came “bobwhites in Ohio, kangaroo rats in Death Valley, and a pack of wolves at a refuge in Nevada” (14). In each relationship, Nollman incorporated the medium of music into the art of collaboration.
Interspecies collaboration defines a breaking of the human evolutionary cycle that Nollman finally experienced, and was then free to engage in his passion by learning with animals as a human. He no longer represented a member in human society, like a zoologist or musician. He was an artist exploring his species identity, just as he did as a child. With the passion reaffirmed, Nollman’s art could then commence.
[Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves (04/12/10 13:38:58)
Related animal: Whale
The Man Who Talks to Whales Jim Nollman “The Turkey Trot”
Jim Nollman introduces his artistic passion for animals by describing childhood and losing touch with personal interests. “…[W]ith each passing year the chasm between us and humans and the rest of nature grows wider and wider” (5). The animal enthusiast became distracted by human culture as he grew up, and experienced his own personal evolution. “They say that a human fetus retraces the path of evolution in its development from one-celled creature to human being…I say that the process continues long after birth, but now on the level of culture” (5). Culture diverted Nollman’s passion, but it was reclaimed, nearly as nature had intended.
Where Nollman lost touch with animals he gained prominence in the American music subculture during the 60’s and 70’s. The call to return to his passion for animals, however, ended his performing career. “…[I]t finally dawned on me that there was no glorious future awaiting me in the rock and roll business” (7). After another setback, his wayward pursuit of his passions wound up in Mexico.
The casual lifestyle Nollman experienced in Mexico prompted a different approach to music, one that focused on playing and sharing music as an element of a community…of turkeys? Here was when animals finally returned to his wandering eyes in search of his passion. Turkeys next door would respond as he played his guitar, where he then actively began practicing in response to their reactions.
“I ceased to experiment on the turkey, and instead, began to play with it” (9) Nollman’s original pursuit of learning with animals was recaptured. From turkeys in Mexico came “bobwhites in Ohio, kangaroo rats in Death Valley, and a pack of wolves at a refuge in Nevada” (14). In each relationship, Nollman incorporated the medium of music into the art of collaboration.
Interspecies collaboration defines a breaking of the human evolutionary cycle that Nollman finally experienced, and was then free to engage in his passion by learning with animals as a human. He no longer represented a member in human society, like a zoologist or musician. He was an artist exploring his species identity, just as he did as a child. With the passion reaffirmed, Nollman’s art could then commence.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Art Interspecies Collaborations
"The Man Who Talks to Whales" by Jim Nollman Ch. 10
By Danielle Terhune (05/10/10 20:22:28)
Related animal: Dolphin
“And because of their unabashed friendliness towards humans, dolphins often seem like ambassadors from the otherwise secret world of nature. Of all the wild creatures, the large-brained dolphins seem the most willing to meet us halfway.” (Nollman 145). Ask anyone who grew up in the 90s and prior and they can tell you who their favorite dolphin is...FLIPPER. We have always been taught that dolphins are the nice friendly creatures of the sea who love humans and always want to play. It seems the media was not so far off in their presentation of dolphins. I remember when I was little my parents took a trip to Hawaii and came back with a video of my dad swimming with the dolphins. I was amazed and super jealous. I really would never expect any other ‘wild’ creature to be so openly friendly and communicative with a human being. I think dolphins are amazing creatures and super intelligent. As Nollman points out, they really are willing to be our ambassadors.
“We need to focus much more attention on the issue of human community- of working with a group of people who share the common vision, and who also possess the necessary skills and personalities to make it happen...As such, we had better acknowledge, right from the start, that the dolphins are active and equal collaborators in the process. That means learning to live on dolphin time. the project will take its own shape.” (Nollman 158). Working with animals becomes complicated when humans are involved. I myself feel a nervousness for animals, especially wild animals, when it comes to people interacting with them, and expecting a certain result. My fear of hurting an animal weather is be physically or mentally by doing projects with them leads me to want to take a more observatory interaction rather than a hands on interaction. Nollman describes the main issues with his interaction with dolphins happening when more people get involved, yet he is not opposed to community involvement as long as everyone is on the same page. Ideally this would work out, but humans are selfish creatures and I myself find it hard to be trusting of a community when dealing with other species, especially based on our terrible history of running many animals into servitude, endangerment or extinction.
“The gift given by animals is precious: a guide back to balance. On that level the gift is the basis of a profound mystery.” (Nollman 159).
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (05/10/10 20:22:28)
Related animal: Dolphin
“And because of their unabashed friendliness towards humans, dolphins often seem like ambassadors from the otherwise secret world of nature. Of all the wild creatures, the large-brained dolphins seem the most willing to meet us halfway.” (Nollman 145). Ask anyone who grew up in the 90s and prior and they can tell you who their favorite dolphin is...FLIPPER. We have always been taught that dolphins are the nice friendly creatures of the sea who love humans and always want to play. It seems the media was not so far off in their presentation of dolphins. I remember when I was little my parents took a trip to Hawaii and came back with a video of my dad swimming with the dolphins. I was amazed and super jealous. I really would never expect any other ‘wild’ creature to be so openly friendly and communicative with a human being. I think dolphins are amazing creatures and super intelligent. As Nollman points out, they really are willing to be our ambassadors.
“We need to focus much more attention on the issue of human community- of working with a group of people who share the common vision, and who also possess the necessary skills and personalities to make it happen...As such, we had better acknowledge, right from the start, that the dolphins are active and equal collaborators in the process. That means learning to live on dolphin time. the project will take its own shape.” (Nollman 158). Working with animals becomes complicated when humans are involved. I myself feel a nervousness for animals, especially wild animals, when it comes to people interacting with them, and expecting a certain result. My fear of hurting an animal weather is be physically or mentally by doing projects with them leads me to want to take a more observatory interaction rather than a hands on interaction. Nollman describes the main issues with his interaction with dolphins happening when more people get involved, yet he is not opposed to community involvement as long as everyone is on the same page. Ideally this would work out, but humans are selfish creatures and I myself find it hard to be trusting of a community when dealing with other species, especially based on our terrible history of running many animals into servitude, endangerment or extinction.
“The gift given by animals is precious: a guide back to balance. On that level the gift is the basis of a profound mystery.” (Nollman 159).
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
"The Man Who Talks to Whales", Ch. 1 & 4 by Jim Nollman
By Raymond Douglas (04/15/13 11:24:34)
Related animals: Cat, Cow, Dog, Dolphin, Grizzly Bear, Human, Turkey, Wolf
In Nollman’s first chapter, I was very impressed with his initial open-mindedness and honesty about personal direction and animal relationships. I was particularly fond of his statement that as we grow away from our youth, our relationship with our animal side diminishes and becomes less familiar. This idea is very poignant to me and I remember vividly being very close to my pets at a very early age in a way that was unspoken and unable to be described. Over the course of my youth at home I became, well, less “spiritually connected” with my pets. Also, Nollman’s interest in participation rather than observation was reassuring and supported my typical set interactions with animals. I was very pleased to read this first chapter mostly because it tells of experiences that I am already open to experiencing--experiences that are not beyond the scope of my artistic focus.
Chapter 4 tells of instances where animals communicate out of the necessity to survive or as to be mutually benefitted from a situation. The lions and the Bushmen and their unspoken scheduling of trips to the water hole signified a deeply respectful instance of interspecies communication. “We are in need of the same resources, we have the possibility of hurting each other immensely, so let us not come into direct confrontation for the betterment of both our communities.” It is beautiful in how seamless and automatic communication can be between two species. For a period of 8 years or so I had a cat and a dog who cohabitated under the same suburban roof. On first contact they scratched and they cried out in defiance, but soon came to an agreement that kept the most peace. Our dog was old and our cat was a fresh addition to the family. At first there was only one pet pillow in the house, our dog’s. Our cat would claim it as his bed several times throughout the day, but our dog would often do the same. After living together for a few months, they seemed to have created a schedule of bed usage to avoid violent confrontation. It was remarkable to watch, but also pleasant to not have to deal with obnoxious pets.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Raymond Douglas (04/15/13 11:24:34)
Related animals: Cat, Cow, Dog, Dolphin, Grizzly Bear, Human, Turkey, Wolf
In Nollman’s first chapter, I was very impressed with his initial open-mindedness and honesty about personal direction and animal relationships. I was particularly fond of his statement that as we grow away from our youth, our relationship with our animal side diminishes and becomes less familiar. This idea is very poignant to me and I remember vividly being very close to my pets at a very early age in a way that was unspoken and unable to be described. Over the course of my youth at home I became, well, less “spiritually connected” with my pets. Also, Nollman’s interest in participation rather than observation was reassuring and supported my typical set interactions with animals. I was very pleased to read this first chapter mostly because it tells of experiences that I am already open to experiencing--experiences that are not beyond the scope of my artistic focus.
Chapter 4 tells of instances where animals communicate out of the necessity to survive or as to be mutually benefitted from a situation. The lions and the Bushmen and their unspoken scheduling of trips to the water hole signified a deeply respectful instance of interspecies communication. “We are in need of the same resources, we have the possibility of hurting each other immensely, so let us not come into direct confrontation for the betterment of both our communities.” It is beautiful in how seamless and automatic communication can be between two species. For a period of 8 years or so I had a cat and a dog who cohabitated under the same suburban roof. On first contact they scratched and they cried out in defiance, but soon came to an agreement that kept the most peace. Our dog was old and our cat was a fresh addition to the family. At first there was only one pet pillow in the house, our dog’s. Our cat would claim it as his bed several times throughout the day, but our dog would often do the same. After living together for a few months, they seemed to have created a schedule of bed usage to avoid violent confrontation. It was remarkable to watch, but also pleasant to not have to deal with obnoxious pets.
"The Turkey Trot" and "Interspecies Protocol"
By Danusia Young (04/07/10 17:28:06)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish, Lion, Turkey
Both of the chapters from “The Man Who Talks to Whales” by Jim Nollman are very interesting and extremely informative. The main points that he makes about us as human loosing the connection with outside world (nature) and stopping our understand of other species are very attention-grabbing. He points that as children we are more open to the world around us and more willing to listen and observe. Most of children when they are free to play, their first choice is often to flee to the nearest wild place—whether it is a big tree or brushy area in the yard or a watercourse or woodland spot. But some where between childhood and our adult life the connection with nature and other species vanished and the beginning of a long, sad divorce from nature started. Nollman blames our serious lack of interspecies communication and environmental degradation on the science, industrial revolution and deceptive information that we are encircled with. Through his new relationship with the turkey he tries to demonstrate that “the scientists had always been misleading us by perpetuating the delusion of the dumb animal” (14). But as we can read in the first chapter he learned how to communicate with the turkey through his music. It proves that the turkey not only responded to the certain high pitch music notes but after a while was also waiting for his new friend to sit with him. Indisputable, as Nollman indicates, animals create melodies, harmonies, and rhythms that evoke rich emotions and are very sensitivity to surroundings and human species.
Tough, we also crossed our interspecies protocol boundaries (the thin line of understanding, trust and respect that help us to coexist together and share the same environment) there is still a chance to start over. Human have to discover again the reach spiritual union with animals, learned their language and start to live in intimate contact with nature as our ancestors did before. We have to restore the interspecies protocol that once existed between lions and Bushmen.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Danusia Young (04/07/10 17:28:06)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish, Lion, Turkey
Both of the chapters from “The Man Who Talks to Whales” by Jim Nollman are very interesting and extremely informative. The main points that he makes about us as human loosing the connection with outside world (nature) and stopping our understand of other species are very attention-grabbing. He points that as children we are more open to the world around us and more willing to listen and observe. Most of children when they are free to play, their first choice is often to flee to the nearest wild place—whether it is a big tree or brushy area in the yard or a watercourse or woodland spot. But some where between childhood and our adult life the connection with nature and other species vanished and the beginning of a long, sad divorce from nature started. Nollman blames our serious lack of interspecies communication and environmental degradation on the science, industrial revolution and deceptive information that we are encircled with. Through his new relationship with the turkey he tries to demonstrate that “the scientists had always been misleading us by perpetuating the delusion of the dumb animal” (14). But as we can read in the first chapter he learned how to communicate with the turkey through his music. It proves that the turkey not only responded to the certain high pitch music notes but after a while was also waiting for his new friend to sit with him. Indisputable, as Nollman indicates, animals create melodies, harmonies, and rhythms that evoke rich emotions and are very sensitivity to surroundings and human species.
Tough, we also crossed our interspecies protocol boundaries (the thin line of understanding, trust and respect that help us to coexist together and share the same environment) there is still a chance to start over. Human have to discover again the reach spiritual union with animals, learned their language and start to live in intimate contact with nature as our ancestors did before. We have to restore the interspecies protocol that once existed between lions and Bushmen.
"The Turkey Trot" and "Interspecies Protocol"
By Sara Putman (04/20/10 15:45:37)
Related animal: Turkey
Both of Jim Nollman's essays are relatable and forced me to think about my own relationship with animals. In "The Turkey Trot," Nollman's musical communication with animals reminded me of something I experienced as a teen. Our first dog, an Australian Shepherd, started to howl wherever I played the recorder (a plastic flute-type instrument). I had never heard her howl in such a manner before, so I continued to play the instrument to see how she behaved. At that time, I didn't think much about whether she was attempting to communicate or sing along with me. I thought it interesting when Nollman said that "with each passing year the chasm between us humans and the rest of nature grows wider and wider." I agree that the gap widens as one gets older, but during our younger years, we do not realize our connection since society mostly tells us we are above nature.
We expect nature/animals to behave/communicate in the same ways in which human beings do. However, Nollman states that it is a mistake to expect animals to learn to give and receive information "the way that humans do it." We must not only learn about them for our own purposes, but learn from nature/animals in order to understand them on a deeper level.
In "Interspecies Protocol," Nollman asks us to "treat the animals as peers, neighbors, and mentors" as the African Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert had with the lions. Nollman defines Interspecies protocol as a social behavior established between different species. However, the addition of oblivious ranchers and their lack of respect for interspecies (Bushman/lion) protocol put an end to it. Indeed, we need to accept the concept of protocol, we also must accept the idea that animals have individuality and distinct personalities. Protocol may seem to develop into an instinctual symbiotic relationship, yet it would then need to be reexamined for what it is. As the Tao Te Ching says: "the relationship with nature that can be defined is never the real relationship with nature." It is also imperative to realize that language mirrors worldview, as humans are only one of the types of species upon this earth and we should not get the only say in how it should be viewed.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Sara Putman (04/20/10 15:45:37)
Related animal: Turkey
Both of Jim Nollman's essays are relatable and forced me to think about my own relationship with animals. In "The Turkey Trot," Nollman's musical communication with animals reminded me of something I experienced as a teen. Our first dog, an Australian Shepherd, started to howl wherever I played the recorder (a plastic flute-type instrument). I had never heard her howl in such a manner before, so I continued to play the instrument to see how she behaved. At that time, I didn't think much about whether she was attempting to communicate or sing along with me. I thought it interesting when Nollman said that "with each passing year the chasm between us humans and the rest of nature grows wider and wider." I agree that the gap widens as one gets older, but during our younger years, we do not realize our connection since society mostly tells us we are above nature.
We expect nature/animals to behave/communicate in the same ways in which human beings do. However, Nollman states that it is a mistake to expect animals to learn to give and receive information "the way that humans do it." We must not only learn about them for our own purposes, but learn from nature/animals in order to understand them on a deeper level.
In "Interspecies Protocol," Nollman asks us to "treat the animals as peers, neighbors, and mentors" as the African Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert had with the lions. Nollman defines Interspecies protocol as a social behavior established between different species. However, the addition of oblivious ranchers and their lack of respect for interspecies (Bushman/lion) protocol put an end to it. Indeed, we need to accept the concept of protocol, we also must accept the idea that animals have individuality and distinct personalities. Protocol may seem to develop into an instinctual symbiotic relationship, yet it would then need to be reexamined for what it is. As the Tao Te Ching says: "the relationship with nature that can be defined is never the real relationship with nature." It is also imperative to realize that language mirrors worldview, as humans are only one of the types of species upon this earth and we should not get the only say in how it should be viewed.
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
"Walking with Giants" and "Grizzly Man"
By Sara Putman (05/10/10 10:50:14)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
After viewing both "Walking with Giants" and "Grizzly Man," I realized that it was ironic that these two men did not get along according to Russell's response to Treadwell's death. If these two men are the same species and can't even get along, it seems ironic that they are attempting to successfully interact with a different species. I thought that they would have respected each other more, since they have a similar outcome in mind. Even though Russell tries to point out their differences, each of the mean wanted to ultimately have encounters with bears and get along with them so that they could be viewed in a different, more positive, light. I agree with Russell in that they have very different approaches to understanding and interacting with bears.
However, because Treadwell's death is seen as proof that bears can never be trusted, I can see how Russell would feel undermined, and not only angry at Treadwell but at the general public as well. If Werner Herzog had not depicted Treadwell in a negative light, the general public may have had more respect and understanding towards him, as well as the bears. Now the public only sees Treadwell's death as something that was inevitable, since bears are depicted as "totally unpredictable and ferocious."
I think that it is admirable of Treadwell to trust the bears enough to not have protection against them. I mean, he is going into their land and attempting to connect with them. In my opinion, it seemed like he knew there might be danger, but willingly gave up his own life so that he wouldn't be a threat to the brown bears in their own territory.
No one respects the fact that Treadwell had spent thirteen summers with grizzly bears and had not been hurt by them. It is sad to think about how Treadwell's way with animals and experience with the bears has disappeared along with his death. His death has undermined everything he had worked for, making it difficult to change people's minds about the nature of grizzly bears.
Grizzly Man (Movie) [Write Comment]
By Sara Putman (05/10/10 10:50:14)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
After viewing both "Walking with Giants" and "Grizzly Man," I realized that it was ironic that these two men did not get along according to Russell's response to Treadwell's death. If these two men are the same species and can't even get along, it seems ironic that they are attempting to successfully interact with a different species. I thought that they would have respected each other more, since they have a similar outcome in mind. Even though Russell tries to point out their differences, each of the mean wanted to ultimately have encounters with bears and get along with them so that they could be viewed in a different, more positive, light. I agree with Russell in that they have very different approaches to understanding and interacting with bears.
However, because Treadwell's death is seen as proof that bears can never be trusted, I can see how Russell would feel undermined, and not only angry at Treadwell but at the general public as well. If Werner Herzog had not depicted Treadwell in a negative light, the general public may have had more respect and understanding towards him, as well as the bears. Now the public only sees Treadwell's death as something that was inevitable, since bears are depicted as "totally unpredictable and ferocious."
I think that it is admirable of Treadwell to trust the bears enough to not have protection against them. I mean, he is going into their land and attempting to connect with them. In my opinion, it seemed like he knew there might be danger, but willingly gave up his own life so that he wouldn't be a threat to the brown bears in their own territory.
No one respects the fact that Treadwell had spent thirteen summers with grizzly bears and had not been hurt by them. It is sad to think about how Treadwell's way with animals and experience with the bears has disappeared along with his death. His death has undermined everything he had worked for, making it difficult to change people's minds about the nature of grizzly bears.
"Walking with Giants," and "Grizzly Man"
By Royce Chun (06/07/10 18:29:06)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
After watching "Walking with Giants," I thought that Charlie was insane yet courageous for being so close to the bears. Although, Timothy undoubtably took that insanity to a whole new level. Through both of their passion towards the bears, they were able to live with them for such a long time. This in itself was fascinating because I've grown up with the idea that bears are nothing but ferocious. Both ensured the audience that bears are, in fact, very dangerous creatures and are not to be trifled with but they were trying to convey the idea that as dangerous as they are, it is possible for humans to live alongside them to a degree. I found it interesting that Charlie and Timothy did not get along with one another since I believed them to be doing the same thing. I agree with Charlie that if Timothy got mauled by a bear that the years of progress in changing the attitudes towards bears would be undone. I find it extremely disrespectful for Herzog to portray Timothy the way he did but I suppose Timothy laid it out for him to do so fairly easily. Bears aside, I thought the foxes were awesome.
[Write Comment]
By Royce Chun (06/07/10 18:29:06)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
After watching "Walking with Giants," I thought that Charlie was insane yet courageous for being so close to the bears. Although, Timothy undoubtably took that insanity to a whole new level. Through both of their passion towards the bears, they were able to live with them for such a long time. This in itself was fascinating because I've grown up with the idea that bears are nothing but ferocious. Both ensured the audience that bears are, in fact, very dangerous creatures and are not to be trifled with but they were trying to convey the idea that as dangerous as they are, it is possible for humans to live alongside them to a degree. I found it interesting that Charlie and Timothy did not get along with one another since I believed them to be doing the same thing. I agree with Charlie that if Timothy got mauled by a bear that the years of progress in changing the attitudes towards bears would be undone. I find it extremely disrespectful for Herzog to portray Timothy the way he did but I suppose Timothy laid it out for him to do so fairly easily. Bears aside, I thought the foxes were awesome.
[Write Comment]
Other: Interspecies Communication
"Where Humans and Dolphins Meet" and "Communicating Conservation"
By Sara Putman (05/14/10 17:05:07)
Related animal: Dolphin
Toni Frohoff's book lead me to think about the necessary, or even unnecessary, limitations on the way people study animals. How close can the human race get to the animals without negatively encroaching upon their way of life? It is necessary to think about limitations because we need to factor in the evil within the human race, yet those limitations affect the humans who want to help and understand animals. It is sad and frustrating to think about how negatively we humans have both directly and indirectly affected animals and their environment. Therefore, it is difficult to even think about successful solutions in order to create a world in which we do not negatively impact the world around us.
The book reiterated the fact that animals need "rights as individuals under our laws." This makes perfect sense to me since there is a mutual curiosity/relationship between humans and cetaceans according to Frohoff's book. I believe that this could be the starting point in realizing a world in which humans can relate and respect animals. I also found it interesting when the book pointed out that dolphins can respond to humans as if they are dolphins, so this may be important in creating an equal playing field between human and animal.
Resource: Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking the Secrets of Communication (book)
[Write Comment]
By Sara Putman (05/14/10 17:05:07)
Related animal: Dolphin
Toni Frohoff's book lead me to think about the necessary, or even unnecessary, limitations on the way people study animals. How close can the human race get to the animals without negatively encroaching upon their way of life? It is necessary to think about limitations because we need to factor in the evil within the human race, yet those limitations affect the humans who want to help and understand animals. It is sad and frustrating to think about how negatively we humans have both directly and indirectly affected animals and their environment. Therefore, it is difficult to even think about successful solutions in order to create a world in which we do not negatively impact the world around us.
The book reiterated the fact that animals need "rights as individuals under our laws." This makes perfect sense to me since there is a mutual curiosity/relationship between humans and cetaceans according to Frohoff's book. I believe that this could be the starting point in realizing a world in which humans can relate and respect animals. I also found it interesting when the book pointed out that dolphins can respond to humans as if they are dolphins, so this may be important in creating an equal playing field between human and animal.
Resource: Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking the Secrets of Communication (book)
[Write Comment]
30
By Luis Alberto Velazquez (05/18/14 12:51:35)
Related animal: Fish
I have commented in the past that in terms of art making most of my projects are born spontaneously, or at least that is how the idea is born. This time it happened while fishing at the beach with one of my friends, however now feel like I’m confronted with some kind of moral dilemma.
A few days ago was a very hot day, almost 100 degrees so my friend and I decided to go fishing. It was already sunset but the moon was almost full which allowed us to stay at the beach until late. My friend caught his first fish ever, it was a big beautiful surfperch. We were planning on catching and releasing but when my friend caught the perch we realized that the fish had swallowed the hook too deep to safely remove it so decided to keep it for eating.
Next, I caught a bat ray and fought to bring it to shore for about 20 minutes. We removed the hook and let it back in the water. It was now time for us to go home and decided to clean the fish there. When we opened the fish’s belly we realized it was pregnant, there were about 30 baby perch inside some sort of placenta. We felt terrible about, unfortunately there was nothing we could do. I decided to take them home and freeze them to create something with their tiny bodies.
This is where I have mixed feelings. Should I had just placed them in the water for other creatures to eat and try to forget that this happened? This is not the kind of collaboration I had pictured (if you can even call it that)
On the other hand, I’m also conscious that not every story and not every art piece I create evolves from a happy situation. I felt like I should just embrace it. I believe this relates to my desire with collecting dead birds and preserving their wings and feathers to use them in art projects as to somehow memorialize their dead and underline their beauty.
At this point, the fish are at my studio, I was thinking of covering them with polyurethane or other resin to preserve the bodies. Any suggestions, comments or thoughts about this?
I got a video I can upload of the fish while we were cleaning it but its very graphic.
[Write Comment]
By Luis Alberto Velazquez (05/18/14 12:51:35)
Related animal: Fish
I have commented in the past that in terms of art making most of my projects are born spontaneously, or at least that is how the idea is born. This time it happened while fishing at the beach with one of my friends, however now feel like I’m confronted with some kind of moral dilemma.
A few days ago was a very hot day, almost 100 degrees so my friend and I decided to go fishing. It was already sunset but the moon was almost full which allowed us to stay at the beach until late. My friend caught his first fish ever, it was a big beautiful surfperch. We were planning on catching and releasing but when my friend caught the perch we realized that the fish had swallowed the hook too deep to safely remove it so decided to keep it for eating.
Next, I caught a bat ray and fought to bring it to shore for about 20 minutes. We removed the hook and let it back in the water. It was now time for us to go home and decided to clean the fish there. When we opened the fish’s belly we realized it was pregnant, there were about 30 baby perch inside some sort of placenta. We felt terrible about, unfortunately there was nothing we could do. I decided to take them home and freeze them to create something with their tiny bodies.
This is where I have mixed feelings. Should I had just placed them in the water for other creatures to eat and try to forget that this happened? This is not the kind of collaboration I had pictured (if you can even call it that)
On the other hand, I’m also conscious that not every story and not every art piece I create evolves from a happy situation. I felt like I should just embrace it. I believe this relates to my desire with collecting dead birds and preserving their wings and feathers to use them in art projects as to somehow memorialize their dead and underline their beauty.
At this point, the fish are at my studio, I was thinking of covering them with polyurethane or other resin to preserve the bodies. Any suggestions, comments or thoughts about this?
I got a video I can upload of the fish while we were cleaning it but its very graphic.
[Write Comment]
4/15/10 Response to Barbara Janelle
By Alli Harrod (04/20/10 17:26:23)
Related animals: Cat, Dog, Hermit Crab
Barbara Janelle’s activities to help the class learn more about animal communication were interesting and informative methods that anyone interested can use to apply to animals. I enjoyed her discussions on animal body language because I have found that many conclusions can be drawn about animal moods based on their body language and the individual personality of the animal in question. I think that since her workshop included animals like Ziggy, Napoleon, Snow-Bo, Leonard, and Hermes, we were able to very easily understand the differences in animals’ individual personalities, especially all of the named animals had such vastly different personalities. There was no way that the three dogs present could ever just be lumped under the category “dog” because they had such different energies about them. During Janelle’s exercise to help us to feel and imagine what it may be like to inhabit the particular body and experience of an animal that we know, I chose my cat Julius.
As I was attempting to get into the trance atmosphere that Janelle provided I imagined myself inhabiting Julius’ body and what it may be like to experience life through his eyes. Like I mentioned during the workshop, I felt that my face was a bit more triangular, like Julius’, and I could feel the pull of whiskers on my cheeks in my imagination. I can imagine that if I was able to feel this way during this workshop that with more practice and learning, I could learn more about feeling how a particular animal may feel. When I came home, I tried to imagine myself in Julius’ shoes again, this time both while looking at him and while not. I was not able to reproduce the same effect, but I’m sure in time, I might be able to. Other than that, I decided to use techniques that we were discussing in the workshop for communication with him face to face. Like I mentioned in class after her workshop, I was saying things to Julius in specific pitches and with each noise I made in that pitch, his tail would flick upwards in the same manner. Julius and I, however, are used to communicating in pitches anyways. For example, whenever he gets a wet-food can treat, I yell, “din” in a specific pitch, and he knows what is coming. The “din” pitch has come in handy a few times when Julius has been lost and I needed to find him.
[Write Comment]
By Alli Harrod (04/20/10 17:26:23)
Related animals: Cat, Dog, Hermit Crab
Barbara Janelle’s activities to help the class learn more about animal communication were interesting and informative methods that anyone interested can use to apply to animals. I enjoyed her discussions on animal body language because I have found that many conclusions can be drawn about animal moods based on their body language and the individual personality of the animal in question. I think that since her workshop included animals like Ziggy, Napoleon, Snow-Bo, Leonard, and Hermes, we were able to very easily understand the differences in animals’ individual personalities, especially all of the named animals had such vastly different personalities. There was no way that the three dogs present could ever just be lumped under the category “dog” because they had such different energies about them. During Janelle’s exercise to help us to feel and imagine what it may be like to inhabit the particular body and experience of an animal that we know, I chose my cat Julius.
As I was attempting to get into the trance atmosphere that Janelle provided I imagined myself inhabiting Julius’ body and what it may be like to experience life through his eyes. Like I mentioned during the workshop, I felt that my face was a bit more triangular, like Julius’, and I could feel the pull of whiskers on my cheeks in my imagination. I can imagine that if I was able to feel this way during this workshop that with more practice and learning, I could learn more about feeling how a particular animal may feel. When I came home, I tried to imagine myself in Julius’ shoes again, this time both while looking at him and while not. I was not able to reproduce the same effect, but I’m sure in time, I might be able to. Other than that, I decided to use techniques that we were discussing in the workshop for communication with him face to face. Like I mentioned in class after her workshop, I was saying things to Julius in specific pitches and with each noise I made in that pitch, his tail would flick upwards in the same manner. Julius and I, however, are used to communicating in pitches anyways. For example, whenever he gets a wet-food can treat, I yell, “din” in a specific pitch, and he knows what is coming. The “din” pitch has come in handy a few times when Julius has been lost and I needed to find him.
[Write Comment]
4/20/10 - Response to “Fear of the Familiar”
By Alli Harrod (04/20/10 17:27:15)
In “Fear of the Familiar” Steve Baker discusses post-modernism in relation to interspecies collaboration, speciesism, and environmentalism as he examines fear and favor of animals and inconsistencies that surround that dichotomy. As post-modernists attempt to rid binary thinking and categories, Baker examines their successes and shortcomings in relation to individuals of any particular species, collaboration and speciesism. Baker claims that post-modern artists may experience an underlying “fear of pets” or rather an “anthromorphobia” which derives from the construction of the “pet” in a category that may be humanlike. However it is vital to the reader’s understanding of the text to note that since “anthromorphobia” may exist for some, it is necessary to realize that the category “pet” lies in a space that is sub-human and non-(“wild”)animal, therefore the “pet” in question finds home in neither. But, thinking of the “pet” in these terms suggests that the “pet” is absolutely an individual. It is utterly biased to critique the socializing that any animal undergoes because there is no definition of “natural” according to a post-modernist framework. So whether an animal grows in the “wild,” in a household, or in a (perhaps) harsh environment that has been affected by human or natural growth or disaster, they are an individual animal regardless of the environment that “normalized” them. It is imperative that a post-modernist understand this fact. Every animal is socialized in some way or another, just like a human is, and this socialization brings them into their individual existence in the world. Whether animals have relationships with humans or other animals or both, it is speciesist to assume that every animal has the same experience, just as it is racist or classist to assume that every member of any particular socioeconomic location lives the same experience.
Baker also found similarities between post-modern artists and animal activists/advocates who both considered to view animals through a framework of individuality. He claims that both artists and activists/advocates search for new ways to interact with animals in their “natural” habitat, in an attempt not to “taint” them. He writes that love has a lot to do with knowledge and I think that this is an important philosophy when debating over “wild” v. domestic animals and the objectivity/subjectivity binary. Love can affect the way that someone views animals as individuals and species as a whole. People like Jim Nollman and Barbara Janelle radiate love for animals as individuals within their work and the way that they discuss their relationships to animals – and this certainly enhances the ability for one to view animals as subjects and not objects.
[Write Comment]
By Alli Harrod (04/20/10 17:27:15)
In “Fear of the Familiar” Steve Baker discusses post-modernism in relation to interspecies collaboration, speciesism, and environmentalism as he examines fear and favor of animals and inconsistencies that surround that dichotomy. As post-modernists attempt to rid binary thinking and categories, Baker examines their successes and shortcomings in relation to individuals of any particular species, collaboration and speciesism. Baker claims that post-modern artists may experience an underlying “fear of pets” or rather an “anthromorphobia” which derives from the construction of the “pet” in a category that may be humanlike. However it is vital to the reader’s understanding of the text to note that since “anthromorphobia” may exist for some, it is necessary to realize that the category “pet” lies in a space that is sub-human and non-(“wild”)animal, therefore the “pet” in question finds home in neither. But, thinking of the “pet” in these terms suggests that the “pet” is absolutely an individual. It is utterly biased to critique the socializing that any animal undergoes because there is no definition of “natural” according to a post-modernist framework. So whether an animal grows in the “wild,” in a household, or in a (perhaps) harsh environment that has been affected by human or natural growth or disaster, they are an individual animal regardless of the environment that “normalized” them. It is imperative that a post-modernist understand this fact. Every animal is socialized in some way or another, just like a human is, and this socialization brings them into their individual existence in the world. Whether animals have relationships with humans or other animals or both, it is speciesist to assume that every animal has the same experience, just as it is racist or classist to assume that every member of any particular socioeconomic location lives the same experience.
Baker also found similarities between post-modern artists and animal activists/advocates who both considered to view animals through a framework of individuality. He claims that both artists and activists/advocates search for new ways to interact with animals in their “natural” habitat, in an attempt not to “taint” them. He writes that love has a lot to do with knowledge and I think that this is an important philosophy when debating over “wild” v. domestic animals and the objectivity/subjectivity binary. Love can affect the way that someone views animals as individuals and species as a whole. People like Jim Nollman and Barbara Janelle radiate love for animals as individuals within their work and the way that they discuss their relationships to animals – and this certainly enhances the ability for one to view animals as subjects and not objects.
[Write Comment]
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
8 Fear of the Familiar
By Mary Zdybel (04/25/10 23:56:16)
In the essay, “8 Fear of the Familiar,” author Steve Baker argues that postmodern artists and philosophers struggle with the concept of pets because they are contradictory to their thinking. He says that “this engagement with the animal is always a matter of bringing it into meaning. This runs counter, of course, to the way in which postmodernism tends to see itself: as the scourge of anthropomorphism, anthropocentrism and all other tendencies to reduce difference to sameness, the impure to the pure, the inhuman to the human, and the strange to the meaningful.” Although this text was extremely dense and hard for me to swallow, I gathered from it that we are not postmodern in our thinking about animals. Because we feel the need to categorize animals into types, (such as: self, pet, livestock, game, and wild animal) pets get left in an intermediary gray-area social category of man-animal. This connection between man and animal creates a tender subject and emotional relationships are developed. The author mentions that postmodern artists may not exactly have a fear of pets, but more of "what has been called 'anthropomorphobia,' a fear that they may be accused of uncritical sentimentality"As a child I could never even watch a movie that was based on animals because it made me too emotional. For some reason I have always struggles with the idea of animals suffering but watching a horror movie with humans—that doesn't phase me one bit. There is something about the sentimental quality embedded in animals that strikes me emotionally. I feel that this strong connection that I feel toward animals can be very useful in my understanding of other species and in future collaborations.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Mary Zdybel (04/25/10 23:56:16)
In the essay, “8 Fear of the Familiar,” author Steve Baker argues that postmodern artists and philosophers struggle with the concept of pets because they are contradictory to their thinking. He says that “this engagement with the animal is always a matter of bringing it into meaning. This runs counter, of course, to the way in which postmodernism tends to see itself: as the scourge of anthropomorphism, anthropocentrism and all other tendencies to reduce difference to sameness, the impure to the pure, the inhuman to the human, and the strange to the meaningful.” Although this text was extremely dense and hard for me to swallow, I gathered from it that we are not postmodern in our thinking about animals. Because we feel the need to categorize animals into types, (such as: self, pet, livestock, game, and wild animal) pets get left in an intermediary gray-area social category of man-animal. This connection between man and animal creates a tender subject and emotional relationships are developed. The author mentions that postmodern artists may not exactly have a fear of pets, but more of "what has been called 'anthropomorphobia,' a fear that they may be accused of uncritical sentimentality"As a child I could never even watch a movie that was based on animals because it made me too emotional. For some reason I have always struggles with the idea of animals suffering but watching a horror movie with humans—that doesn't phase me one bit. There is something about the sentimental quality embedded in animals that strikes me emotionally. I feel that this strong connection that I feel toward animals can be very useful in my understanding of other species and in future collaborations.
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
A Bee or Three (And Me)
By Erik Shalat (05/06/13 01:39:12)
Related animal: Insect
I’ve been taking a lot of pictures of bees recently. I have a crippling fear of bees that developed when I was seven and I was stung on the foot entering a car. Bees are, visually, one of my favorite creatures. The gold and black patterns of their fur makes them look for lack of a better word, really cute. I enjoy seeing them in still images, but when I hear buzzing I instinctually react by panicking. My girlfriend and I have argued about bees, which is a silly thing to argue about but it has happened to me so I suppose my life is just silly like that. She wants to get a matching tattoo of a bee to match one that her sister is getting. When I told her I didn’t like bees she didn’t understand why. I said I was afraid of the stingers and she said that she had never been stung, which I called her out on.
I am frequently in the art building because of my major, and recently i’ve noticed an abundance of bees lying on the pavement of the second floor of the building. In this docile state, i’ve been able to sit down, take pictures of them, draw from them, and really just examine their habits. I make sure to check that they’re not just dead, but I still have no idea why there are so many in that location specifically. The bees don’t fly away, they don’t try to escape on their little legs, they just stay in one spot and make their little bee movements.
I’ve seen the little undulations of their thorax, the way they clean themselves with their front arms, and the way their wings occasionally flutter. For me to get so close to something that I am so afraid of has made me rethink my fear. The terminal pain of a bee sting seemed daunting as a child when I had a lower pain threshold, but now I have been through much worse pain. I take my shots without fear when I go in for a check up. What does a bee sting amount to? Not much.
I’ve taken really close-up pictures of all the bees i’ve come across, as well as a few videos. This has been going on for about 2 weeks now, and it’s inspired a lot of my artwork for my other classes. If I keep taking pictures of these bees, I figure I can blow them up and display that as an exhibit by the end of the year. The artwork is more about how I have managed to come so close, in terms of physical distance, to something that I have a pathological fear of. I’ve also in the process been learning much about these small creatures; for instance, they don’t die instantly after stinging. Thats a common myth. The truth is that when they sting you the barbs can get in so deep that pulling it out will pull off their abdomen, but that only happens when the sting-victim has really tough skin. Which means that bees can sting and not die, over and over again. This reinstates my fear a bit.
[Write Comment]
Comment by vkittle (05/22/13 20:41:34):
I had no idea that bees don't necessarily die after they sting someone! Personally, I'm always paranoid that they're going to sting me. And now I guess they can regrow their stingers! I suppose I've gone 22 years now without being stung, so maybe my fear is a little misplaced. I also agree that they are really cute. Usually I find the small creepy, crawly, flying things pretty disgusting, but bees are an exception.
By Erik Shalat (05/06/13 01:39:12)
Related animal: Insect
I’ve been taking a lot of pictures of bees recently. I have a crippling fear of bees that developed when I was seven and I was stung on the foot entering a car. Bees are, visually, one of my favorite creatures. The gold and black patterns of their fur makes them look for lack of a better word, really cute. I enjoy seeing them in still images, but when I hear buzzing I instinctually react by panicking. My girlfriend and I have argued about bees, which is a silly thing to argue about but it has happened to me so I suppose my life is just silly like that. She wants to get a matching tattoo of a bee to match one that her sister is getting. When I told her I didn’t like bees she didn’t understand why. I said I was afraid of the stingers and she said that she had never been stung, which I called her out on.
I am frequently in the art building because of my major, and recently i’ve noticed an abundance of bees lying on the pavement of the second floor of the building. In this docile state, i’ve been able to sit down, take pictures of them, draw from them, and really just examine their habits. I make sure to check that they’re not just dead, but I still have no idea why there are so many in that location specifically. The bees don’t fly away, they don’t try to escape on their little legs, they just stay in one spot and make their little bee movements.
I’ve seen the little undulations of their thorax, the way they clean themselves with their front arms, and the way their wings occasionally flutter. For me to get so close to something that I am so afraid of has made me rethink my fear. The terminal pain of a bee sting seemed daunting as a child when I had a lower pain threshold, but now I have been through much worse pain. I take my shots without fear when I go in for a check up. What does a bee sting amount to? Not much.
I’ve taken really close-up pictures of all the bees i’ve come across, as well as a few videos. This has been going on for about 2 weeks now, and it’s inspired a lot of my artwork for my other classes. If I keep taking pictures of these bees, I figure I can blow them up and display that as an exhibit by the end of the year. The artwork is more about how I have managed to come so close, in terms of physical distance, to something that I have a pathological fear of. I’ve also in the process been learning much about these small creatures; for instance, they don’t die instantly after stinging. Thats a common myth. The truth is that when they sting you the barbs can get in so deep that pulling it out will pull off their abdomen, but that only happens when the sting-victim has really tough skin. Which means that bees can sting and not die, over and over again. This reinstates my fear a bit.
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Comment by vkittle (05/22/13 20:41:34):
I had no idea that bees don't necessarily die after they sting someone! Personally, I'm always paranoid that they're going to sting me. And now I guess they can regrow their stingers! I suppose I've gone 22 years now without being stung, so maybe my fear is a little misplaced. I also agree that they are really cute. Usually I find the small creepy, crawly, flying things pretty disgusting, but bees are an exception.
Reflection: Non-Human Animal Perception and Cognition
A Fish in Isla Vista
By Jorden Hirsch (04/15/10 17:35:15)
Related animal: Fish
Throughout the whole discussion in Barbara in class I was thinking of different animals I had in my life and their living environments. New to my life in Isla Vista to my roommates and me is a Beta fish, named P. Diddy. P. Diddy has brought a lot of joy to our house, a beautiful deep blue and purple, he swims around his fish bowl (with rainbow colored pebbles) and we'll make sure to interact with him a couple times a day as a group. After doing the meditation in class and trying to put myself in another species place I was inspired when I got home to try and do this with P. Diddy. As a fish I felt an immediate loosening of my body and this feeling of being completely open for visual scrutiny. I was only able to really physically feel this for a brief second before I started putting my own ideas of what I believed P. Diddy would be seeing as a fish in my kitchen. Out of this though I feel like I did learn something really important, and that was the anxiety that P.Diddy probably feels when we put our fingers on the glass of his tank and/or put our faces really close to his tank.
[Write Comment]
By Jorden Hirsch (04/15/10 17:35:15)
Related animal: Fish
Throughout the whole discussion in Barbara in class I was thinking of different animals I had in my life and their living environments. New to my life in Isla Vista to my roommates and me is a Beta fish, named P. Diddy. P. Diddy has brought a lot of joy to our house, a beautiful deep blue and purple, he swims around his fish bowl (with rainbow colored pebbles) and we'll make sure to interact with him a couple times a day as a group. After doing the meditation in class and trying to put myself in another species place I was inspired when I got home to try and do this with P. Diddy. As a fish I felt an immediate loosening of my body and this feeling of being completely open for visual scrutiny. I was only able to really physically feel this for a brief second before I started putting my own ideas of what I believed P. Diddy would be seeing as a fish in my kitchen. Out of this though I feel like I did learn something really important, and that was the anxiety that P.Diddy probably feels when we put our fingers on the glass of his tank and/or put our faces really close to his tank.
[Write Comment]
A Note About My Comment in Discussion with Deke Weaver
By Rachel Fleming (04/14/14 19:03:47)
I just wanted to elaborate on my comment about being better able to pinpoint sharks in the water on my kayak trip once I "pretended" I would see something. Although we were discussing fascinating "ghost stories" and such, I did not mean to imply anything mystical about this technique. I mostly meant to imply that the act of pretending probably had some effect on my mind's ability to pick out signals in my environment.
For example, pretend someone hands you an image and tells you that there's definitely something interesting hidden in it. You will probably we quicker to find that interesting thing faster than if that person told you that there "might" be something interesting in the picture.
I've found that the technique of assuming there is life somewhere in my surroundings (if I look hard enough) is true. Looking with a careful eye for even a second longer might reveal more than you expect :)
[Write Comment]
By Rachel Fleming (04/14/14 19:03:47)
I just wanted to elaborate on my comment about being better able to pinpoint sharks in the water on my kayak trip once I "pretended" I would see something. Although we were discussing fascinating "ghost stories" and such, I did not mean to imply anything mystical about this technique. I mostly meant to imply that the act of pretending probably had some effect on my mind's ability to pick out signals in my environment.
For example, pretend someone hands you an image and tells you that there's definitely something interesting hidden in it. You will probably we quicker to find that interesting thing faster than if that person told you that there "might" be something interesting in the picture.
I've found that the technique of assuming there is life somewhere in my surroundings (if I look hard enough) is true. Looking with a careful eye for even a second longer might reveal more than you expect :)
[Write Comment]
Story: Other Related Research
Addition to my Profile
By Marissa Gravett (04/18/13 01:06:44)
Related animals: Cat, Dog
Math and science people are said to show strength in their right side of the brain. Although I have always been a right-minded person, I envy those who can express themselves creatively with their well-developed left side of the brain. I feel very fortunate to have a best friend who balances my right side with her artistic left side. My best friend and roommate, Natalie Earhart, is an art major at UCSB. Throughout our years together at UCSB, I have enjoyed discussing her art projects with her and helping her develop her ideas.
When it came to choosing my class schedule for my last quarter as a UCSB undergrad, I had to pick a random class to fill my schedule to make myself a full time student. Natalie had mentioned that there was space in this Interspecies Collaboration class, and I knew this was the exact class that I should take to exercise the left side of my brain after neglecting it for four years due to my heavy science classes. I didn’t want to graduate without giving myself the chance to see what I could create after watching Natalie create so many inspiring art pieces throughout the years.
I have always been an animal lover. In fact, I think it is safe to say that I sometimes enjoy being around animals more than people because I feel like animals understand me more. Animals are such interesting creatures that we can learn so much from. Since I identify myself as such an animal lover, I felt like this class would be the perfect opportunity for me to express the impact that animals have on my life in an artistic way. I have always been naturally drawn to domestic animals such as dogs and cats because that is what I grew up around. I studied abroad in Costa Rica this past fall and ever since then, my interest in exotic and wild animals has grown. The more I learn about them and the more time I spend with them, the more fascinated I become. I hope that this class will help me to turn my everyday interactions with the animals that I love into art that expresses my special connection with animals.
[Write Comment]
By Marissa Gravett (04/18/13 01:06:44)
Related animals: Cat, Dog
Math and science people are said to show strength in their right side of the brain. Although I have always been a right-minded person, I envy those who can express themselves creatively with their well-developed left side of the brain. I feel very fortunate to have a best friend who balances my right side with her artistic left side. My best friend and roommate, Natalie Earhart, is an art major at UCSB. Throughout our years together at UCSB, I have enjoyed discussing her art projects with her and helping her develop her ideas.
When it came to choosing my class schedule for my last quarter as a UCSB undergrad, I had to pick a random class to fill my schedule to make myself a full time student. Natalie had mentioned that there was space in this Interspecies Collaboration class, and I knew this was the exact class that I should take to exercise the left side of my brain after neglecting it for four years due to my heavy science classes. I didn’t want to graduate without giving myself the chance to see what I could create after watching Natalie create so many inspiring art pieces throughout the years.
I have always been an animal lover. In fact, I think it is safe to say that I sometimes enjoy being around animals more than people because I feel like animals understand me more. Animals are such interesting creatures that we can learn so much from. Since I identify myself as such an animal lover, I felt like this class would be the perfect opportunity for me to express the impact that animals have on my life in an artistic way. I have always been naturally drawn to domestic animals such as dogs and cats because that is what I grew up around. I studied abroad in Costa Rica this past fall and ever since then, my interest in exotic and wild animals has grown. The more I learn about them and the more time I spend with them, the more fascinated I become. I hope that this class will help me to turn my everyday interactions with the animals that I love into art that expresses my special connection with animals.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Art Interspecies Collaborations
Admiring the Hammies
By Erik Shalat (05/06/13 20:22:47)
Related animal: Pig
The biggest animals I see on a daily basis are dogs (or humans if you’re looking for a twilight zone answer). There is a certain homogenization of animals that you end up seeing in daily life. For me, seeing a raccoon is out of the ordinary. What i’m getting at is that seeing such a relatively atypical animal like a pig is really cool. We went on a class field trip to Little Orphan Hammie’s pig orphanage to interact with all the pigs therein.
Pigs have always been more of a concept than an actual species to me. Seeing pigs in real life is very different from seeing them adapted into media. My experience with them comes from movies like Babe and cartoons like Hey Arnold. Pigs in acuality are huge. And most of them aren’t pink. And they don’t have curly screw shaped tails. Their hair isn’t soft and short, they have long stiff bristles and tough flakey skin. One thing that really fell into place for me was why the image of the pig rolling around in mud was so prominent. Seeing the pigs get in a big wet mud hole made perfect sense as I could feel the heat bearing down on me. I came to think of things from the pig’s perspective, they’re really not so different from dogs or cats, maybe just a little more top heavy. That puts them in a frame of reference i’m more comfortable with.
I came to know some of the pigs by their personality. Petunia was always trying to impose herself into situations, expecting food and attention. Judge was more reserved and stoic but would shake people’s hands when prompted. Another pig would squeal when you brushed her. Finally we went to go see Valentine, a farm pig. Valentine blew my mind, she was ludicrously large. She was the size of two large dogs stacked on top of each other. She was the nicest of all, licking people on the face and getting petted. The shame is that almost all these pigs come from bad homes. Pigs are often raised by people who don’t expect them to grow to the size they are at Hammies. I can definitely understand where the desire comes from, all the media i’ve seen growing up gave me a unrealistic expectation of what a pig is actually like. Pigs need space and attention that they don’t get enough up in a cramped house or apartment.
The trip to the Little Orphan Hammies was illuminating, inspiring, and a lot of fun in the end. I feel like i’ve broadened the range of animals that I think of as “real”. It’s easy to get trapped in a little bubble. Comfort Zone seems like the right term for it. This quarter in particular has been great, seeing pigs and cows and horses and everything in between. This would not be the last time I saw pigs in particular, and i’m glad for that because pigs are amazing animals.
[Write Comment]
By Erik Shalat (05/06/13 20:22:47)
Related animal: Pig
The biggest animals I see on a daily basis are dogs (or humans if you’re looking for a twilight zone answer). There is a certain homogenization of animals that you end up seeing in daily life. For me, seeing a raccoon is out of the ordinary. What i’m getting at is that seeing such a relatively atypical animal like a pig is really cool. We went on a class field trip to Little Orphan Hammie’s pig orphanage to interact with all the pigs therein.
Pigs have always been more of a concept than an actual species to me. Seeing pigs in real life is very different from seeing them adapted into media. My experience with them comes from movies like Babe and cartoons like Hey Arnold. Pigs in acuality are huge. And most of them aren’t pink. And they don’t have curly screw shaped tails. Their hair isn’t soft and short, they have long stiff bristles and tough flakey skin. One thing that really fell into place for me was why the image of the pig rolling around in mud was so prominent. Seeing the pigs get in a big wet mud hole made perfect sense as I could feel the heat bearing down on me. I came to think of things from the pig’s perspective, they’re really not so different from dogs or cats, maybe just a little more top heavy. That puts them in a frame of reference i’m more comfortable with.
I came to know some of the pigs by their personality. Petunia was always trying to impose herself into situations, expecting food and attention. Judge was more reserved and stoic but would shake people’s hands when prompted. Another pig would squeal when you brushed her. Finally we went to go see Valentine, a farm pig. Valentine blew my mind, she was ludicrously large. She was the size of two large dogs stacked on top of each other. She was the nicest of all, licking people on the face and getting petted. The shame is that almost all these pigs come from bad homes. Pigs are often raised by people who don’t expect them to grow to the size they are at Hammies. I can definitely understand where the desire comes from, all the media i’ve seen growing up gave me a unrealistic expectation of what a pig is actually like. Pigs need space and attention that they don’t get enough up in a cramped house or apartment.
The trip to the Little Orphan Hammies was illuminating, inspiring, and a lot of fun in the end. I feel like i’ve broadened the range of animals that I think of as “real”. It’s easy to get trapped in a little bubble. Comfort Zone seems like the right term for it. This quarter in particular has been great, seeing pigs and cows and horses and everything in between. This would not be the last time I saw pigs in particular, and i’m glad for that because pigs are amazing animals.
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Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
After workshop with Barbara Janelle
By Danusia Young (04/19/10 23:44:40)
Related animal: Dog
Our Thursday workshop with Barbara Janelle was very attention-grabbing and motivating. Despite the fact that, I was not successful in few of her exercises I did agree with the main ideas about animal-human communication. Communication with other species presents learning experiences that can help us to understand more the world around us. We can learn so much from the animals about how to live in harmony and balance on the Earth. I agree that if we want to be successful in our communication or relationships with other species first we have to stop thinking about them as less evolved, or less intelligent. Our attitudes have to change. First of all, we have to regard animals with respect, openness and as potential teachers, and this alone will enable us to observe them with a fresh light and open up a source of information from them about who and how they are. When Barbara mentioned that animal can sense our stress and that can change it behavior too, right a way I thought about my dog Max. Some time he can not stop licking his paws obsessively. I was thinking perhaps my stress with school affects him too. I decided to work with him and try to be calmer and relax. Every day after school I played with him and tried very hard not to get angry even when I saw him biting himself. Usually in this kind of situation I will tell him “no, stop biting”, but after listening to Barbara, I lower my voice, tried to come him down, pet and hug him. I have to say that he stopped and focused on his toys. I noticed that the first thing when he sees me, he looks at me as he will try to read my mood. I never realized that before. I think that now I am more aware about his behavior as well as mine own. By trying to stay calm I did not only help Max to stop for while his bad habit but help myself to relax. Every time I sat with him for while I found myself thinking about more positive things. He still tries to bite himself, but I think less frequently. I will continue to work on my body posture and tension when around Max as well as try to be more relax and receptive.
[Write Comment]
By Danusia Young (04/19/10 23:44:40)
Related animal: Dog
Our Thursday workshop with Barbara Janelle was very attention-grabbing and motivating. Despite the fact that, I was not successful in few of her exercises I did agree with the main ideas about animal-human communication. Communication with other species presents learning experiences that can help us to understand more the world around us. We can learn so much from the animals about how to live in harmony and balance on the Earth. I agree that if we want to be successful in our communication or relationships with other species first we have to stop thinking about them as less evolved, or less intelligent. Our attitudes have to change. First of all, we have to regard animals with respect, openness and as potential teachers, and this alone will enable us to observe them with a fresh light and open up a source of information from them about who and how they are. When Barbara mentioned that animal can sense our stress and that can change it behavior too, right a way I thought about my dog Max. Some time he can not stop licking his paws obsessively. I was thinking perhaps my stress with school affects him too. I decided to work with him and try to be calmer and relax. Every day after school I played with him and tried very hard not to get angry even when I saw him biting himself. Usually in this kind of situation I will tell him “no, stop biting”, but after listening to Barbara, I lower my voice, tried to come him down, pet and hug him. I have to say that he stopped and focused on his toys. I noticed that the first thing when he sees me, he looks at me as he will try to read my mood. I never realized that before. I think that now I am more aware about his behavior as well as mine own. By trying to stay calm I did not only help Max to stop for while his bad habit but help myself to relax. Every time I sat with him for while I found myself thinking about more positive things. He still tries to bite himself, but I think less frequently. I will continue to work on my body posture and tension when around Max as well as try to be more relax and receptive.
[Write Comment]
Other: Speciesism and Animal Rights
all creaturs. org
By Lillian Shanahan (06/07/10 09:08:29)
Related animal: Science Experiment
I just went onto this site and looked under animal rights.
there were so many horrible photos of dead and alive cats that have been experimented on in some one or another.
i just felt really sick- because a lot of these procedures are carried on without anesthesia.
its amazing how cruel human beings can be. We don't just kill for food we torture for no reason.
Related Website: All Creatures
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (06/07/10 09:08:29)
Related animal: Science Experiment
I just went onto this site and looked under animal rights.
there were so many horrible photos of dead and alive cats that have been experimented on in some one or another.
i just felt really sick- because a lot of these procedures are carried on without anesthesia.
its amazing how cruel human beings can be. We don't just kill for food we torture for no reason.
Related Website: All Creatures
[Write Comment]
Story: Interspecies Communication
An Hour At Sea
By Jeff Marsch (05/12/09 15:09:36)
Related animals: Dolphin, Sea Lion
For this exercise I paddled a kayak about a quarter mile off the coast of La Jolla in San Diego and waited/waded in the water for an hour to see what kind of sea life came my way, and if they were curious or willing to interact. I did not bring a mask, so I was incapable of entering the water to establish direct visual contact. This resulted in me sitting in the kayak and looking down into the water below, or occasionally dipping my body into the water and leaving myself vulnerable without a means for seeing into the water at all. My first submersion made the inability to make visual contact with my potential aquatic friends unnecessary; a pod of Bottlenose dolphins were in the area, and I could hear their echolocative clicks as soon as I put my head under the water. My first instinct was to mimic the sounds I was hearing with a similar set of clicks. For a few minutes the clicking continued, but my calls didn't seem to be attracting the dolphins enough to bring them towards me. After about five minutes of trying the dolphins were out of my earshot, and I got back into the kayak. For the remainder of the time only a few animals came near: a couple of sea lions, a few pelicans, and a school of mackarel. I had thought that the sea lions would come closer as they naturally do, but they stayed their distance about fifteen yards away. Their lack of curiosity on this particular day made me curious as to how I might potentially collaborate with them. I realized that it might be a lot easier to do on land where they are not so flighty and capable of running away so quickly, and also where they are congregated in large numbers and most likely feel more comfortable because of it. However, I don't think that collaborating with sea lions would be as interesting as with dolphins, because while the former share similar behaviors and characteristics with well known terrestrial mammals (canines), the latter are fully aquatic in their physiology and possess a unique and challenging mode of communication (sonar) that could be an excellent medium for an art project.
[Write Comment]
By Jeff Marsch (05/12/09 15:09:36)
Related animals: Dolphin, Sea Lion
For this exercise I paddled a kayak about a quarter mile off the coast of La Jolla in San Diego and waited/waded in the water for an hour to see what kind of sea life came my way, and if they were curious or willing to interact. I did not bring a mask, so I was incapable of entering the water to establish direct visual contact. This resulted in me sitting in the kayak and looking down into the water below, or occasionally dipping my body into the water and leaving myself vulnerable without a means for seeing into the water at all. My first submersion made the inability to make visual contact with my potential aquatic friends unnecessary; a pod of Bottlenose dolphins were in the area, and I could hear their echolocative clicks as soon as I put my head under the water. My first instinct was to mimic the sounds I was hearing with a similar set of clicks. For a few minutes the clicking continued, but my calls didn't seem to be attracting the dolphins enough to bring them towards me. After about five minutes of trying the dolphins were out of my earshot, and I got back into the kayak. For the remainder of the time only a few animals came near: a couple of sea lions, a few pelicans, and a school of mackarel. I had thought that the sea lions would come closer as they naturally do, but they stayed their distance about fifteen yards away. Their lack of curiosity on this particular day made me curious as to how I might potentially collaborate with them. I realized that it might be a lot easier to do on land where they are not so flighty and capable of running away so quickly, and also where they are congregated in large numbers and most likely feel more comfortable because of it. However, I don't think that collaborating with sea lions would be as interesting as with dolphins, because while the former share similar behaviors and characteristics with well known terrestrial mammals (canines), the latter are fully aquatic in their physiology and possess a unique and challenging mode of communication (sonar) that could be an excellent medium for an art project.
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Animal Attraction
By Sara Selmic (04/13/13 00:26:57)
Related animals: Cat, Chicken, Dog, Goat, Horse, Llama, Pig
The film we watched was rather interesting and insightful. It was definitely a great way to start off this course. I didn't realize how involved people become with animal communication. These women had an entire farm of animals with whom they could interact and even speak with. In the beginning of the film I wasn't sure what to expect and if I was going to be convinced. As the film progressed it seemed as if there was a unique connection between the women and the animals of the farm. The movie really got interesting when one of the women left to London and could tell the horse what she had been doing who would then recite it to one of the other women. That was unreal if it wasn't staged. For one, she was communicating with the horse from miles away and then the woman who had stayed could understand what the horse told her. I just find all of this very surreal and interesting. It's also smart that they used it as a form of proof by not checking what she had done until after the horse had spoken.
Animal communication is an interesting topic. I hope that through our interactions and collaborations with animals that we may learn to communicate with them. I do believe its possible. Animals communicate with each other, and humans often forget that they too are animals, so I don't see why we all can't speak with one another. It might sound farfetched to some, but I find it inspiring and innovative. Hopefully in some future humans will realize the fact that we are all animals and everyone has a voice that should be heard. The non-human animals are not at fault, because they are surely trying to communicate with us, it is humans who choose to ignore this fact.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Selmic (04/13/13 00:26:57)
Related animals: Cat, Chicken, Dog, Goat, Horse, Llama, Pig
The film we watched was rather interesting and insightful. It was definitely a great way to start off this course. I didn't realize how involved people become with animal communication. These women had an entire farm of animals with whom they could interact and even speak with. In the beginning of the film I wasn't sure what to expect and if I was going to be convinced. As the film progressed it seemed as if there was a unique connection between the women and the animals of the farm. The movie really got interesting when one of the women left to London and could tell the horse what she had been doing who would then recite it to one of the other women. That was unreal if it wasn't staged. For one, she was communicating with the horse from miles away and then the woman who had stayed could understand what the horse told her. I just find all of this very surreal and interesting. It's also smart that they used it as a form of proof by not checking what she had done until after the horse had spoken.
Animal communication is an interesting topic. I hope that through our interactions and collaborations with animals that we may learn to communicate with them. I do believe its possible. Animals communicate with each other, and humans often forget that they too are animals, so I don't see why we all can't speak with one another. It might sound farfetched to some, but I find it inspiring and innovative. Hopefully in some future humans will realize the fact that we are all animals and everyone has a voice that should be heard. The non-human animals are not at fault, because they are surely trying to communicate with us, it is humans who choose to ignore this fact.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
animal communicating
By Hilary Elizabeth MacDonald (04/21/10 21:10:14)
Related animal: Tree
Barbara Janelle Visit: Hilary MacDonald
When Barbara Janelle invited the class to go outside and communicate with trees I was extremely skeptical. I walked out the door and headed for a tree in the shade that had vines wrapped around it. I slowly went down the hill towards the tree. When I reached the tree I stared at it the slowly walked away, then re approached it. I tried lying against it but this didn’t seen right then I tried facing it with my hands on the trunk. Still no connection. I was with the tree for about 10 minutes and didn’t feel a single thing or get a question answered.
So after a first failed attempt at communicating with a tree I tried again. It is a tree near my apartment. I was determined and ready to accomplish communication or just any feelings at all. I again approached the tree slowly. Once I reached this tree I again stared at it then walked away then re approached it. I tried sitting this time, with my back against it and asked it questions. Still I felt no connection to this tree. I went home and tried to figure out why I failed so miserable at communicating with the trees. I decided that I would probably just connect better with my dog or parrot. Unfortunatly these two animals are 60 miles away with my parents . I plan on trying to communicate with my dog the next time I go home.
[Write Comment]
By Hilary Elizabeth MacDonald (04/21/10 21:10:14)
Related animal: Tree
Barbara Janelle Visit: Hilary MacDonald
When Barbara Janelle invited the class to go outside and communicate with trees I was extremely skeptical. I walked out the door and headed for a tree in the shade that had vines wrapped around it. I slowly went down the hill towards the tree. When I reached the tree I stared at it the slowly walked away, then re approached it. I tried lying against it but this didn’t seen right then I tried facing it with my hands on the trunk. Still no connection. I was with the tree for about 10 minutes and didn’t feel a single thing or get a question answered.
So after a first failed attempt at communicating with a tree I tried again. It is a tree near my apartment. I was determined and ready to accomplish communication or just any feelings at all. I again approached the tree slowly. Once I reached this tree I again stared at it then walked away then re approached it. I tried sitting this time, with my back against it and asked it questions. Still I felt no connection to this tree. I went home and tried to figure out why I failed so miserable at communicating with the trees. I decided that I would probably just connect better with my dog or parrot. Unfortunatly these two animals are 60 miles away with my parents . I plan on trying to communicate with my dog the next time I go home.
[Write Comment]
Animal Communication
By Ashley Dawkins-Garcia (04/27/09 16:16:54)
Related animal: Cat
For my communication with the animals I first used my roommate's dog Cody. I tried to send messages to Cody but I don't think they went through no matter how I tried especially when I tried the first time, I was completely ignored. There were times I thought I was getting messages but I believe they were messages I was putting in my own head from watching him.
When I went back home this weekend, I tried to communicate with my cat that is most close to me, Patches. Like before, results were pretty much the same as the last one except I wasn't ignored, instead I think my cat gave up on me plus I think she had something do one of those nights.
Despite my simple failures, I believe it is because I was learned to work with animals like a zookeeper or zoologist by observing, behaving and learning from the animal(s). I believe, one can learn so much and have such a bond with another without communicating through the mind.
But I am still curious about communication with animals through the mind.
[Write Comment]
By Ashley Dawkins-Garcia (04/27/09 16:16:54)
Related animal: Cat
For my communication with the animals I first used my roommate's dog Cody. I tried to send messages to Cody but I don't think they went through no matter how I tried especially when I tried the first time, I was completely ignored. There were times I thought I was getting messages but I believe they were messages I was putting in my own head from watching him.
When I went back home this weekend, I tried to communicate with my cat that is most close to me, Patches. Like before, results were pretty much the same as the last one except I wasn't ignored, instead I think my cat gave up on me plus I think she had something do one of those nights.
Despite my simple failures, I believe it is because I was learned to work with animals like a zookeeper or zoologist by observing, behaving and learning from the animal(s). I believe, one can learn so much and have such a bond with another without communicating through the mind.
But I am still curious about communication with animals through the mind.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Animal Communication Exercise
By Erik Shalat (04/17/13 00:50:31)
Related animal: Sea Lion
After sitting through the lecture from animal communicator Barbara Janell, I went out in search of an animal to try to break through the language barrier and communicate with. A few days later, I went jogging with my roommate. Unfortunately I didn’t bring my phone with me because I find carrying it while i’m running is too cumbersome. As we went walking back home along the beach, I saw a young sea lion cub sitting on the rocks. Immediately I sat down on the sand, closed my eyes, and tried to breath out through my legs. After a few minutes I could feel the lower half of my body slipping away, but I could not fully escape my full body with all my senses. I tried as hard as I could to put myself inside the sea lions’s body, thinking of all his joints as my own. For a brief moment it seemed as if I was looking at myself meditating on the beach as I was sitting upon the rocks. I think this was more of myself projecting thoughts into my own head than an actual metaphysical experience. I awoke from meditation and tried to make sense of what just happened. I looked at the cub a bit longer to try and sense something. I had the feeling that the sea lion thought of itself as imposing, liking the attention it was receiving from nearby surfers and people strolling along the beach. At the same time, I sensed that it did not want anyone to come too close. It just wanted to show off. I feel that these were just me trying to characterize the sea lion rather than honest explorations in animal communication. Still, it was the first time I saw a sea lion on that beach and it was an exciting experience.
I didn't take any pictures so the one i'm adding is a placeholder.
[Write Comment]
By Erik Shalat (04/17/13 00:50:31)
Related animal: Sea Lion
After sitting through the lecture from animal communicator Barbara Janell, I went out in search of an animal to try to break through the language barrier and communicate with. A few days later, I went jogging with my roommate. Unfortunately I didn’t bring my phone with me because I find carrying it while i’m running is too cumbersome. As we went walking back home along the beach, I saw a young sea lion cub sitting on the rocks. Immediately I sat down on the sand, closed my eyes, and tried to breath out through my legs. After a few minutes I could feel the lower half of my body slipping away, but I could not fully escape my full body with all my senses. I tried as hard as I could to put myself inside the sea lions’s body, thinking of all his joints as my own. For a brief moment it seemed as if I was looking at myself meditating on the beach as I was sitting upon the rocks. I think this was more of myself projecting thoughts into my own head than an actual metaphysical experience. I awoke from meditation and tried to make sense of what just happened. I looked at the cub a bit longer to try and sense something. I had the feeling that the sea lion thought of itself as imposing, liking the attention it was receiving from nearby surfers and people strolling along the beach. At the same time, I sensed that it did not want anyone to come too close. It just wanted to show off. I feel that these were just me trying to characterize the sea lion rather than honest explorations in animal communication. Still, it was the first time I saw a sea lion on that beach and it was an exciting experience.
I didn't take any pictures so the one i'm adding is a placeholder.
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Reflection: Animal Communication
Animal Communication Response
By Alison Meggs (05/01/14 11:31:48)
Related animal: Dog
On Friday I attempted to communicate with my dog Daisy during a long walk. We stopped at a wooden bench and both sat on the bench, which faced the ocean. I wanted to meditate with Daisy. As I gave a couple minutes for us to both relax, we sat close next to each other listening to the ocean waves. I attempted to match my breaths to hers, and I could hear her slowing down her breathing. I pictured happy thoughts of me and her, and tried to send them over to her. I felt a wave of relaxation sweep upon me, and also happy, positive vibes. I think I may have been feeling Daisy’s energy come back to me.
[Write Comment]
By Alison Meggs (05/01/14 11:31:48)
Related animal: Dog
On Friday I attempted to communicate with my dog Daisy during a long walk. We stopped at a wooden bench and both sat on the bench, which faced the ocean. I wanted to meditate with Daisy. As I gave a couple minutes for us to both relax, we sat close next to each other listening to the ocean waves. I attempted to match my breaths to hers, and I could hear her slowing down her breathing. I pictured happy thoughts of me and her, and tried to send them over to her. I felt a wave of relaxation sweep upon me, and also happy, positive vibes. I think I may have been feeling Daisy’s energy come back to me.
Meditation |
Animal Communicator
By Travis Jepson (04/21/10 23:09:23)
Related animals: Dog, Tree
I thought the advice the animal communicator had to share with us was overall very interesting. Though I may not believe everything she said, I do really believe that her take on approaching animals as well as basic animal philosophy is something good to know
I liked her advice on how to deal with dogs. She pointed out that the characteristics of a scared/nervous dog is, stiff body, eyes wide open and no breathing. In order to make yourself seem more approachable by a dog, Janelle advised us to have a loose body form, breath easily and readily. Perhaps the most valuable piece of information was to blink, its so easy but I found it made a great difference.
I approached a dog outside a restaurant, blinking somewhat quickly as I came close and extended my hand loosely. The dog was very calm and to my surprise it extended it's paw to my wrist, not to do the "shake" trick but just to put it there. I am not saying the dog might have been well trained, but I feel it really helped me approach the dog in a non-threatening manner. Though I am not sure I know the best way to approach an animal, I found Janelle's advice on dealing with dogs to be great advice.
The last piece I wanted to bring up was her statement that "Animals are not people." In our society, we find it appropriate to romanticize the condition of animals, both as pets and in the wild. We are able to connect with animals but it is important to not try and project our own society's values onto another species. I believe it is important to respect living beings, but we must remember that we cannot hold an animal accountable to human standards, nor can we expect to make a connection comparable to a bond on a human level.
[Write Comment]
By Travis Jepson (04/21/10 23:09:23)
Related animals: Dog, Tree
I thought the advice the animal communicator had to share with us was overall very interesting. Though I may not believe everything she said, I do really believe that her take on approaching animals as well as basic animal philosophy is something good to know
I liked her advice on how to deal with dogs. She pointed out that the characteristics of a scared/nervous dog is, stiff body, eyes wide open and no breathing. In order to make yourself seem more approachable by a dog, Janelle advised us to have a loose body form, breath easily and readily. Perhaps the most valuable piece of information was to blink, its so easy but I found it made a great difference.
I approached a dog outside a restaurant, blinking somewhat quickly as I came close and extended my hand loosely. The dog was very calm and to my surprise it extended it's paw to my wrist, not to do the "shake" trick but just to put it there. I am not saying the dog might have been well trained, but I feel it really helped me approach the dog in a non-threatening manner. Though I am not sure I know the best way to approach an animal, I found Janelle's advice on dealing with dogs to be great advice.
The last piece I wanted to bring up was her statement that "Animals are not people." In our society, we find it appropriate to romanticize the condition of animals, both as pets and in the wild. We are able to connect with animals but it is important to not try and project our own society's values onto another species. I believe it is important to respect living beings, but we must remember that we cannot hold an animal accountable to human standards, nor can we expect to make a connection comparable to a bond on a human level.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Animal communicator
By Evan Hynes (04/22/10 21:42:10)
Related animals: Dog, Tree
I believe Barbara Janell is slightly crazy. I went into the workshop with an open mind. I honestly thought she would each us how to communicate with animals to a certain degree. As a pet owner myself, I am well aware of the desire us humans have for animals to have the same emotions as we do and to love us back as much as we love them. Barbara Janell seems to use this form of projection as her main way to communicate with animals. I believe that she believes that she is communicating with the animals and trees and other species. But I am not convinced she is. I think she is guessing what the animals is feeling and interpreting her own guess as fact. I asked her about there maybe being a chance that she is just projecting her own feelings onto the animals. She retorted by simply saying that there is no way that could be the case, that she has a special connection to animals. She also spoke at a rate similar to that of a slow-motion video. This made the whole lecture even more ridiculous. Maybe I would have been drawn in a little more and taken it a little more seriously had she been able to have a normal discussion with us students, as opposed to her lecturing on abstract spiritual ideas with minute-long passes in between sentences. Its not that I don't respect her, i just cant take her work seriously. But then again, if she has convinced people that what she is doing is legitimate and she feels the same way about her work, then who is to say it isn't legitimate. Isn't that what all artists do? So in some strange sense, I suppose her work could be considered art in some strange way... Then again, I for one am not convinced, so I see her work as neither artistic nor legitimate.
[Write Comment]
By Evan Hynes (04/22/10 21:42:10)
Related animals: Dog, Tree
I believe Barbara Janell is slightly crazy. I went into the workshop with an open mind. I honestly thought she would each us how to communicate with animals to a certain degree. As a pet owner myself, I am well aware of the desire us humans have for animals to have the same emotions as we do and to love us back as much as we love them. Barbara Janell seems to use this form of projection as her main way to communicate with animals. I believe that she believes that she is communicating with the animals and trees and other species. But I am not convinced she is. I think she is guessing what the animals is feeling and interpreting her own guess as fact. I asked her about there maybe being a chance that she is just projecting her own feelings onto the animals. She retorted by simply saying that there is no way that could be the case, that she has a special connection to animals. She also spoke at a rate similar to that of a slow-motion video. This made the whole lecture even more ridiculous. Maybe I would have been drawn in a little more and taken it a little more seriously had she been able to have a normal discussion with us students, as opposed to her lecturing on abstract spiritual ideas with minute-long passes in between sentences. Its not that I don't respect her, i just cant take her work seriously. But then again, if she has convinced people that what she is doing is legitimate and she feels the same way about her work, then who is to say it isn't legitimate. Isn't that what all artists do? So in some strange sense, I suppose her work could be considered art in some strange way... Then again, I for one am not convinced, so I see her work as neither artistic nor legitimate.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Animal Communicator
By Laura Santizo (04/22/13 00:00:10)
The concept of interspecies communication has always intrigued me so finally meeting an animal communicator was a great experience. All my preconceived notions about psychics and communication between two different realms could finally either be challenged or my doubts finally be put to rest.
I thought it was interesting that she that began with exercises that made us aware of our own bodies. I am an avid believer that most of our actions and interactions are subjected to levels of processing that occur at subconscious level. I think few people really take the time to connect with their inner selves, to join their body and mind. I particularly like the exercise where she had us imagine different scenarios. I found them to be enlightening as they revealed the different ways in which we process information and/or stimuli. I think this reveals the subjective nature of human experience. I found that these exercises really made us in a way, "stop to smell the flowers," that is really take time to engage and focus on how our environment acts upon us.
While I do believe that all living things possess a unique energy and that sometimes this energy can transfer between species, I don't know how much of the intended message is truly communicated. Sure, we could try to imagine what it would feel like to be a certain animal and how it might react to in a given situation, I can't help but feel that this humans way of trying to bridge a barrier that has been set by nature itself. I don't believe that humans will ever know what an animal is actually saying but agree that through interactions we can become sensitive to an animal's way of being. That is we can learn of its tendencies and personality and in this way come to understand and interact in a more positive manner.
For this reason I think that animal communicators don't have a special mechanism that allows them to speak to animals instead I think they have techniques for quieting their mind which therefore allows them to be more observant and attentive to the animals needs.
[Write Comment]
By Laura Santizo (04/22/13 00:00:10)
The concept of interspecies communication has always intrigued me so finally meeting an animal communicator was a great experience. All my preconceived notions about psychics and communication between two different realms could finally either be challenged or my doubts finally be put to rest.
I thought it was interesting that she that began with exercises that made us aware of our own bodies. I am an avid believer that most of our actions and interactions are subjected to levels of processing that occur at subconscious level. I think few people really take the time to connect with their inner selves, to join their body and mind. I particularly like the exercise where she had us imagine different scenarios. I found them to be enlightening as they revealed the different ways in which we process information and/or stimuli. I think this reveals the subjective nature of human experience. I found that these exercises really made us in a way, "stop to smell the flowers," that is really take time to engage and focus on how our environment acts upon us.
While I do believe that all living things possess a unique energy and that sometimes this energy can transfer between species, I don't know how much of the intended message is truly communicated. Sure, we could try to imagine what it would feel like to be a certain animal and how it might react to in a given situation, I can't help but feel that this humans way of trying to bridge a barrier that has been set by nature itself. I don't believe that humans will ever know what an animal is actually saying but agree that through interactions we can become sensitive to an animal's way of being. That is we can learn of its tendencies and personality and in this way come to understand and interact in a more positive manner.
For this reason I think that animal communicators don't have a special mechanism that allows them to speak to animals instead I think they have techniques for quieting their mind which therefore allows them to be more observant and attentive to the animals needs.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
animal communicator Barbara Janelle
By Jennifer Lee Lin (04/22/10 19:25:35)
Related animal: Dog
I think i felt much more of a connection with the tree i chose (or mutually chose each other?) than i did with any of the animals people brought in. when i left the classroom i immediately started walking to that tree (tree in the middle of the lawn by lagoon, with 5 trunks), but midway i got distracted by a group of 3 trees with a lot of shade and ivy. i literally just came to a stop and i kept looking back and forth, but i eventually stayed to my original choice.
When i was with the tree, i dont know if it spoke to me, but just feeling the firmness of the trunk supporting me and the warmth of the sunshine on my face, i felt myself settle down and be at peace. I just said out loud the things that were pressing on my mind, and im pretty sure it didnt know what i was talking about, but i felt better, and i felt more able to deal with the problems. when i walked away from the tree and i decided to lay on the grass in the sunshine for a while, and while resting i could feel the roots of the tree underneath me growing and living. it might have just been my imagination but in any case, i felt what i felt.
trying to connect with the 3 dogs, cat and hermit crab in the room later on didn't do much for me. I think i will continue with the tree therapy and collaboration...
[Write Comment]
By Jennifer Lee Lin (04/22/10 19:25:35)
Related animal: Dog
I think i felt much more of a connection with the tree i chose (or mutually chose each other?) than i did with any of the animals people brought in. when i left the classroom i immediately started walking to that tree (tree in the middle of the lawn by lagoon, with 5 trunks), but midway i got distracted by a group of 3 trees with a lot of shade and ivy. i literally just came to a stop and i kept looking back and forth, but i eventually stayed to my original choice.
When i was with the tree, i dont know if it spoke to me, but just feeling the firmness of the trunk supporting me and the warmth of the sunshine on my face, i felt myself settle down and be at peace. I just said out loud the things that were pressing on my mind, and im pretty sure it didnt know what i was talking about, but i felt better, and i felt more able to deal with the problems. when i walked away from the tree and i decided to lay on the grass in the sunshine for a while, and while resting i could feel the roots of the tree underneath me growing and living. it might have just been my imagination but in any case, i felt what i felt.
trying to connect with the 3 dogs, cat and hermit crab in the room later on didn't do much for me. I think i will continue with the tree therapy and collaboration...
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Animal Relations
By Jenny Roberts (04/14/13 19:45:22)
Related animals: Australian Shepherd, Bermuda Sheep, Cat, Chicken, Dog, Fish, Hamster, Horse, Human, Rabbit, Rat, Rooster, Stray Cat, Tortoise
To be honest when I showed up to the first day of this class I had no clue what this class was about, It fit into my schedule and I was hoping for the best. I was very intrigued in learning that the topic was interspecies communication however I was initially very worried, thinking, "Oh no, I don't have enough experience with animals!" my train of thought being in the formal sense. This, however, was quickly eliminated from my thoughts once we started talking about our history with animals. In my life my family and I have been fortunate enough to have through the years, 17 chickens, 9 cats, 8 dogs, 5 horses, 3 bermuda sheep, 3 tortoises, 4 guine pigs, 3 hamsters, 4 bunnies, 1 rooster, 1 rat, and far too many fish to count. Some have graced us with many years of companionship, other's time was more fleeting. The present count is 3 horses; 17 year old(owned for 15) arabian (Miss)Lily, and newly acquired tenesse walking horses Kahlua and Joy, 2 dogs 12 year old Yorkie(My Little) Trinket, and 3 yeah old Chihuahua/Deer mix (joking... we think possibly a rat terrier...or great dane) Kali, 2 bermuda female sheep Flopsie and Mopsie, I barnam chicken, Cutie, and the recently acquired and yet to be named (I vote Patootie) rooster. My housemate in Isla Vista also has 2 year old corgie mix, Sophie, who has more friends than anyone I know. The past year has been rough animal wise we lost our precious 11 year old yorkie Max(imus the General), 9 barnam chickens, 7 former cage chickens, and my wonderful 1 year old cat, who thought he was a dog, Catcher(aka Holden Clawfield) all to the coyote's that occupy the area near my parents house and well as our wonderful 19 year old Arabian/National Showhorse, Star('s Impression) to pnemonia. So that is essentially as short of an introduction I can possibly make to my past and present animals themselves. Growing up with so many lovebugs...as well as a couple not so lovely specimens: evil attempted murderer Rambo the...you guessed it, ram and Freckles, the seemingly nice stray that wanted to stay that way, I have always been a huge animal lover.
My mother, sister, and I were avet horsies when I was younger, my sister and I used to take lessons multiple times a week and showed western pleasure for a few years as well and my family were active members of the High Desert Arabian Horse Association until its dissolve. Though I still deeply love horses I rarely ride anymore after I had a personal revelation that I personally feel that riding another creature for sport is extremely weird. Horses have a large part in the lives of a few of my other family members, my mothers cousin and her husband have run Walking the Dog Ranch a Colorado based Tennessee Walker ranch and showing company. Another of my mother's cousin's was the first female jockey to ride three winner's in on day at Churchill Downs (yes, I'm very proud of my family).
I love animals...what can I say, I oftern feel they understand me much more than people and even myself.
[Write Comment]
By Jenny Roberts (04/14/13 19:45:22)
Related animals: Australian Shepherd, Bermuda Sheep, Cat, Chicken, Dog, Fish, Hamster, Horse, Human, Rabbit, Rat, Rooster, Stray Cat, Tortoise
To be honest when I showed up to the first day of this class I had no clue what this class was about, It fit into my schedule and I was hoping for the best. I was very intrigued in learning that the topic was interspecies communication however I was initially very worried, thinking, "Oh no, I don't have enough experience with animals!" my train of thought being in the formal sense. This, however, was quickly eliminated from my thoughts once we started talking about our history with animals. In my life my family and I have been fortunate enough to have through the years, 17 chickens, 9 cats, 8 dogs, 5 horses, 3 bermuda sheep, 3 tortoises, 4 guine pigs, 3 hamsters, 4 bunnies, 1 rooster, 1 rat, and far too many fish to count. Some have graced us with many years of companionship, other's time was more fleeting. The present count is 3 horses; 17 year old(owned for 15) arabian (Miss)Lily, and newly acquired tenesse walking horses Kahlua and Joy, 2 dogs 12 year old Yorkie(My Little) Trinket, and 3 yeah old Chihuahua/Deer mix (joking... we think possibly a rat terrier...or great dane) Kali, 2 bermuda female sheep Flopsie and Mopsie, I barnam chicken, Cutie, and the recently acquired and yet to be named (I vote Patootie) rooster. My housemate in Isla Vista also has 2 year old corgie mix, Sophie, who has more friends than anyone I know. The past year has been rough animal wise we lost our precious 11 year old yorkie Max(imus the General), 9 barnam chickens, 7 former cage chickens, and my wonderful 1 year old cat, who thought he was a dog, Catcher(aka Holden Clawfield) all to the coyote's that occupy the area near my parents house and well as our wonderful 19 year old Arabian/National Showhorse, Star('s Impression) to pnemonia. So that is essentially as short of an introduction I can possibly make to my past and present animals themselves. Growing up with so many lovebugs...as well as a couple not so lovely specimens: evil attempted murderer Rambo the...you guessed it, ram and Freckles, the seemingly nice stray that wanted to stay that way, I have always been a huge animal lover.
My mother, sister, and I were avet horsies when I was younger, my sister and I used to take lessons multiple times a week and showed western pleasure for a few years as well and my family were active members of the High Desert Arabian Horse Association until its dissolve. Though I still deeply love horses I rarely ride anymore after I had a personal revelation that I personally feel that riding another creature for sport is extremely weird. Horses have a large part in the lives of a few of my other family members, my mothers cousin and her husband have run Walking the Dog Ranch a Colorado based Tennessee Walker ranch and showing company. Another of my mother's cousin's was the first female jockey to ride three winner's in on day at Churchill Downs (yes, I'm very proud of my family).
I love animals...what can I say, I oftern feel they understand me much more than people and even myself.
[Write Comment]
Other: Other Related Research
Animals I have known.
By Madison Wanamaker (04/10/13 21:00:11)
Related animals: Bird, Cat, Cow, Dog, Fish, Horse, Hummingbird, Kitten, Lizard, Mice, Pigeon, Possum, Rat, Sea Lion, Tortoise, Turtle
I was asked to write about special memories or connections I have with animals and I realize I have known so many intelligent and unique personalities. Like so many people the first animal I ever loved was my dog. Her name was Ashley and she was a golden retriever. A lot of people will tell you their dogs are smarter then others, but believe me, Ashley was exceptional. She could open ovens and refrigerators, and never needed a leash. My parents and my older brother treated Ashley like she was human. She could sleep inside and ride in the car, I never questioned Ashley's intelligence or worth, she had pictures on the wall, she was part of the family. She died quietly of old age right in front of me. I was five.
Two or three years later we got two new puppies, brittany spaniels named Brittany and Monty. They are tall, beautiful, and loving but not at all smart. Sneaks and Chai, my cats, were actually closer to me than the dogs. We found Sneaks during a family road trip to Utah and he might have been the biggest cat I have ever seen. When he was young he would bring the live animals he caught in through the cat door and let them run around my brother’s room- there were half eaten birds and countless sacrificed opossums, rats, mice, lizards, and sadly one kitten. I loved Sneaks anyway, especially since he tormented my older brother so. We found Chai in a dumpster with cuts on her mouth and face, she was oddly fat with an oddly small head but still cute. She was shy but every once and a while when it was late she would sit on your lap and spend time with you. She always wanted to play with Sneaks but he was obviously annoyed. Sneaks lived to be very old, his coat went from dark black to red orange to grey and he grew so thin you could see every rib. I didn’t see much of him then, I was in college and one day I heard he had not been home in a couple days. The next week Chai left and we have never seen either of them again. It’s hard to lose those you have known you whole life.
Here at college I have a rat named Pickles I adopted from the LA Small Animal Orphanage. She is so smart! I never thought I would know a rat so well. I am lucky to have Pickles because I think about animals a lot and I like having her in my house to talk to and spend time with. She trusts me more then I thought a small animal could trust a human. I see her watching me when I walk around my room and I know she listens to me because she definitely knows what the words “Pickles” and “treats” mean.
I have known so many animals, I rode horses, and volunteered with sea lions, I had fish and a turtle, and spent a lot of time at aquariums and parks. It may be the way my parents treated our animals when I was young, but animals are very important to me and my relationship to them seems different then most people’s around me. I don’t know how people can love their dogs and cats and not think twice about eating a burger because it’s a cow. I hope that my generation, which seems to advertise themselves as more socially and environmentally conscious, will begin the shift to a more respectful relationship with animals.
[Write Comment]
By Madison Wanamaker (04/10/13 21:00:11)
Related animals: Bird, Cat, Cow, Dog, Fish, Horse, Hummingbird, Kitten, Lizard, Mice, Pigeon, Possum, Rat, Sea Lion, Tortoise, Turtle
I was asked to write about special memories or connections I have with animals and I realize I have known so many intelligent and unique personalities. Like so many people the first animal I ever loved was my dog. Her name was Ashley and she was a golden retriever. A lot of people will tell you their dogs are smarter then others, but believe me, Ashley was exceptional. She could open ovens and refrigerators, and never needed a leash. My parents and my older brother treated Ashley like she was human. She could sleep inside and ride in the car, I never questioned Ashley's intelligence or worth, she had pictures on the wall, she was part of the family. She died quietly of old age right in front of me. I was five.
Two or three years later we got two new puppies, brittany spaniels named Brittany and Monty. They are tall, beautiful, and loving but not at all smart. Sneaks and Chai, my cats, were actually closer to me than the dogs. We found Sneaks during a family road trip to Utah and he might have been the biggest cat I have ever seen. When he was young he would bring the live animals he caught in through the cat door and let them run around my brother’s room- there were half eaten birds and countless sacrificed opossums, rats, mice, lizards, and sadly one kitten. I loved Sneaks anyway, especially since he tormented my older brother so. We found Chai in a dumpster with cuts on her mouth and face, she was oddly fat with an oddly small head but still cute. She was shy but every once and a while when it was late she would sit on your lap and spend time with you. She always wanted to play with Sneaks but he was obviously annoyed. Sneaks lived to be very old, his coat went from dark black to red orange to grey and he grew so thin you could see every rib. I didn’t see much of him then, I was in college and one day I heard he had not been home in a couple days. The next week Chai left and we have never seen either of them again. It’s hard to lose those you have known you whole life.
Here at college I have a rat named Pickles I adopted from the LA Small Animal Orphanage. She is so smart! I never thought I would know a rat so well. I am lucky to have Pickles because I think about animals a lot and I like having her in my house to talk to and spend time with. She trusts me more then I thought a small animal could trust a human. I see her watching me when I walk around my room and I know she listens to me because she definitely knows what the words “Pickles” and “treats” mean.
I have known so many animals, I rode horses, and volunteered with sea lions, I had fish and a turtle, and spent a lot of time at aquariums and parks. It may be the way my parents treated our animals when I was young, but animals are very important to me and my relationship to them seems different then most people’s around me. I don’t know how people can love their dogs and cats and not think twice about eating a burger because it’s a cow. I hope that my generation, which seems to advertise themselves as more socially and environmentally conscious, will begin the shift to a more respectful relationship with animals.
Pickles! | 
My old man Sneaks |
Reflection: Art Related to Animal Rights
Animals in Art
By Montana McLeod (05/28/14 21:30:21)
Steven Baker expressed that artist and viewers hold various views of utilizing animals in art alike, however, he reinstates that it is important to place trust in the artist and their intentions. Baker argues that artist treat animals as creatures in a part of the “more-than-human world” that coincide with the human world. In essence, the animals are reflective of a world that we are not a part of or necessarily understand. Nonetheless, we feel entitled to a representation of their world.
Baker makes the case that for the art to be valued and the efforts made against the animals justifiable, the public must take the art seriously before questioning the ethics in their intentions. If the art can reflect a moral lesson and impact its viewers, who is to say that it is morally wrong if the intended purpose is to teach a lesson?
Baker criticizes the Rat Piece for its immediate and direct experience as Jones felt it was absolutely necessary to involve living animals and their transition through death. His reflection on the inconsistency in Jone’s performance demonstrates the change in perception over time. Baker, however, states that some inconsistency is better for the development of the art piece.
Baker critiques that Helena attempts to justify its methods as a medium for social change, but it is not necessarily representative of honest intensions. Baker argues that morality just consists of norms, to which we are expected to submit to, which is essentially what the artists are testing in the applications of these methods. In some ways I feel like Baker does not defend the Rat Piece or Helena, but is defending the presumptions made regarding the artists. He understands that the artist have created these pieces in order to facilitate a reaction regarding the ethics in utilizing animals. He argues that it is best to trust the artist and their intentions as their actions may be harmful and detrimental, but they are not done in vain. They are done to teach a lesson and instigate a change in the way we perceive morals.
I, however, think that an artistic representation of a moral value should not be done counteractively. With that being said, I feel like demonstrating the adverse effects of human power over animals should not be recreated by doing such horrible atrocities they advocate against. You are essentially fighting fire with fire, and create this paradox about moral integrity once you have subjected yourself to the very acts that do harm against animals. The ethical responsibility of artist is to take into account that the animal is a living organism, just like any other human, and their rights cannot be disregarded. And by rights, I mean the right to not be mistreated and the right to be respected as an individual of a living species who is capable of feeling pain and remorse.
Snaebjornsdotter says that animal rights within the artistic hemisphere cannot be deliberated against without taking into account the actions of utilizing animals for scientific research. This is truly an excellent point that I am guilty of not fully acknowledging before taking this class. To break it down simply, animals are used in science to gain knowledge about research for the benefit of the human race. However, animals in art can facilitate a deeper understanding of a value or of a problem that is intended to benefit the human race. Yes, animals in science seems more acceptable than in art due to the plethora of research papers validating how the study of animal behaviors reflect scientific research. Nonetheless, that in no way should trivialize the experience one can receive from an art exhibit regarding the problems with anthropogenic factors affecting animals and their inherent rights. The more important question is whether or not it is even right to utilize animals for the better understanding of human life? What great power, other than human intelligence, entitles us to “use” another living organism to our benefit?
But we do live in a world where animals are necessary for survival and a natural part of the food chain. I do believe that it is ethical to use animals for food as we need the nutrients we receive from the animals to live a healthy lifestyle. Yes there are ways to work around it to receive said nutrients, however, in almost all primitive lifestyles animals hunt animals as a natural part of the predator-prey relationship. Still, you do not typically see predators using their prey in the natural environment to gain further knowledge about their own species. This, conversely, all goes back to what one considers natural.
The Bees making Art article brings to light how the current diminishing ecological state of bees has actually uprooted a bee culture within the art community and how interspecies collaborations have made bees aesthetically and culturally valuable. They question how art in previous centuries have shaped the representation of honeybees in the 21st century. Unlike baker’s text, this text references how art can be created by the species on its own. The bees are working with humans as oppose to humans controlling the fate of these animals, such as in Baker’s text. The animals can give their own response and leave evidence of their own artistic work. It represents the individual species, not just the species as a collective representation of all animals.
[Write Comment]
By Montana McLeod (05/28/14 21:30:21)
Steven Baker expressed that artist and viewers hold various views of utilizing animals in art alike, however, he reinstates that it is important to place trust in the artist and their intentions. Baker argues that artist treat animals as creatures in a part of the “more-than-human world” that coincide with the human world. In essence, the animals are reflective of a world that we are not a part of or necessarily understand. Nonetheless, we feel entitled to a representation of their world.
Baker makes the case that for the art to be valued and the efforts made against the animals justifiable, the public must take the art seriously before questioning the ethics in their intentions. If the art can reflect a moral lesson and impact its viewers, who is to say that it is morally wrong if the intended purpose is to teach a lesson?
Baker criticizes the Rat Piece for its immediate and direct experience as Jones felt it was absolutely necessary to involve living animals and their transition through death. His reflection on the inconsistency in Jone’s performance demonstrates the change in perception over time. Baker, however, states that some inconsistency is better for the development of the art piece.
Baker critiques that Helena attempts to justify its methods as a medium for social change, but it is not necessarily representative of honest intensions. Baker argues that morality just consists of norms, to which we are expected to submit to, which is essentially what the artists are testing in the applications of these methods. In some ways I feel like Baker does not defend the Rat Piece or Helena, but is defending the presumptions made regarding the artists. He understands that the artist have created these pieces in order to facilitate a reaction regarding the ethics in utilizing animals. He argues that it is best to trust the artist and their intentions as their actions may be harmful and detrimental, but they are not done in vain. They are done to teach a lesson and instigate a change in the way we perceive morals.
I, however, think that an artistic representation of a moral value should not be done counteractively. With that being said, I feel like demonstrating the adverse effects of human power over animals should not be recreated by doing such horrible atrocities they advocate against. You are essentially fighting fire with fire, and create this paradox about moral integrity once you have subjected yourself to the very acts that do harm against animals. The ethical responsibility of artist is to take into account that the animal is a living organism, just like any other human, and their rights cannot be disregarded. And by rights, I mean the right to not be mistreated and the right to be respected as an individual of a living species who is capable of feeling pain and remorse.
Snaebjornsdotter says that animal rights within the artistic hemisphere cannot be deliberated against without taking into account the actions of utilizing animals for scientific research. This is truly an excellent point that I am guilty of not fully acknowledging before taking this class. To break it down simply, animals are used in science to gain knowledge about research for the benefit of the human race. However, animals in art can facilitate a deeper understanding of a value or of a problem that is intended to benefit the human race. Yes, animals in science seems more acceptable than in art due to the plethora of research papers validating how the study of animal behaviors reflect scientific research. Nonetheless, that in no way should trivialize the experience one can receive from an art exhibit regarding the problems with anthropogenic factors affecting animals and their inherent rights. The more important question is whether or not it is even right to utilize animals for the better understanding of human life? What great power, other than human intelligence, entitles us to “use” another living organism to our benefit?
But we do live in a world where animals are necessary for survival and a natural part of the food chain. I do believe that it is ethical to use animals for food as we need the nutrients we receive from the animals to live a healthy lifestyle. Yes there are ways to work around it to receive said nutrients, however, in almost all primitive lifestyles animals hunt animals as a natural part of the predator-prey relationship. Still, you do not typically see predators using their prey in the natural environment to gain further knowledge about their own species. This, conversely, all goes back to what one considers natural.
The Bees making Art article brings to light how the current diminishing ecological state of bees has actually uprooted a bee culture within the art community and how interspecies collaborations have made bees aesthetically and culturally valuable. They question how art in previous centuries have shaped the representation of honeybees in the 21st century. Unlike baker’s text, this text references how art can be created by the species on its own. The bees are working with humans as oppose to humans controlling the fate of these animals, such as in Baker’s text. The animals can give their own response and leave evidence of their own artistic work. It represents the individual species, not just the species as a collective representation of all animals.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Arctic Dreams
By Montana McLeod (04/30/14 22:25:17)
The author is secluded in the Arctic and elaborates on the common misconception of the Arctic as an impoverished, desolate, pagan where little development can persist. His defense against the Western view associated with the arctic is interesting in his attempt to change the reader’s perception. He illustrates the land through his eyes. He explains not only how he has come to see the land, but how the native Eskimos see the land, whose whole life is summarized within the said pagan and desolate land. From a western perception it is much easier to value the land for what it has to offer. We look at the world and land in a cause and effect relationship, as though the experiences are structured as black and white and understood through primitive intent. The western world does not have the same values as the natives of the Arctic Tundra. What the Eskimos do value proves rather interesting to my own preconceived ideas of the arctic.
They value the way their mind can evolve to follow the ridges and grains of the land. That with the ever-changing landscape, their mind forms to fit these newly defined contours. Their life does not persist outside of the land, meaning it is unfathomable for the factors that affect the landscape to not intimately affect them as well. He even describes that the “spiritual landscape exists in the physical landscape.” The native people value the land so that they root natural experiences and the physical land as sacred and evident in spiritual representation. It is so easy to get lost in the natural world and I feel like valuing the land for more than just its resources is a way of connecting with the native people. The native people feel that they coexist with the land and understand the land in a way that researchers looking for a specific criteria cannot. The Eskimos can facilitate these incredible maps because they take into account every aspect of the land. Most nonnative people simply look for traits that are categorical and previously studied. They have a hard time looking outside of the box, and seeing without searching. I understand this structured perspective, as it is much simpler to look for something specific, than it is to observe and then break it down to its function. Their understanding of the land is conceptual and derived from experience.
The author argues that to know the land you must live within the natural habitat, watch the migrations, sleep in the dirt, and travel chronologically as the migrations would. I think the idea of living in the natural habitat can be applied to interspecies collaboration quite effortlessly. In essence, the only way to come to value something will be through seeing from another’s perspective. If you physically put yourself in the place of another’s shoes, you will see what these objects and places have to offer that might not have been significant to your own lifestyle. The slope and the moisture of the ground now has purpose to it, the ability to plan for the future is essentially lost and your actions will be reduced to your natural instincts.
From a scientific perspective, I value the way that the marine biologist and other researchers regard the information of the arctic as equal to the knowledge gained from their collaborations with the native people. They see the beauty in the way the birds create a static schedule that repeats every 24 hours, and how this pattern in and of itself flows in equilibrium with the environment as a whole. The biologists look at these animals and see more than the anthropogenic potential. They see that even individually, the animals are larger than just a subject of an experiment. It is the industry that values animals as a means of developing. The scientists argue that animals are much more than the numbers and figures they acquire through research. The statistics imposed on them often trivialize their existence; moreover I believe it would be beneficial to explore significance outside of statistics. However, to address the status of the animals in the way that the natives do, the message is often not received and misinterpreted.
The author states, “The physical landscape is an unstructured abode of space and time and is not entirely fathomable.” He argues that this is exactly what gives us the desire to explore and identify with the vast environment in a personal and self-reflective way. I think this is a fascinating concept. The separation between space and time posses many questions as to at what point do they separate or if they even separate at all. Many theories regarding the existence of life in relation to space and time have evolved due to diverse cultural perceptions. The ambiguity of the land within space and time essentially opens your mind to see the smaller aspects of life as an even bigger power and entity than ever explored. I think the way that the different cultures value space and time is so extraordinary and apparent in what they value, as well as how they choose to live their life.
[Write Comment]
By Montana McLeod (04/30/14 22:25:17)
The author is secluded in the Arctic and elaborates on the common misconception of the Arctic as an impoverished, desolate, pagan where little development can persist. His defense against the Western view associated with the arctic is interesting in his attempt to change the reader’s perception. He illustrates the land through his eyes. He explains not only how he has come to see the land, but how the native Eskimos see the land, whose whole life is summarized within the said pagan and desolate land. From a western perception it is much easier to value the land for what it has to offer. We look at the world and land in a cause and effect relationship, as though the experiences are structured as black and white and understood through primitive intent. The western world does not have the same values as the natives of the Arctic Tundra. What the Eskimos do value proves rather interesting to my own preconceived ideas of the arctic.
They value the way their mind can evolve to follow the ridges and grains of the land. That with the ever-changing landscape, their mind forms to fit these newly defined contours. Their life does not persist outside of the land, meaning it is unfathomable for the factors that affect the landscape to not intimately affect them as well. He even describes that the “spiritual landscape exists in the physical landscape.” The native people value the land so that they root natural experiences and the physical land as sacred and evident in spiritual representation. It is so easy to get lost in the natural world and I feel like valuing the land for more than just its resources is a way of connecting with the native people. The native people feel that they coexist with the land and understand the land in a way that researchers looking for a specific criteria cannot. The Eskimos can facilitate these incredible maps because they take into account every aspect of the land. Most nonnative people simply look for traits that are categorical and previously studied. They have a hard time looking outside of the box, and seeing without searching. I understand this structured perspective, as it is much simpler to look for something specific, than it is to observe and then break it down to its function. Their understanding of the land is conceptual and derived from experience.
The author argues that to know the land you must live within the natural habitat, watch the migrations, sleep in the dirt, and travel chronologically as the migrations would. I think the idea of living in the natural habitat can be applied to interspecies collaboration quite effortlessly. In essence, the only way to come to value something will be through seeing from another’s perspective. If you physically put yourself in the place of another’s shoes, you will see what these objects and places have to offer that might not have been significant to your own lifestyle. The slope and the moisture of the ground now has purpose to it, the ability to plan for the future is essentially lost and your actions will be reduced to your natural instincts.
From a scientific perspective, I value the way that the marine biologist and other researchers regard the information of the arctic as equal to the knowledge gained from their collaborations with the native people. They see the beauty in the way the birds create a static schedule that repeats every 24 hours, and how this pattern in and of itself flows in equilibrium with the environment as a whole. The biologists look at these animals and see more than the anthropogenic potential. They see that even individually, the animals are larger than just a subject of an experiment. It is the industry that values animals as a means of developing. The scientists argue that animals are much more than the numbers and figures they acquire through research. The statistics imposed on them often trivialize their existence; moreover I believe it would be beneficial to explore significance outside of statistics. However, to address the status of the animals in the way that the natives do, the message is often not received and misinterpreted.
The author states, “The physical landscape is an unstructured abode of space and time and is not entirely fathomable.” He argues that this is exactly what gives us the desire to explore and identify with the vast environment in a personal and self-reflective way. I think this is a fascinating concept. The separation between space and time posses many questions as to at what point do they separate or if they even separate at all. Many theories regarding the existence of life in relation to space and time have evolved due to diverse cultural perceptions. The ambiguity of the land within space and time essentially opens your mind to see the smaller aspects of life as an even bigger power and entity than ever explored. I think the way that the different cultures value space and time is so extraordinary and apparent in what they value, as well as how they choose to live their life.
[Write Comment]
Arctic Dreams Comments
By Rachel Fleming (04/18/14 19:10:17)
-The author wanders around making mental notes of the nature that surrounds him. I can picture the landscape in my head fairly clearly, especially since I make similar observations when I’m out exploring nature…noting the kinds of birds present and what they appear to be doing…focusing on sounds, smells…admiring the presence of nature all around and connections between species.
-I do not think that the observation of wolf “remembering” where it hid its food was accurate. The wolf probably did not rely on visual cues from its landscape. It likely smelled where it was hidden or remembered a smell nearby.
-Liked the question asked by the Eskimo about being able to “see into tomorrow.” The attempted translations of this comment were clever.
-"For hunting peoples, for example, says Levi-Strauss, an animal is held in high totemic regard not merely because it is food and therefore good to eat but because it is "good to think." The animal is "good to imagine." – I like this idea. Amazing how there are ideas in other cultures and languages that we have no words for in English.
-Interesting how accurately the eskimo drew a map of the area! Also interesting is how they could not imagine being detached from the natural landscape
-“The aspiration of aboriginal people throughout the world has been to achieve a congruent relationship with the land, to fit well in it.” This is definitely an idea that would have sounded shocking to the first white American settlers, who believed wild land to be mysterious, evil, and in need of human taming.
[Write Comment]
By Rachel Fleming (04/18/14 19:10:17)
-The author wanders around making mental notes of the nature that surrounds him. I can picture the landscape in my head fairly clearly, especially since I make similar observations when I’m out exploring nature…noting the kinds of birds present and what they appear to be doing…focusing on sounds, smells…admiring the presence of nature all around and connections between species.
-I do not think that the observation of wolf “remembering” where it hid its food was accurate. The wolf probably did not rely on visual cues from its landscape. It likely smelled where it was hidden or remembered a smell nearby.
-Liked the question asked by the Eskimo about being able to “see into tomorrow.” The attempted translations of this comment were clever.
-"For hunting peoples, for example, says Levi-Strauss, an animal is held in high totemic regard not merely because it is food and therefore good to eat but because it is "good to think." The animal is "good to imagine." – I like this idea. Amazing how there are ideas in other cultures and languages that we have no words for in English.
-Interesting how accurately the eskimo drew a map of the area! Also interesting is how they could not imagine being detached from the natural landscape
-“The aspiration of aboriginal people throughout the world has been to achieve a congruent relationship with the land, to fit well in it.” This is definitely an idea that would have sounded shocking to the first white American settlers, who believed wild land to be mysterious, evil, and in need of human taming.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Play Behavior
Arrow the Dog
By Mark Linggi (06/03/10 17:51:46)
Related animal: Dog
My friend Michael has recently fostered a dog named Arrow. What fostering for dogs is is when an individual temporarily adopts a pet. In this time, the clinic provides the food and other necessary essentials for the pet, while the guardian provides the home and care for the animal. The guardian takes care of the dog until the dog gets adopted by a permanent family. Although this prevents the dog from being inside a pound and stuck inside with minimal attention and exercise, I can't also help to think of the emotional ramifications of what this can do for the pet and the temporary guardian. I know how much Mike loves taking care of Arrow. Its as if this new sense of responsibility has changed his outlook of his priorities. But just as much as Mike cares for Arrow, I know the feelings are reciprocated on Arrow's behalf.
Where ever we go, Arrow always makes sure that Mike is around. It seems that Mike is the only one who can consistently drag Arrow's attention away from what else is going on in the world. And when outside, Arrow goes leashless as long as Mike is close by. I often worry when these two will eventually separate because I know that both will be hit emotionally.
But despite this slight default, this program has proven to be positive for the dog. For one thing, I have noticed that Arrow has a lot of odd quirks, that makes me believe that he had not a very good life before he and Mike got together. First of all, he became very scared of certain areas of campus. To get to those areas, it was like we had to take paths around just to get to a specific area. Secondly, while walking in IV, a homeless man, whom we have never encountered, called out Arrow by name. Arrow began to bark and back away as soon as this happened. We concluded that this homeless man must have been Arrow's previous owner, and that he did not take very good care of him. Despite this poor upbringing, Arrow has turned out to be such a good and friendly dog.
[Write Comment]
By Mark Linggi (06/03/10 17:51:46)
Related animal: Dog
My friend Michael has recently fostered a dog named Arrow. What fostering for dogs is is when an individual temporarily adopts a pet. In this time, the clinic provides the food and other necessary essentials for the pet, while the guardian provides the home and care for the animal. The guardian takes care of the dog until the dog gets adopted by a permanent family. Although this prevents the dog from being inside a pound and stuck inside with minimal attention and exercise, I can't also help to think of the emotional ramifications of what this can do for the pet and the temporary guardian. I know how much Mike loves taking care of Arrow. Its as if this new sense of responsibility has changed his outlook of his priorities. But just as much as Mike cares for Arrow, I know the feelings are reciprocated on Arrow's behalf.
Where ever we go, Arrow always makes sure that Mike is around. It seems that Mike is the only one who can consistently drag Arrow's attention away from what else is going on in the world. And when outside, Arrow goes leashless as long as Mike is close by. I often worry when these two will eventually separate because I know that both will be hit emotionally.
But despite this slight default, this program has proven to be positive for the dog. For one thing, I have noticed that Arrow has a lot of odd quirks, that makes me believe that he had not a very good life before he and Mike got together. First of all, he became very scared of certain areas of campus. To get to those areas, it was like we had to take paths around just to get to a specific area. Secondly, while walking in IV, a homeless man, whom we have never encountered, called out Arrow by name. Arrow began to bark and back away as soon as this happened. We concluded that this homeless man must have been Arrow's previous owner, and that he did not take very good care of him. Despite this poor upbringing, Arrow has turned out to be such a good and friendly dog.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Art Related to Animal Rights
Art Related to Animal Rights Review
By Hector Medina (06/09/13 14:30:31)
Related animals: Goldfish, Rat
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
Steve Barker believes that artists who collaborate with animals to make art should not be judged. He thinks that there should be guidelines, like Malamud mentions, but art is to be inventive and free. Artist that criticizes artist working with animals should be seen as artists who have an approach more radical and open minded. He says that they should be seen as artists that employ “different tools for thinking [and have] the potential to offer a distinct way of framing or unframing issues.”
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
He thinks that some critiques make judgment too fast. They will express their ‘disapproval or skepticism, and on occasion [they] will simply refuse to engage with the work.” Artists that collaborate with animals should not be dismissed because of their unfamiliarity. They should look at the art first and then consider it not simply omit for failing their ethical guidelines.
3. What is some of Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
He is not comfortable with these methods of creating art. The piece with the burning rats was to symbolize Jones’s time in Vietnam, but there could be better ways of executing it. Helen piece lies on the audience not on the animal. It’s as if the animals were used to make art, different from collaborating with them.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/Why?
He is not defending the pieces as art, but he does acknowledge the purpose or message they are trying to portray. He does think they can both be executed in a different way where the animals were not a prop but a collaborator.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artist to work with/use animals?
I think he believes we can work with animals, I mean our class is and so far we haven’t heard anything about animal torture so the sake of art. He believes there is a right way to creating art with animals, so he does have some trust in artist.
6. Do you think artist have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
Artist, just like any other person should hold a sense of respect and boundaries when interacting with animals. To showcase something to simply stimulate someone’s emotions and feelings is not a good piece of art. There is some ethical responsibility to care for someone/thing’s life.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
I do agree to a certain extent. The animals used in science are to help us by providing helpful research and health benefits. Animals used in art have different purposed. They will not benefit us in any other way than visually. So I do think it’s somewhat ethical to use animals in science if their purpose is to help, yet are killed.
[Write Comment]
By Hector Medina (06/09/13 14:30:31)
Related animals: Goldfish, Rat
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
Steve Barker believes that artists who collaborate with animals to make art should not be judged. He thinks that there should be guidelines, like Malamud mentions, but art is to be inventive and free. Artist that criticizes artist working with animals should be seen as artists who have an approach more radical and open minded. He says that they should be seen as artists that employ “different tools for thinking [and have] the potential to offer a distinct way of framing or unframing issues.”
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
He thinks that some critiques make judgment too fast. They will express their ‘disapproval or skepticism, and on occasion [they] will simply refuse to engage with the work.” Artists that collaborate with animals should not be dismissed because of their unfamiliarity. They should look at the art first and then consider it not simply omit for failing their ethical guidelines.
3. What is some of Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
He is not comfortable with these methods of creating art. The piece with the burning rats was to symbolize Jones’s time in Vietnam, but there could be better ways of executing it. Helen piece lies on the audience not on the animal. It’s as if the animals were used to make art, different from collaborating with them.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/Why?
He is not defending the pieces as art, but he does acknowledge the purpose or message they are trying to portray. He does think they can both be executed in a different way where the animals were not a prop but a collaborator.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artist to work with/use animals?
I think he believes we can work with animals, I mean our class is and so far we haven’t heard anything about animal torture so the sake of art. He believes there is a right way to creating art with animals, so he does have some trust in artist.
6. Do you think artist have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
Artist, just like any other person should hold a sense of respect and boundaries when interacting with animals. To showcase something to simply stimulate someone’s emotions and feelings is not a good piece of art. There is some ethical responsibility to care for someone/thing’s life.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
I do agree to a certain extent. The animals used in science are to help us by providing helpful research and health benefits. Animals used in art have different purposed. They will not benefit us in any other way than visually. So I do think it’s somewhat ethical to use animals in science if their purpose is to help, yet are killed.
[Write Comment]
Artist Animal (Post-humanities)
By Raymond Douglas (06/09/13 17:15:15)
Related animals: Fish, Human, Rat
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
He thinks that each case needs to be considered separately. Without doing so, the true differences between collaborators and users will be confused.
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
Those things that may appear not very ethical at first could very well be something that requires a deeper discussion to understand. From the last answer, each case will remain different and will need its own steps to understanding.
3. What is some of Baker’s criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
In this case, he strongly thinks that the rat is being used as a tool. Typically, collaboration extends something positive to all parties involved, but here we lose one of the collaborators. Therefore, it was outright unethical.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/why?
Despite the unfortunate death of these animals they have brought up a larger discussion, which may eliminate such events from happening in the future. They bring a bad light to other artistic gestures that utilize animals in negative ways.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artists to work with/use animals?
For interspecies collaborations we must despite those few who exploit the lives of animals.
6. Do you think artists have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
I think all artists have ethical responsibilities to all external, living entities. Ethical responsibilities within their own body are a different discussion. Though, it is our duty as artists to respect and attempt to enrich the lives of all animals they work with. Artists are meant to collaborate, not exploit. And collaboration is meant to enrich, not destroy.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
Bryndis is concerned with art being just as important as science. Also, Bryndis believes that the two should be subject to the same standards and ethical rules. While I agree for the most part, I think they are two different fields. Art should have considerably more strict rules in place for the treatment of animals. Science should as well, but in cases where several animals may be sacrificed for the greater good of the species or another species (humans) then I think the slightly different treatment is persmissible.
Artist Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Raymond Douglas (06/09/13 17:15:15)
Related animals: Fish, Human, Rat
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
He thinks that each case needs to be considered separately. Without doing so, the true differences between collaborators and users will be confused.
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
Those things that may appear not very ethical at first could very well be something that requires a deeper discussion to understand. From the last answer, each case will remain different and will need its own steps to understanding.
3. What is some of Baker’s criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
In this case, he strongly thinks that the rat is being used as a tool. Typically, collaboration extends something positive to all parties involved, but here we lose one of the collaborators. Therefore, it was outright unethical.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/why?
Despite the unfortunate death of these animals they have brought up a larger discussion, which may eliminate such events from happening in the future. They bring a bad light to other artistic gestures that utilize animals in negative ways.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artists to work with/use animals?
For interspecies collaborations we must despite those few who exploit the lives of animals.
6. Do you think artists have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
I think all artists have ethical responsibilities to all external, living entities. Ethical responsibilities within their own body are a different discussion. Though, it is our duty as artists to respect and attempt to enrich the lives of all animals they work with. Artists are meant to collaborate, not exploit. And collaboration is meant to enrich, not destroy.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
Bryndis is concerned with art being just as important as science. Also, Bryndis believes that the two should be subject to the same standards and ethical rules. While I agree for the most part, I think they are two different fields. Art should have considerably more strict rules in place for the treatment of animals. Science should as well, but in cases where several animals may be sacrificed for the greater good of the species or another species (humans) then I think the slightly different treatment is persmissible.
Artist Animal: The Ethical Implications of Making Art with Animals
By Katie Edwards (05/16/13 16:20:10)
In Steve Baker's “Artist | Animal” excerpt, the issue of artists putting their aesthetic or creative endeavors before the humane treatment of animals is discussed through analysis of various artworks/performances and critic responses to such works. Baker attempts to discuss these works in a manner which does not belittle the artist or compromise the validity of their work while simultaneously expressing concern for the wellbeing of the animals involved. He claims one must “engage” with a work before entirely dismissing it, even if it initially appears cruel or unethical. Rather than assume that all artists are incapable of creating respectful art with animals, Baker suggests we should trust them until given reason to believe they are unworthy of such responsibility.
Baker cites Randy Malamud in his discussion of animal harm via art, stating Malamud refuses to look at the artwork itself and instead focus solely on the question of ethics. Like other critics, Malamud is skeptical of artists and does not trust them to treat animals humanely in their works. Baker encourages people to consider both the moral implications of the work as well as the pieces as serious artistic practices.
Kim Jones' Rat Piece and Marco Evaristii's Helena are examples of works which Baker attempts to explore in terms of the value of human and animal life. While he does not outright condemn Jones for burning three innocent rats and having inconsistent statements about why he would do such a thing in later interviews, Baker clearly does not encourage such practices. He recognizes that Jones intended for the piece to be metaphorical of his personal experiences in Vietnam, yet has difficulty defining whether or not it was too sensational to be artwork. Similarly in his analysis of Helena, Baker tries to understand the value of an animal life in the hands of a human audience. Evaristii claims he simply gave people the option of turning the blenders on and therefore killing the goldfish, but that he did not force them to do so. This issue of audience participation or intervention is intriguing to me—the way people act in a group setting or while watching an art performance is often different than they would act on their own or in a typical setting. However, Baker argues that both pieces lack an interest in nonhuman life, and that the works did not alleviate the conditions of the animals but rather use them as a way to convey strictly human death/emotion.
I think artists should have ethical responsibilities while working with animals, just as everyone should have a certain level of respect for animals in their every day lives. I do not think it is acceptable to endanger the life of an animal or treat it as a material for the sake of creating an art piece. I struggle to think of any aesthetic purpose that would be powerful enough or convince me to mistreat a nonhuman creature. Artists have an obligation to create things which will inspire others or serve some emotional purpose to them or their viewer, not to create sensational performances which draw audiences in to view horrific events disguised as “works of art”. I understand that artists should have a certain degree of freedom to express themselves, but I draw the line at abusing other species for such a purpose.
[Write Comment]
By Katie Edwards (05/16/13 16:20:10)
In Steve Baker's “Artist | Animal” excerpt, the issue of artists putting their aesthetic or creative endeavors before the humane treatment of animals is discussed through analysis of various artworks/performances and critic responses to such works. Baker attempts to discuss these works in a manner which does not belittle the artist or compromise the validity of their work while simultaneously expressing concern for the wellbeing of the animals involved. He claims one must “engage” with a work before entirely dismissing it, even if it initially appears cruel or unethical. Rather than assume that all artists are incapable of creating respectful art with animals, Baker suggests we should trust them until given reason to believe they are unworthy of such responsibility.
Baker cites Randy Malamud in his discussion of animal harm via art, stating Malamud refuses to look at the artwork itself and instead focus solely on the question of ethics. Like other critics, Malamud is skeptical of artists and does not trust them to treat animals humanely in their works. Baker encourages people to consider both the moral implications of the work as well as the pieces as serious artistic practices.
Kim Jones' Rat Piece and Marco Evaristii's Helena are examples of works which Baker attempts to explore in terms of the value of human and animal life. While he does not outright condemn Jones for burning three innocent rats and having inconsistent statements about why he would do such a thing in later interviews, Baker clearly does not encourage such practices. He recognizes that Jones intended for the piece to be metaphorical of his personal experiences in Vietnam, yet has difficulty defining whether or not it was too sensational to be artwork. Similarly in his analysis of Helena, Baker tries to understand the value of an animal life in the hands of a human audience. Evaristii claims he simply gave people the option of turning the blenders on and therefore killing the goldfish, but that he did not force them to do so. This issue of audience participation or intervention is intriguing to me—the way people act in a group setting or while watching an art performance is often different than they would act on their own or in a typical setting. However, Baker argues that both pieces lack an interest in nonhuman life, and that the works did not alleviate the conditions of the animals but rather use them as a way to convey strictly human death/emotion.
I think artists should have ethical responsibilities while working with animals, just as everyone should have a certain level of respect for animals in their every day lives. I do not think it is acceptable to endanger the life of an animal or treat it as a material for the sake of creating an art piece. I struggle to think of any aesthetic purpose that would be powerful enough or convince me to mistreat a nonhuman creature. Artists have an obligation to create things which will inspire others or serve some emotional purpose to them or their viewer, not to create sensational performances which draw audiences in to view horrific events disguised as “works of art”. I understand that artists should have a certain degree of freedom to express themselves, but I draw the line at abusing other species for such a purpose.
[Write Comment]
Artist/Animal Reading
By Natalie Croak (06/09/13 15:36:36)
Artist/Animal was an article about a couple of artist who have used animals in their artwork to push the boundaries of what is considered moral behavior. One piece that the article described was an artist burning three mice alive in a gallery to mimic the smell of dying rats that he encountered while in the Vietnam War. Another piece had three blenders filled with water and goldfish. Patrons had the ability to turn the blenders on to make fish paste. The artists argued that art is beyond the reach of moral criticism and that the only way to share an artist's experiences of something as horrible as the Vietnam War was to make this type of art. The goldfish art piece was a commentary on the power that we have over animals and animals in art can also be used to illustrate that many believe that animals are only useful as food, tools, or as a cultural mirror.
I thought that these artworks sounded pretty disturbing. It seemed to me that the artists did not care about the animals as individuals, they only saw them as materials for an art piece. Animal cruelty laws were created because lawmakers recognized that hurting animals is often a precursor for hurting other humans. As a result animal cruelty laws are more based on the desire to protect humans than animals. I believe that society should place value on all forms of life, which would result in art such as this being immoral.
[Write Comment]
By Natalie Croak (06/09/13 15:36:36)
Artist/Animal was an article about a couple of artist who have used animals in their artwork to push the boundaries of what is considered moral behavior. One piece that the article described was an artist burning three mice alive in a gallery to mimic the smell of dying rats that he encountered while in the Vietnam War. Another piece had three blenders filled with water and goldfish. Patrons had the ability to turn the blenders on to make fish paste. The artists argued that art is beyond the reach of moral criticism and that the only way to share an artist's experiences of something as horrible as the Vietnam War was to make this type of art. The goldfish art piece was a commentary on the power that we have over animals and animals in art can also be used to illustrate that many believe that animals are only useful as food, tools, or as a cultural mirror.
I thought that these artworks sounded pretty disturbing. It seemed to me that the artists did not care about the animals as individuals, they only saw them as materials for an art piece. Animal cruelty laws were created because lawmakers recognized that hurting animals is often a precursor for hurting other humans. As a result animal cruelty laws are more based on the desire to protect humans than animals. I believe that society should place value on all forms of life, which would result in art such as this being immoral.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Attempt to Communicate with a Butterfly
By Jessica Oropesa (04/22/10 05:55:06)
Related animal: Butterfly
Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the class when the animal communicator, Barbara Janell, spoke, but I did have an encounter with a non-human species over the weekend.
I went down to Pomona to visit some friends for the weekend and since I was in relatively unfamiliar territory, I made a conscious effort to observe any wildlife. The friend's house that I went to had neighbors that owned some unusual animals, including a huge bird that I could not identify. While standing outside, enjoying the sun with my partner, a butterfly fluttered in the backyard and landed in the grass. I was struck with surprise! I couldn't even remember the last time I saw a butterfly... So the first thing that popped into my head was, "Collaborate!" I remembered the passage of a past student in which follow the leader was played by the student and a butterfly. So I took on an approach similar to what I had remembered. Although I missed Barbara Janell's talk, I can still share my experiences with this butterfly.
After I saw it land in the grass, I got excited and decided to approach it. I believe it might have been a monarch butterfly due to its orange wings with black and white markings. I slowly stepped toward it, taking one step at a time. I wanted to see how close I could get. I was very respectful of its space, trying to get close, but not too close. While I was walking toward it, my partner was behind me on the sidewalk watching me. I think I was talking with him about collaborating with the butterfly and then he motioned to kick or step on it... It got startled and flew away. And that was the last that I saw of it and for a while, I was pretty upset that I didn't get to collaborate with it. But by that time, the opportunity was long gone. Maybe I'll come across another butterfly to collaborate with in the near future.
[Write Comment]
By Jessica Oropesa (04/22/10 05:55:06)
Related animal: Butterfly
Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the class when the animal communicator, Barbara Janell, spoke, but I did have an encounter with a non-human species over the weekend.
I went down to Pomona to visit some friends for the weekend and since I was in relatively unfamiliar territory, I made a conscious effort to observe any wildlife. The friend's house that I went to had neighbors that owned some unusual animals, including a huge bird that I could not identify. While standing outside, enjoying the sun with my partner, a butterfly fluttered in the backyard and landed in the grass. I was struck with surprise! I couldn't even remember the last time I saw a butterfly... So the first thing that popped into my head was, "Collaborate!" I remembered the passage of a past student in which follow the leader was played by the student and a butterfly. So I took on an approach similar to what I had remembered. Although I missed Barbara Janell's talk, I can still share my experiences with this butterfly.
After I saw it land in the grass, I got excited and decided to approach it. I believe it might have been a monarch butterfly due to its orange wings with black and white markings. I slowly stepped toward it, taking one step at a time. I wanted to see how close I could get. I was very respectful of its space, trying to get close, but not too close. While I was walking toward it, my partner was behind me on the sidewalk watching me. I think I was talking with him about collaborating with the butterfly and then he motioned to kick or step on it... It got startled and flew away. And that was the last that I saw of it and for a while, I was pretty upset that I didn't get to collaborate with it. But by that time, the opportunity was long gone. Maybe I'll come across another butterfly to collaborate with in the near future.
[Write Comment]
Ayla
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:34:11)
Related animal: Dog
Interspecies Collaboration Week 5
Ayla always ran around jumping on people and eating anything she could get her teeth on. She constantly seemed happy and filled with so much life. It was impossible to spend more than five minutes with her without smiling. The only negative critique I have about her is that she would always sit on me thinking she was much smaller than she really was which hurt sometimes. Even that didn’t bother me all that much though. I enjoyed every minute of every crammed car ride that I spent with her. Unfortunately, a few weeks ago while my mom was out of town on a business trip, the neighbors were watching her. Walking down the street at night with the neighbors, Ayla found something intriguing and forgetting to look both ways she sprinted across the street. A half a second later Ayla was gone. Hit by a truck gunning down the street all you could hear was silence. Ayla was my beautiful four-year old Bernese mountain dog whom I miss every day. She was my friend and we shared many great moments together. My fondest memory of her is when we went to the beach in Santa Monica over Thanksgiving weekend. I skated down to the beach with her (No need to hold her leash because she always held her own in her mouth and never left my side.) When we arrived at the beach I told her to go and she sprinted across the sand and leaped into the water. I stood on the shore watching her play in the waves. All of a sudden she stopped and walked out of the water onto the wet sand just clear of the shoreline. She sat looking at me further up the beach. She started snapping her mouth at me as if she was trying to talk. My mom and brother had taught her to do this when she was a puppy and now everyone thinks she’s trying to talk whenever she does it. I then run after her and she runs away from me wanting to start a game of tag. She jumps in the water wanting me to follow so I do. While swimming in the water Ayla begins to get tired with her wet fur weighing her down and so she starts to go under. She swims over to me and puts her front paws over my shoulders almost like a piggyback ride. I carry her out of the water and back onto the sand where she can finally catch her breath. Then I sat on the sand attempting to catch mine. All of a sudden I feel a big ball of wet fur land on my lap. Ayla jumped on me and curled up in a ball. I tried to move her but she didn’t want to at all. She laid there without moving for almost an hour. It was nearly dark and freezing out by then but that didn’t matter to either of us. I knew I couldn’t talk to her like I could to my human friends, but we had a connection to where that didn’t even matter. For that hour on the beach was all I needed to know how much she cared for me as well and that I was her best friend. Ayla was the greatest dog and friend that filled four years of my life with the utmost joy.
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:34:11)
Related animal: Dog
Interspecies Collaboration Week 5
Ayla always ran around jumping on people and eating anything she could get her teeth on. She constantly seemed happy and filled with so much life. It was impossible to spend more than five minutes with her without smiling. The only negative critique I have about her is that she would always sit on me thinking she was much smaller than she really was which hurt sometimes. Even that didn’t bother me all that much though. I enjoyed every minute of every crammed car ride that I spent with her. Unfortunately, a few weeks ago while my mom was out of town on a business trip, the neighbors were watching her. Walking down the street at night with the neighbors, Ayla found something intriguing and forgetting to look both ways she sprinted across the street. A half a second later Ayla was gone. Hit by a truck gunning down the street all you could hear was silence. Ayla was my beautiful four-year old Bernese mountain dog whom I miss every day. She was my friend and we shared many great moments together. My fondest memory of her is when we went to the beach in Santa Monica over Thanksgiving weekend. I skated down to the beach with her (No need to hold her leash because she always held her own in her mouth and never left my side.) When we arrived at the beach I told her to go and she sprinted across the sand and leaped into the water. I stood on the shore watching her play in the waves. All of a sudden she stopped and walked out of the water onto the wet sand just clear of the shoreline. She sat looking at me further up the beach. She started snapping her mouth at me as if she was trying to talk. My mom and brother had taught her to do this when she was a puppy and now everyone thinks she’s trying to talk whenever she does it. I then run after her and she runs away from me wanting to start a game of tag. She jumps in the water wanting me to follow so I do. While swimming in the water Ayla begins to get tired with her wet fur weighing her down and so she starts to go under. She swims over to me and puts her front paws over my shoulders almost like a piggyback ride. I carry her out of the water and back onto the sand where she can finally catch her breath. Then I sat on the sand attempting to catch mine. All of a sudden I feel a big ball of wet fur land on my lap. Ayla jumped on me and curled up in a ball. I tried to move her but she didn’t want to at all. She laid there without moving for almost an hour. It was nearly dark and freezing out by then but that didn’t matter to either of us. I knew I couldn’t talk to her like I could to my human friends, but we had a connection to where that didn’t even matter. For that hour on the beach was all I needed to know how much she cared for me as well and that I was her best friend. Ayla was the greatest dog and friend that filled four years of my life with the utmost joy.
|
Reflection: Animal Communication
Baby Boa!
By Rachel Visalda (04/22/10 10:54:30)
Related animal: Snake
About a week ago, our house welcomed a new snake- a beautiful red-tail baby boa. The event is bittersweet, since we lost our last snake, Dakota, and have yet to find her. However, I'm excited to work with the boa; it's interesting to notice how he's adapting to his new environment and to observe how he reacts to people.
Since his arrival, I've been spending time with him and thinking of ways in which we can collaborate. His interactions with humans have been limited, and he hasn't had regular contact with the same people. I hope he opens up to me, and I'm patiently waiting for him to feel comfortable with us in our home.
[Write Comment]
By Rachel Visalda (04/22/10 10:54:30)
Related animal: Snake
About a week ago, our house welcomed a new snake- a beautiful red-tail baby boa. The event is bittersweet, since we lost our last snake, Dakota, and have yet to find her. However, I'm excited to work with the boa; it's interesting to notice how he's adapting to his new environment and to observe how he reacts to people.
Since his arrival, I've been spending time with him and thinking of ways in which we can collaborate. His interactions with humans have been limited, and he hasn't had regular contact with the same people. I hope he opens up to me, and I'm patiently waiting for him to feel comfortable with us in our home.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Related to Animal Rights
Baker and Kusot/Moore readings
By Kyle Leighton (05/19/14 00:21:23)
Baker believes that Malamud's critical view on ethics regarding artists is unnecessary, and explains how although scholars such as Pluto have stated the artists lack ethics, he still feels as though artists should be left to incorporate animals with trust that they will use "integrity" in their ethical behavior and actions with the animals.
Baker states that looking at the ethics of the art before immersing one's attention in the art itself will disable viewers to take the art seriously, possibly disallowing potential "contributions to understanding human-animal relations".
Baker is critical of the Rat Piece in the sense that it called upon questions of value in an area where these questions had already been answered, however, Baker also falls back to claiming how scientists refered to the artist as 'perverted', and that this in a sense disallowed people to see what Jones was really trying to convey.
Baker is defending the Rat Piece in a way, because his philosophy of viewing the art before judging the artists ethics takes roll in this art piece. He believes that Jones has a message about the nonintervening audience and humanity that cannot be understood with the criticism of animal ethics.
Baker thinks that we can trust artists with ethical responsibilities, partly because we have to, because artists contribute ideas to society that can only be heard by the audience trusting the artist.
I agree with baker that we must trust the ethics of the artist, however, I do believe that lines must be drawn and that animal cruelty shouldn't have a place in the world of art.
The Bee text brings up interesting issues regarding the science behind the importance of bees, and how this has caused society to understand the cultural importance of their existence. The text explains how present day artists who use live bees in their art are exploring a species and idea that humans depend on, as well as the entire ecosystem.
Artist Animal (Book)
Bees Making Art: Insect Aesthetics and the Ecological Moment (Article) [Write Comment]
By Kyle Leighton (05/19/14 00:21:23)
Baker believes that Malamud's critical view on ethics regarding artists is unnecessary, and explains how although scholars such as Pluto have stated the artists lack ethics, he still feels as though artists should be left to incorporate animals with trust that they will use "integrity" in their ethical behavior and actions with the animals.
Baker states that looking at the ethics of the art before immersing one's attention in the art itself will disable viewers to take the art seriously, possibly disallowing potential "contributions to understanding human-animal relations".
Baker is critical of the Rat Piece in the sense that it called upon questions of value in an area where these questions had already been answered, however, Baker also falls back to claiming how scientists refered to the artist as 'perverted', and that this in a sense disallowed people to see what Jones was really trying to convey.
Baker is defending the Rat Piece in a way, because his philosophy of viewing the art before judging the artists ethics takes roll in this art piece. He believes that Jones has a message about the nonintervening audience and humanity that cannot be understood with the criticism of animal ethics.
Baker thinks that we can trust artists with ethical responsibilities, partly because we have to, because artists contribute ideas to society that can only be heard by the audience trusting the artist.
I agree with baker that we must trust the ethics of the artist, however, I do believe that lines must be drawn and that animal cruelty shouldn't have a place in the world of art.
The Bee text brings up interesting issues regarding the science behind the importance of bees, and how this has caused society to understand the cultural importance of their existence. The text explains how present day artists who use live bees in their art are exploring a species and idea that humans depend on, as well as the entire ecosystem.
Other: Interspecies Relationships
Baker Discussion 4/20
By Serena Zahler Andrea Chase (04/21/10 17:26:39)
1. Why might postmodern artists have a “fear of pets”?
Pets are a man-made construct in the sense that man has forcibly changed the natural characteristic and behavior of an animal for it to be called a pet. This means that pets are creatures of their owners way of life and do not act out of their own volition or instinct. Such appropriation of character strikes fear into artists who “despise in the expectations of an unimaginative psychoanalysis [of family loyalty and obedience].”
2. Why might post-modernity favor wild animals?
Post modernity has certain characteristics that strongly correlate positivism with freedom. An obedient animal, forged into a different lifestyle choice and stripped from right to behave instinctually, represents the opposite of freedom of choice and behavior. Therefore postmodern artists have chosen to “lash out at domesticity and propriety as safe and mediocre.” Wild animals represent the unrestrained, the unbridled, the creative, as well as the independent- a much more suitable and romantic cause to support for artists striving to behave the same way.
3. What are some of the inconsistencies in the foundation of post-moderisms “fear of the familiar”?
Artists have been striving to break from familiarity for centuries. Yet art as a means of expressing that which is supposed to be unbridled has, in doing so, domesticated that which was free. By putting work in a gallery, artists play into the so-called “domestication” of their own pieces that were originally meant to break free of any societal standards.
4. What are some similarities between postmodern artists/writers and animal advocacy?
Both kinds of people hope to ultimately expand natural capacity for humans to express compassion for animals. There is also an agreement that humans need to be empathetic to animals living in a “human” world. By putting themselves in a state that has proper ethical behavior toward nonhumans, humans can embrace a kind of “joyfulness [through] an embracing of possibility.” They would both also believe that to stifle the freedom of an animal is unfair, therefore “wild would be the epitome of healthy creativity.” Needless to say any type of abuse, neglect, suffering, or affliction would be entirely uncalled for and immoral.
5. How might sexism play a role in fear of the familiar and the sentimental?
In fearing the familiar such as pets, humans polarize the subject in order to distance themselves from what they fear. Thus, like in sexism man and woman are polarized to the detriment of women. Humans and animals are opposed (to the disadvantage of the animal) because they are of lower status.
6. What does love have to do with knowledge?
An example of love and knowledge is explained on page 184 in which it is theorized that those living in the rural countryside have a more authentically direct relationship with animals, while those living in urban environments only have animal experiences as pets. “Knowledge of pets, in this view, is seen as a lesser, inferior knowledge to that of farm or wild animals.” Love that is associated with pet animals clouds the human’s knowledge of animals, but those who have experience with working animals and/or wild animals due to their geographic location have a healthier knowledge not based in emotion.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler Andrea Chase (04/21/10 17:26:39)
1. Why might postmodern artists have a “fear of pets”?
Pets are a man-made construct in the sense that man has forcibly changed the natural characteristic and behavior of an animal for it to be called a pet. This means that pets are creatures of their owners way of life and do not act out of their own volition or instinct. Such appropriation of character strikes fear into artists who “despise in the expectations of an unimaginative psychoanalysis [of family loyalty and obedience].”
2. Why might post-modernity favor wild animals?
Post modernity has certain characteristics that strongly correlate positivism with freedom. An obedient animal, forged into a different lifestyle choice and stripped from right to behave instinctually, represents the opposite of freedom of choice and behavior. Therefore postmodern artists have chosen to “lash out at domesticity and propriety as safe and mediocre.” Wild animals represent the unrestrained, the unbridled, the creative, as well as the independent- a much more suitable and romantic cause to support for artists striving to behave the same way.
3. What are some of the inconsistencies in the foundation of post-moderisms “fear of the familiar”?
Artists have been striving to break from familiarity for centuries. Yet art as a means of expressing that which is supposed to be unbridled has, in doing so, domesticated that which was free. By putting work in a gallery, artists play into the so-called “domestication” of their own pieces that were originally meant to break free of any societal standards.
4. What are some similarities between postmodern artists/writers and animal advocacy?
Both kinds of people hope to ultimately expand natural capacity for humans to express compassion for animals. There is also an agreement that humans need to be empathetic to animals living in a “human” world. By putting themselves in a state that has proper ethical behavior toward nonhumans, humans can embrace a kind of “joyfulness [through] an embracing of possibility.” They would both also believe that to stifle the freedom of an animal is unfair, therefore “wild would be the epitome of healthy creativity.” Needless to say any type of abuse, neglect, suffering, or affliction would be entirely uncalled for and immoral.
5. How might sexism play a role in fear of the familiar and the sentimental?
In fearing the familiar such as pets, humans polarize the subject in order to distance themselves from what they fear. Thus, like in sexism man and woman are polarized to the detriment of women. Humans and animals are opposed (to the disadvantage of the animal) because they are of lower status.
6. What does love have to do with knowledge?
An example of love and knowledge is explained on page 184 in which it is theorized that those living in the rural countryside have a more authentically direct relationship with animals, while those living in urban environments only have animal experiences as pets. “Knowledge of pets, in this view, is seen as a lesser, inferior knowledge to that of farm or wild animals.” Love that is associated with pet animals clouds the human’s knowledge of animals, but those who have experience with working animals and/or wild animals due to their geographic location have a healthier knowledge not based in emotion.
Other: Art Related to Animal Rights
Baker response
By Marissa Gravett (05/07/13 19:45:06)
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
Baker believes that all pieces involving animals should not be criticized in one category. They should instead be looked at and criticized as individual pieces. There are different extremes to art dealing with animals and some may be more non-ethical than others.
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
In the case of Rat Piece, the artist had an underlying meaning of dealing with the issues of US soldier deaths. Unfortunately, the actual performance is such a shocking sight to see, that most of the audience would focus only on the non-ethical issue of the piece and would totally overlook the actual meaning of the piece. Baker argues that the audience needs to understand that the artist had a deeper meaning than just burning rats for pleasure. The audience’s first reaction is disgust and they fail to see the artist’s true intentions.
3. What is some of Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
Baker believes that Rat Piece is a very alarming piece. It evokes reactions out of people that other art pieces do not. Even so, he still considers both of these pieces to be art simply because the artists believes that they are art.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/Why?
Yes, he is defending these pieces because he says that people are too quick to judge the ethics, but he sees the pieces for their true meanings and for the power that they have on the audience.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artist to work with/use animals?
Yes, we have to be able to trust them. Most artists obey the unspoken respect for animals. There are only a few that do not. If we did not trust them, we would not be able to open our minds to the ideas that they are trying to convey by using animals.
6. Do you think artist have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
I believe that artists should have ethical responsibilities. I understand that the point of art is to make people feel something, but I also think that there are ways to convey these powerful ideas in a way that doesn’t involve brutally torturing animals. I believe that artists need to have respect for their audience and respect for their materials (the animals). People are more drawn to art when it follows morals. It would be very difficult to put these responsibilities on artists who tend to break the rules to make their art unique.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
This is a very difficult question for me to answer. As a meat eater, and a believer of using animals in scientific research, I still believe that harming animals for art is not necessary. Where as animal research and animals as food benefit us in a way that advances our scientific world and nourishes our body, killing animals in art is not the same. Although it does expand the mind of the individual as they reflect on the piece, it is not necessarily a positive benefit to society. I believe that the uses for animals that she speaks of should not be held on the same level of ethics.
Artist Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Marissa Gravett (05/07/13 19:45:06)
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
Baker believes that all pieces involving animals should not be criticized in one category. They should instead be looked at and criticized as individual pieces. There are different extremes to art dealing with animals and some may be more non-ethical than others.
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
In the case of Rat Piece, the artist had an underlying meaning of dealing with the issues of US soldier deaths. Unfortunately, the actual performance is such a shocking sight to see, that most of the audience would focus only on the non-ethical issue of the piece and would totally overlook the actual meaning of the piece. Baker argues that the audience needs to understand that the artist had a deeper meaning than just burning rats for pleasure. The audience’s first reaction is disgust and they fail to see the artist’s true intentions.
3. What is some of Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
Baker believes that Rat Piece is a very alarming piece. It evokes reactions out of people that other art pieces do not. Even so, he still considers both of these pieces to be art simply because the artists believes that they are art.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/Why?
Yes, he is defending these pieces because he says that people are too quick to judge the ethics, but he sees the pieces for their true meanings and for the power that they have on the audience.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artist to work with/use animals?
Yes, we have to be able to trust them. Most artists obey the unspoken respect for animals. There are only a few that do not. If we did not trust them, we would not be able to open our minds to the ideas that they are trying to convey by using animals.
6. Do you think artist have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
I believe that artists should have ethical responsibilities. I understand that the point of art is to make people feel something, but I also think that there are ways to convey these powerful ideas in a way that doesn’t involve brutally torturing animals. I believe that artists need to have respect for their audience and respect for their materials (the animals). People are more drawn to art when it follows morals. It would be very difficult to put these responsibilities on artists who tend to break the rules to make their art unique.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
This is a very difficult question for me to answer. As a meat eater, and a believer of using animals in scientific research, I still believe that harming animals for art is not necessary. Where as animal research and animals as food benefit us in a way that advances our scientific world and nourishes our body, killing animals in art is not the same. Although it does expand the mind of the individual as they reflect on the piece, it is not necessarily a positive benefit to society. I believe that the uses for animals that she speaks of should not be held on the same level of ethics.
Other: Other Related Research
Ball Python
By Chelsea Hunter (05/13/09 17:39:57)
Related animal: Ball Python
Adults generally do not grow to more than 90-120 cm (3-4 feet) in length,[2] although some specimens have reached 152 cm and even 182 cm (5-6 feet), but this is very rare. [4] Females tend to be slightly bigger than males maturing at an average of 4-4.5 feet. Males usually average around 3-3.5 feet. [5]The build is stocky[2] while the head is relatively small. The scales are smooth[4] and both sexes have anal spurs on either side of the vent, although males have larger spurs.[6]
The color pattern is typically black with light brown or gold sides and dorsal blotches. The belly is a white or cream that may or may not include scattered black markings.[4] However, those in the pet industries have, through selective breeding, developed many morphs: genetic mutations with altered colors and patterns.[7]
[edit] Common names
Royal python, ball python.[2]
The name ball python refers to the animal's tendency to curl into a ball when stressed or frightened.[8] The name royal python (from the Latin "regius") is based in part on the story that Cleopatra supposedly wore the snake around her wrist.
[edit] Geographic range
Found in Africa from Senegal, Mali, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin, Niger and Nigeria through Cameroon, Chad and the Central African Republic to Sudan and Uganda. No type locality was given in the original description.[1]
[edit] Habitat
Prefers grasslands, savannahs and sparsely wooded areas.[2]
[edit] Behavior
This terrestrial species is known for its defense strategy that involves coiling into a tight ball when threatened, with its head and neck tucked away in the middle. In this state, it can literally be rolled around. Favored retreats include mammal burrows and other underground hiding places where they also aestivate.[2]
[edit] Feeding
In the wild, the diet consists mostly of small mammals, such as African soft-furred rats, shrews and striped mice. Younger individuals have also been known to feed on birds. Captives usually do well on domestic rats and mice, either live, pre-killed, or frozen-thawed.[4] The size of the prey item should be equivalent to or slightly larger than the width of the largest part of their body. This python is known for being a picky eater and may not eat for months, particularly during the winter breeding season. While this is not odd, care should be taken to watch that the snake does not experience significant weight loss. [9]
[edit] Reproduction
Oviparous, with anywhere from 3-11 rather large eggs being laid (4-6 being most common).[4] These are incubated by the female underground and hatch after 90 days.[2] Sexual maturity is reached at 12-18 months for males, 24-36 months for females. Age is only one factor in determining sexual maturity and ability to breed -- weight is the second factor. Males should be no less than 900g (2.0 lbs.) to breed, and females should be no less than 1500 g (3.3 lbs.).[4]
[edit] Captivity
Due to their smaller size compared to other pythons and commonly docile temperament, these snakes are bred in captivity and have become popular as pets.[10] Juveniles tend to be more aggressive at first, but typically calm down as they get used to human contact. Wild-caught specimens have greater difficulty adapting to a captive environment, which can result in refusal to feed and parasitic infection. Specimens have survived for over 40 years in captivity.[11]
[Write Comment]
By Chelsea Hunter (05/13/09 17:39:57)
Related animal: Ball Python
Adults generally do not grow to more than 90-120 cm (3-4 feet) in length,[2] although some specimens have reached 152 cm and even 182 cm (5-6 feet), but this is very rare. [4] Females tend to be slightly bigger than males maturing at an average of 4-4.5 feet. Males usually average around 3-3.5 feet. [5]The build is stocky[2] while the head is relatively small. The scales are smooth[4] and both sexes have anal spurs on either side of the vent, although males have larger spurs.[6]
The color pattern is typically black with light brown or gold sides and dorsal blotches. The belly is a white or cream that may or may not include scattered black markings.[4] However, those in the pet industries have, through selective breeding, developed many morphs: genetic mutations with altered colors and patterns.[7]
[edit] Common names
Royal python, ball python.[2]
The name ball python refers to the animal's tendency to curl into a ball when stressed or frightened.[8] The name royal python (from the Latin "regius") is based in part on the story that Cleopatra supposedly wore the snake around her wrist.
[edit] Geographic range
Found in Africa from Senegal, Mali, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin, Niger and Nigeria through Cameroon, Chad and the Central African Republic to Sudan and Uganda. No type locality was given in the original description.[1]
[edit] Habitat
Prefers grasslands, savannahs and sparsely wooded areas.[2]
[edit] Behavior
This terrestrial species is known for its defense strategy that involves coiling into a tight ball when threatened, with its head and neck tucked away in the middle. In this state, it can literally be rolled around. Favored retreats include mammal burrows and other underground hiding places where they also aestivate.[2]
[edit] Feeding
In the wild, the diet consists mostly of small mammals, such as African soft-furred rats, shrews and striped mice. Younger individuals have also been known to feed on birds. Captives usually do well on domestic rats and mice, either live, pre-killed, or frozen-thawed.[4] The size of the prey item should be equivalent to or slightly larger than the width of the largest part of their body. This python is known for being a picky eater and may not eat for months, particularly during the winter breeding season. While this is not odd, care should be taken to watch that the snake does not experience significant weight loss. [9]
[edit] Reproduction
Oviparous, with anywhere from 3-11 rather large eggs being laid (4-6 being most common).[4] These are incubated by the female underground and hatch after 90 days.[2] Sexual maturity is reached at 12-18 months for males, 24-36 months for females. Age is only one factor in determining sexual maturity and ability to breed -- weight is the second factor. Males should be no less than 900g (2.0 lbs.) to breed, and females should be no less than 1500 g (3.3 lbs.).[4]
[edit] Captivity
Due to their smaller size compared to other pythons and commonly docile temperament, these snakes are bred in captivity and have become popular as pets.[10] Juveniles tend to be more aggressive at first, but typically calm down as they get used to human contact. Wild-caught specimens have greater difficulty adapting to a captive environment, which can result in refusal to feed and parasitic infection. Specimens have survived for over 40 years in captivity.[11]
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Barbara Janell
By Mark Linggi (04/21/10 23:55:40)
Ok. I'll admit it. When I first heard that we would be telepathically talking to animals and trees, I was just a bit skeptical. I wasn't going to dismiss the concept completely, but I was a bit worried. I showed up to class worried, but with an open mind as well. In the end, for me, the exercises made complete sense and was a success.
Since our class on Thursday, I have yet to try any of the techniques, so I suppose I will talk about my initial reactions to what happened.
Barbara Janell made perfect sense. I feel as if I have encountered many of the different things that she talked about too. The breathing exercises were calming and created a different aura around the room that somehow changed the entire atmosphere. I understood what she meant by an animal's presence within a room, and how it changes based on their character and if they are present or not. Even the exercise of sensing problems with someone, animal or human, sparked my memory. In my sophomore year of high school, I had an appendicitis. Like most, it happened suddenly and without warning. A couple months later, a very close family friend was told about this. She said that on that particular day, for some reason, she thought of me and had hopped that I was doing ok. I realized that what Barbara Janell was doing, sensing animals, was no different then sensing people.
I m a bit perplexed about the tree exercise however. At first, I felt as if there was nothing there. I was just standing with a tree against my back and the cool shade pouring over me like it had done a thousand times. I wasn't sure what was going on, but at first, I don't think I felt anything. But for some reason, I keep thinking back to that exercise and wondering if I felt anything. The low branches of that tree seemed to fit my back so comfortably. Maybe because I am still wondering if I felt something, makes me hopeful that something was still there.
I am glad my initial reaction of skepticism was rejected. I enjoyed the exercise and I hope that it works with animals that I encounter in the future.
[Write Comment]
By Mark Linggi (04/21/10 23:55:40)
Ok. I'll admit it. When I first heard that we would be telepathically talking to animals and trees, I was just a bit skeptical. I wasn't going to dismiss the concept completely, but I was a bit worried. I showed up to class worried, but with an open mind as well. In the end, for me, the exercises made complete sense and was a success.
Since our class on Thursday, I have yet to try any of the techniques, so I suppose I will talk about my initial reactions to what happened.
Barbara Janell made perfect sense. I feel as if I have encountered many of the different things that she talked about too. The breathing exercises were calming and created a different aura around the room that somehow changed the entire atmosphere. I understood what she meant by an animal's presence within a room, and how it changes based on their character and if they are present or not. Even the exercise of sensing problems with someone, animal or human, sparked my memory. In my sophomore year of high school, I had an appendicitis. Like most, it happened suddenly and without warning. A couple months later, a very close family friend was told about this. She said that on that particular day, for some reason, she thought of me and had hopped that I was doing ok. I realized that what Barbara Janell was doing, sensing animals, was no different then sensing people.
I m a bit perplexed about the tree exercise however. At first, I felt as if there was nothing there. I was just standing with a tree against my back and the cool shade pouring over me like it had done a thousand times. I wasn't sure what was going on, but at first, I don't think I felt anything. But for some reason, I keep thinking back to that exercise and wondering if I felt anything. The low branches of that tree seemed to fit my back so comfortably. Maybe because I am still wondering if I felt something, makes me hopeful that something was still there.
I am glad my initial reaction of skepticism was rejected. I enjoyed the exercise and I hope that it works with animals that I encounter in the future.
[Write Comment]
Barbara Janell Workshop
By Royce Chun (04/22/10 17:47:35)
Related animal: Dog
I attempted to use the tips provided by Barbara Janell towards creating a better relationship with my neighbor's dog. I've never attempted to be close with him in the first place but he always barks when I come close. Although, I suppose he barks at just about everyone. I wasn't direct with the dog and just eased in by conversing with my neighbors close to where the dog was. As the dog got sed to my presence, it eventually stopped barking. I was about to pet and even play with the dog without it going wild. Later, I sat at a distance using meditative practices in putting myself in the dog's position and tried communicating with it that way. Unfortunately nothing came out of it and the dog just proceeded to watch and bark at the pedestrians that walked by. Although I can't say I felt any connection to the dog, and even though he still barks when I walk by, at least I know that he doesn't actually dislike me.... he probably just likes barking at people.
[Write Comment]
By Royce Chun (04/22/10 17:47:35)
Related animal: Dog
I attempted to use the tips provided by Barbara Janell towards creating a better relationship with my neighbor's dog. I've never attempted to be close with him in the first place but he always barks when I come close. Although, I suppose he barks at just about everyone. I wasn't direct with the dog and just eased in by conversing with my neighbors close to where the dog was. As the dog got sed to my presence, it eventually stopped barking. I was about to pet and even play with the dog without it going wild. Later, I sat at a distance using meditative practices in putting myself in the dog's position and tried communicating with it that way. Unfortunately nothing came out of it and the dog just proceeded to watch and bark at the pedestrians that walked by. Although I can't say I felt any connection to the dog, and even though he still barks when I walk by, at least I know that he doesn't actually dislike me.... he probably just likes barking at people.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Barbara Janell Workshop
By Matthew Roy Reeves Danielle Terhune (04/25/10 20:25:02)
Related animal: Hermit Crab
Barbara Janell became a necessary encounter between my Hermit Crab Hermes and I. As the workshop progressed, I noticed a strong subhuman connection forming within the classroom, from a present source. What did Janell have in store?
Barbara Janell is an animal communicator, granted an M.A. in the field, and knew characteristics of the animals present, and distant, that their owners did not. The certification signified a serious capability.
After we came inside from sitting with trees, I picked up Hermes and let him crawl along my arm. He meandered, with no visual direction, from my wrist to my elbow. Janell observed him, and concluded that he loved music, and that I should get him another hermit crab for company. Fascinating.
The class ended, and I stayed behind packing up Hermes. Janell asked me if I knew why Hermes chose the path on my arm that he followed. "He was sensing changes in body temperature." She let me feel the temperature change from her wrist to her forearm, and I realized what Hermes was thinking as he progressed along mine earlier that afternoon.
The human mind progresses with intuitive moves across the folds of the brain, and generates thoughts. Hermes progressed with intuitive moves across the folds of my arm, and generated movement. "You may have thought it was your decision to bring Hermes in today, but he decided it for you," Janell said, smiling, emitting the strongest subhuman connective force I have ever encountered. Her presence with Hermes and I brought me to understand my own pet.
[Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves Danielle Terhune (04/25/10 20:25:02)
Related animal: Hermit Crab
Barbara Janell became a necessary encounter between my Hermit Crab Hermes and I. As the workshop progressed, I noticed a strong subhuman connection forming within the classroom, from a present source. What did Janell have in store?
Barbara Janell is an animal communicator, granted an M.A. in the field, and knew characteristics of the animals present, and distant, that their owners did not. The certification signified a serious capability.
After we came inside from sitting with trees, I picked up Hermes and let him crawl along my arm. He meandered, with no visual direction, from my wrist to my elbow. Janell observed him, and concluded that he loved music, and that I should get him another hermit crab for company. Fascinating.
The class ended, and I stayed behind packing up Hermes. Janell asked me if I knew why Hermes chose the path on my arm that he followed. "He was sensing changes in body temperature." She let me feel the temperature change from her wrist to her forearm, and I realized what Hermes was thinking as he progressed along mine earlier that afternoon.
The human mind progresses with intuitive moves across the folds of the brain, and generates thoughts. Hermes progressed with intuitive moves across the folds of my arm, and generated movement. "You may have thought it was your decision to bring Hermes in today, but he decided it for you," Janell said, smiling, emitting the strongest subhuman connective force I have ever encountered. Her presence with Hermes and I brought me to understand my own pet.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Barbara Janelle
By Sean Turner (06/14/10 11:44:30)
Our class meeting with Barbara Janelle was one of the most encouraging and enlightening class experiences I have ever had. Her relaxed yet strong presence in the room was very apparent from the moment I walked in. Her calm speech and general demeanor made me a little nervous and fidgety in the beginning to be honest, and I felt that there were some awkward silences at first. However, pretty soon I found myself to feel extremely tranquil and more receptive to the messages that she and the other animals in the room were giving me. It was obvious to me that Barbara was communicating with me and altering my feelings without even actually speaking directly to me. I felt that the most effective exercise was the one where she had us approach one another. I never realized how much one's body language can have on another individual, and how instantly it takes effect.
The tree exercise was also a new experience for me. I have always loved to play and climb and have spent many many hours in trees. However, I had never actually attempted to communicate with them. The tree that I chose was a huge old one that overlooks the lagoon. I became extremely relaxed when I had my back to it for a couple minutes, so relaxed that I forgot to follow the specific instructions, like the question asking, that were given to us before we left the room. I felt like it was actually another being that I was spending time with. I wondered if the tree was enjoying this experience as much as I was. I also wondered if the tree appreciated this interaction as much. Perhaps it was a very moving experience for the tree as well because it is definitely not used to people touching it or being so close to it for such an extended period of time. Now, every time I pass that tree near the art building I acknowledge its presence and I often even spend a couple minutes relaxing with it.
Our class meeting with Barbara Janelle opened my eyes to many ways of nonverbal communication. She taught me to drop my preconceived notions about other life forms, and that we are all constantly exchanging energy and information. She also encouraged me to be a more calm person, and much more receptive to other species' countless ways of communication.
[Write Comment]
By Sean Turner (06/14/10 11:44:30)
Our class meeting with Barbara Janelle was one of the most encouraging and enlightening class experiences I have ever had. Her relaxed yet strong presence in the room was very apparent from the moment I walked in. Her calm speech and general demeanor made me a little nervous and fidgety in the beginning to be honest, and I felt that there were some awkward silences at first. However, pretty soon I found myself to feel extremely tranquil and more receptive to the messages that she and the other animals in the room were giving me. It was obvious to me that Barbara was communicating with me and altering my feelings without even actually speaking directly to me. I felt that the most effective exercise was the one where she had us approach one another. I never realized how much one's body language can have on another individual, and how instantly it takes effect.
The tree exercise was also a new experience for me. I have always loved to play and climb and have spent many many hours in trees. However, I had never actually attempted to communicate with them. The tree that I chose was a huge old one that overlooks the lagoon. I became extremely relaxed when I had my back to it for a couple minutes, so relaxed that I forgot to follow the specific instructions, like the question asking, that were given to us before we left the room. I felt like it was actually another being that I was spending time with. I wondered if the tree was enjoying this experience as much as I was. I also wondered if the tree appreciated this interaction as much. Perhaps it was a very moving experience for the tree as well because it is definitely not used to people touching it or being so close to it for such an extended period of time. Now, every time I pass that tree near the art building I acknowledge its presence and I often even spend a couple minutes relaxing with it.
Our class meeting with Barbara Janelle opened my eyes to many ways of nonverbal communication. She taught me to drop my preconceived notions about other life forms, and that we are all constantly exchanging energy and information. She also encouraged me to be a more calm person, and much more receptive to other species' countless ways of communication.
[Write Comment]
Barbara Janelle
By Megan Mueller (05/29/14 10:32:03)
I found the experience with Barbara Janelle, the animal communicator, to be fascinating, uncomfortable, and zen inducing. Barbara had a calm energy. She spoke softly but confidently, forcing me to to concentrate to hear what she was saying. Barbara's style and message struck me as an exciting combination of Buddhism and Cesar Milan. She was perceptive and in control of the room.
I was pretty consistently uncomfortable throughout the experience. I found myself judgmental of a particular dog owner's handling of their dog and feeling overwhelmed with my work load. So it was difficult to be present at first, but Barbara quietly demanded presence and participation. She said many wise things that could be applied to literally anything.
During the short break she asked us to find a tree (let it pick us) and place our hands on it. This was my favorite exercise of the experience. Upon placing my hands on the tree, the energy was palpable and give me goose bumps.
Our homework was to communicate with an animal using the things we learned in class. I have been making a point to focus on communicating with my cat Trout. I find that she is generally receptive of the attention and I am a more thoughtful care taker by considering her experience from her scale, position, sensitivity to sound etc. I am noticing more.
[Write Comment]
By Megan Mueller (05/29/14 10:32:03)
I found the experience with Barbara Janelle, the animal communicator, to be fascinating, uncomfortable, and zen inducing. Barbara had a calm energy. She spoke softly but confidently, forcing me to to concentrate to hear what she was saying. Barbara's style and message struck me as an exciting combination of Buddhism and Cesar Milan. She was perceptive and in control of the room.
I was pretty consistently uncomfortable throughout the experience. I found myself judgmental of a particular dog owner's handling of their dog and feeling overwhelmed with my work load. So it was difficult to be present at first, but Barbara quietly demanded presence and participation. She said many wise things that could be applied to literally anything.
During the short break she asked us to find a tree (let it pick us) and place our hands on it. This was my favorite exercise of the experience. Upon placing my hands on the tree, the energy was palpable and give me goose bumps.
Our homework was to communicate with an animal using the things we learned in class. I have been making a point to focus on communicating with my cat Trout. I find that she is generally receptive of the attention and I am a more thoughtful care taker by considering her experience from her scale, position, sensitivity to sound etc. I am noticing more.
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Reflection: Animal Communication
Barbara Janelle Response
By Jenny Roberts (04/14/13 20:28:45)
Related animals: Dog, Horse, Human
'Animal communicators' have always been a topic of skepticism with myself. While I do believe humans and animals are completely able to communicate, and after watching the video as well as being part of Barbara's talk/workshop, I am still not sure what I think exactly so ill try to articulate as best I can:
- Firstly, I am still not completely convinced that an animal communicators are in fact able to communicate on a higher level than the average joe, however one thing for certain, is I in no way believe that they can without ever meeting the animal subject. Everyone can make assumptions based on behavioral and social clues. Just because you have studied animals to the degree that you can read behaviors and attribute perceived qualities to something, does not mean you have an ability to communicate with them in a "greater than" way
- That being said, after the workshop with Barbara I do in someways feel that I may have had some slight communication when she had us try to communicate with an animal. My brain chose my 12 year old Yorkie, Trinket who slept in my bed from ages(mine) 10 to 18, she is the Alpha dog, extremely jealous, not the best with small children or large feet, but the sweetest little thing to the people she loves. She is literally all bark and no bite these days as she has only 2 teeth left and her pretty little eyes have cataracts and is slowly loosing her sight and her tiny body is more frail than ever, but still she does her best to keep up with Kali, our three year old ball of energy. When Barbara instructed us to see through their eyes is when I felt a connection. I saw blurred grey images in my left eye any close to nothing in the other. I immediately felt my heart sink and thought "oh baby girl im so sorry will you be able to recognize me for long?" and then I felt or heard and saw a response. I saw my own silhouette and felt love as my head responded with "I'll always know my Jenny" which made me choke up instantly and want to drive the 4 hours to see her that instant! Luckily I was able to go home this weekend for the first time since New Years Eve and as I got out of the car to open the gate to our property I saw her running down the hill towards me. when I reached her she jumped around my legs so excited until I was able to pick her up holding her forward with one arm hugging her with the other supporting her. She then turned herself around in my arms to face me where she proceeded to switch from putting her paws on my chest licking my face to leaning back to look at me yelping ecstatically and dancing and waving her paws in excitement. It was the sweetest moment, it really was as if she was telling me 'oh my oh my! I heard you! you love me!' This may have just been a case of the times, but it was so so endearing I zm starting to think otherwise.
- So I'm not sure what I think completely, but I do think a telepathic like communication with animals is definitely possible. Animals can understand us in so many obvious ways its only fair that we try to do the same with them.
[Write Comment]
By Jenny Roberts (04/14/13 20:28:45)
Related animals: Dog, Horse, Human
'Animal communicators' have always been a topic of skepticism with myself. While I do believe humans and animals are completely able to communicate, and after watching the video as well as being part of Barbara's talk/workshop, I am still not sure what I think exactly so ill try to articulate as best I can:
- Firstly, I am still not completely convinced that an animal communicators are in fact able to communicate on a higher level than the average joe, however one thing for certain, is I in no way believe that they can without ever meeting the animal subject. Everyone can make assumptions based on behavioral and social clues. Just because you have studied animals to the degree that you can read behaviors and attribute perceived qualities to something, does not mean you have an ability to communicate with them in a "greater than" way
- That being said, after the workshop with Barbara I do in someways feel that I may have had some slight communication when she had us try to communicate with an animal. My brain chose my 12 year old Yorkie, Trinket who slept in my bed from ages(mine) 10 to 18, she is the Alpha dog, extremely jealous, not the best with small children or large feet, but the sweetest little thing to the people she loves. She is literally all bark and no bite these days as she has only 2 teeth left and her pretty little eyes have cataracts and is slowly loosing her sight and her tiny body is more frail than ever, but still she does her best to keep up with Kali, our three year old ball of energy. When Barbara instructed us to see through their eyes is when I felt a connection. I saw blurred grey images in my left eye any close to nothing in the other. I immediately felt my heart sink and thought "oh baby girl im so sorry will you be able to recognize me for long?" and then I felt or heard and saw a response. I saw my own silhouette and felt love as my head responded with "I'll always know my Jenny" which made me choke up instantly and want to drive the 4 hours to see her that instant! Luckily I was able to go home this weekend for the first time since New Years Eve and as I got out of the car to open the gate to our property I saw her running down the hill towards me. when I reached her she jumped around my legs so excited until I was able to pick her up holding her forward with one arm hugging her with the other supporting her. She then turned herself around in my arms to face me where she proceeded to switch from putting her paws on my chest licking my face to leaning back to look at me yelping ecstatically and dancing and waving her paws in excitement. It was the sweetest moment, it really was as if she was telling me 'oh my oh my! I heard you! you love me!' This may have just been a case of the times, but it was so so endearing I zm starting to think otherwise.
- So I'm not sure what I think completely, but I do think a telepathic like communication with animals is definitely possible. Animals can understand us in so many obvious ways its only fair that we try to do the same with them.
[Write Comment]
Barbara Janelle's workshop
By Kirsten Howard (04/22/10 12:24:15)
I thoroughly enjoyed the animal communication workshop. I found that I could relate to what she was talking about as far as there being a sort of energy in all beings and that with meditation and opening up your consciousness, it can be read and transmitted. I have been practicing what she talked about with animals that I see and with trees that I pass. Just the other day, I was sitting in front of Borders Book Store and there were a lot of this little round birds running around and going in and out of these plants. One approached me and stared at me, and I worked to make a calm, open presence in front of it. I sensed that it wanted me to follow it, so I did, and it hopped up and in between these plants, and in the inside was a circle of space. I felt that the bird was showing me that this was its favorite spot, where it could be safe and surrounded by a circle of flowers. It was as if I was being welcomed into its home.
During the workshop, when she had us go outside and try to connect with a plant or animal, I was drawn to this small yellow flower, and I sat with it and cleared my own self before so that I would know what was mine and what was the flower's feeling. I suddenly felt warm and alive. I also felt a strong pull towards the sun, and had an urge to twist my head over and up to have sunlight on my face, however, it was slightly challenging, as my neck got slightly stiff. And after the experience I felt that the flower was showing me how simple joy is the beauty of life, just opening up and realizing happiness in everyday things.
That made me think about Barbara Janelle said about how animals and plants can teach us things. I think it is really important to learn from them, because they are truly natural and we need to begin practicing a sort of involution, if you will, in order to save the planet, ourselves, and our precious plants and animals.
I read the handout that she gave us after the workshop, and something she said really touched me, "And in my life now, I walk in an expanded world where the Earth is music, trees and grass and flowers speak great wisdom, rocks hold information, the wind connects, oceans heal and renew life, and animals bring insight and humor."
[Write Comment]
By Kirsten Howard (04/22/10 12:24:15)
I thoroughly enjoyed the animal communication workshop. I found that I could relate to what she was talking about as far as there being a sort of energy in all beings and that with meditation and opening up your consciousness, it can be read and transmitted. I have been practicing what she talked about with animals that I see and with trees that I pass. Just the other day, I was sitting in front of Borders Book Store and there were a lot of this little round birds running around and going in and out of these plants. One approached me and stared at me, and I worked to make a calm, open presence in front of it. I sensed that it wanted me to follow it, so I did, and it hopped up and in between these plants, and in the inside was a circle of space. I felt that the bird was showing me that this was its favorite spot, where it could be safe and surrounded by a circle of flowers. It was as if I was being welcomed into its home.
During the workshop, when she had us go outside and try to connect with a plant or animal, I was drawn to this small yellow flower, and I sat with it and cleared my own self before so that I would know what was mine and what was the flower's feeling. I suddenly felt warm and alive. I also felt a strong pull towards the sun, and had an urge to twist my head over and up to have sunlight on my face, however, it was slightly challenging, as my neck got slightly stiff. And after the experience I felt that the flower was showing me how simple joy is the beauty of life, just opening up and realizing happiness in everyday things.
That made me think about Barbara Janelle said about how animals and plants can teach us things. I think it is really important to learn from them, because they are truly natural and we need to begin practicing a sort of involution, if you will, in order to save the planet, ourselves, and our precious plants and animals.
I read the handout that she gave us after the workshop, and something she said really touched me, "And in my life now, I walk in an expanded world where the Earth is music, trees and grass and flowers speak great wisdom, rocks hold information, the wind connects, oceans heal and renew life, and animals bring insight and humor."
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Barbara Janelle: Animal Communicator
By leona chen (05/12/09 21:51:05)
4/28/09
During our meeting with Barbara, we used Thiebaud (the Dachshund dog) as a subject to try our communicating skills to. She discovered that Thiebaud lives in a world of scent. Animal needs are not human needs, and in order to understand them: we need to see through their needs.
-World of communication is universal, even animal communication.
-She is a M.A. practitioner of horses and companion animals.
-2 elements needed to communicate:
ability to quiet yourself. To bring yourself into the present life, To also be aware of present instead of the past and future.
-Figure out if animal came as a surprise or conscious choice.
-How does animal come to mind:
tactile, hearing, smell, conceptual. (memory, habits, memory of things done together)
-Communication: 3-5% words, most comes from senses and mental connections.
-Therapeutic touch: field of study.
-Thiebaud greets everyone, which weaves everyone into the group. We find a connection between each other.
-Find tree: does the tree find you? Or do you find the tree?
1.) Touch the tree.
2.) Walk away from it.
3.) Put your back against it.
4.) Ask the tree to tell you something you should/need to know.
-When communicating with animals imagine yourself as the mirror of that animal.
-Gratitude is as important as the encounterment and communication with the living being.
Related Website: ANIMAL COMMUNICATION: A JOURNEY
[Write Comment]
By leona chen (05/12/09 21:51:05)
4/28/09
During our meeting with Barbara, we used Thiebaud (the Dachshund dog) as a subject to try our communicating skills to. She discovered that Thiebaud lives in a world of scent. Animal needs are not human needs, and in order to understand them: we need to see through their needs.
-World of communication is universal, even animal communication.
-She is a M.A. practitioner of horses and companion animals.
-2 elements needed to communicate:
ability to quiet yourself. To bring yourself into the present life, To also be aware of present instead of the past and future.
-Figure out if animal came as a surprise or conscious choice.
-How does animal come to mind:
tactile, hearing, smell, conceptual. (memory, habits, memory of things done together)
-Communication: 3-5% words, most comes from senses and mental connections.
-Therapeutic touch: field of study.
-Thiebaud greets everyone, which weaves everyone into the group. We find a connection between each other.
-Find tree: does the tree find you? Or do you find the tree?
1.) Touch the tree.
2.) Walk away from it.
3.) Put your back against it.
4.) Ask the tree to tell you something you should/need to know.
-When communicating with animals imagine yourself as the mirror of that animal.
-Gratitude is as important as the encounterment and communication with the living being.
Related Website: ANIMAL COMMUNICATION: A JOURNEY
[Write Comment]
Bear Impressions: Grizzly Man
By Travis Jepson (06/08/10 00:55:10)
Related animal: Bear
The documentary on Timothy Treadwell was very interesting in the context of this class. Especially the second time around, I felt I truly understood what I was watching. The director gave a very excellent overall view, though at the end he seemed to suddenly switch gears to criticize Tim's work.
I believe Tim did not want to become a bear as many of his critics suggest, I believe he adopted their mannerisms due to the fact he was all alone and that he is interacting with them to live among them. Being completely alone drives him to use the camera in his documentation as a journal for telling his thoughts. In many instances we see how his everyday interactions cause Tim to realize just how helpless these powerful animals really are. He sees how they are at the mercy of man and that life is tough in the wilderness for these animals. He sees that nothing is all powerful. I believe Tim saw the bears as a symbol of strength but in the end he saw that they were just a part of nature where no one being remains supreme.
I believe what drove him to this lifestyle came from when he lost his core discipline. He was a highly successful college diver and he lost it all due to partying. After this he lost his focus and it would seem that he was looking for something to put all his energy into. Tim found his passion release in observing/protecting wild animals.
Perhaps the most interesting point raised was the issue of what animals we choose to value and save. For instance the bear that killed Tim was killed in its natural habitat, why? In the more private sector this problem becomes more obvious, at the zoo a tiger kills a man who was teasing it while it was confined to a cage. A guard walks over and shoots it dead. However if we look at the instances in Seaworld, an orca whale kills three trainers yet no action is taken. I believe it does not matter what the animal does, it comes down to the cost. Especially in our society, the price value over-weighs human and animal value.
[Write Comment]
By Travis Jepson (06/08/10 00:55:10)
Related animal: Bear
The documentary on Timothy Treadwell was very interesting in the context of this class. Especially the second time around, I felt I truly understood what I was watching. The director gave a very excellent overall view, though at the end he seemed to suddenly switch gears to criticize Tim's work.
I believe Tim did not want to become a bear as many of his critics suggest, I believe he adopted their mannerisms due to the fact he was all alone and that he is interacting with them to live among them. Being completely alone drives him to use the camera in his documentation as a journal for telling his thoughts. In many instances we see how his everyday interactions cause Tim to realize just how helpless these powerful animals really are. He sees how they are at the mercy of man and that life is tough in the wilderness for these animals. He sees that nothing is all powerful. I believe Tim saw the bears as a symbol of strength but in the end he saw that they were just a part of nature where no one being remains supreme.
I believe what drove him to this lifestyle came from when he lost his core discipline. He was a highly successful college diver and he lost it all due to partying. After this he lost his focus and it would seem that he was looking for something to put all his energy into. Tim found his passion release in observing/protecting wild animals.
Perhaps the most interesting point raised was the issue of what animals we choose to value and save. For instance the bear that killed Tim was killed in its natural habitat, why? In the more private sector this problem becomes more obvious, at the zoo a tiger kills a man who was teasing it while it was confined to a cage. A guard walks over and shoots it dead. However if we look at the instances in Seaworld, an orca whale kills three trainers yet no action is taken. I believe it does not matter what the animal does, it comes down to the cost. Especially in our society, the price value over-weighs human and animal value.
[Write Comment]
Being a Mermaid
By Sinead Kennedy (06/04/09 01:01:50)
I had a hard time trying to show others how I feel while diving. It's a unique, free feeling, while also feeling part of this completely different world from the terrestrial one we are used to living our everyday lives on. It is said that there is more known about Earth's moon than is known about the ocean. It is mysterious and beautiful, and there is something about the ocean as a whole that expresses itself as one being to me. sometimes I feel like the ocean is a large, spread out soul that has sort of accepted me into its layer. I then have the feeling that the marine life also accepts me, as the ocean is sort of like the all-knowing sage of the world.
I came across this video, and really enjoyed it, as it very accurately depicts how I feel while diving in the ocean.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhzVDzCRgrc&feature=PlayList&p=4DABA147230D7A3D&index=9
[Write Comment]
By Sinead Kennedy (06/04/09 01:01:50)
I had a hard time trying to show others how I feel while diving. It's a unique, free feeling, while also feeling part of this completely different world from the terrestrial one we are used to living our everyday lives on. It is said that there is more known about Earth's moon than is known about the ocean. It is mysterious and beautiful, and there is something about the ocean as a whole that expresses itself as one being to me. sometimes I feel like the ocean is a large, spread out soul that has sort of accepted me into its layer. I then have the feeling that the marine life also accepts me, as the ocean is sort of like the all-knowing sage of the world.
I came across this video, and really enjoyed it, as it very accurately depicts how I feel while diving in the ocean.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhzVDzCRgrc&feature=PlayList&p=4DABA147230D7A3D&index=9
[Write Comment]
Bird Skulls
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:31:47)
Related animals: Owl, Parakeet
Interspecies Collaboration Week 3
I have a weird fascination with skulls. None specific; just skeleton heads. I think their structure and material is so fascinating. How the bone is formed to fit the eyes and mouth. I also like how each one is different; no to skulls are exact so each one if unique. A few months ago I was walking home from class and at the bottom of my stairs was a skeleton of a bird. The only piece of it intact was the skull. It was a very small bird because the skull was about the size of a grape but still so detailed and intricate. I was so excited for my findings that I disregarded the whole wild animals disease thing. I picked up the skull and brought it into the house. I cleaned it and examined it to figure out what kind of bird this skull was from. After researching online and comparing pictures for a while I finally came to the conclusion that it was a parakeet, which most likely meant it was someone’s former pet. So my next question was, how did it get to the bottom of our stairs with only tiny hints of feathers on the bone? I had no idea at first so I asked my housemates what they thought. They said that since I found it in the early morning it must have been dropped by something over night. It was impossible to tell for sure how the birds skeleton got there but we came to three conclusions:
1) The parakeet got out of its cage at it’s owners house and after it’s escape, ran into a predator owl who was searching for a meal in the night. The owl finished the edible parts of the bird then just happened to drop it close to our doorstep.
2) The owner was starved so she killed the bird and took all of its feathers and organs off to cook and eat them. Then the owner disposed of the bones by throwing them over the fence.
3) The parakeet was sitting on the window sill of it’s owners bedroom soaking in the rays of the sun when Garfield the Trigo road cat grabbed it and ate everything but the bone off of its body.
After I cleaned it the skull of the parakeet I was forced to put it outside because my roommates were too grossed out by it. I place a glass cup over it so it wouldn’t get blown off the balcony or taken by any other animal. The next day I came back to clean the skull even more and it was gone. I looked over the railing of the balcony and a dog was sitting playing with it on the sidewalk floor. The skull was in pieces and now the mystery of the appearing skull will never be solved. I am happy that I found out the species of the bird though.
Parakeet Skull Owl skull
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:31:47)
Related animals: Owl, Parakeet
Interspecies Collaboration Week 3
I have a weird fascination with skulls. None specific; just skeleton heads. I think their structure and material is so fascinating. How the bone is formed to fit the eyes and mouth. I also like how each one is different; no to skulls are exact so each one if unique. A few months ago I was walking home from class and at the bottom of my stairs was a skeleton of a bird. The only piece of it intact was the skull. It was a very small bird because the skull was about the size of a grape but still so detailed and intricate. I was so excited for my findings that I disregarded the whole wild animals disease thing. I picked up the skull and brought it into the house. I cleaned it and examined it to figure out what kind of bird this skull was from. After researching online and comparing pictures for a while I finally came to the conclusion that it was a parakeet, which most likely meant it was someone’s former pet. So my next question was, how did it get to the bottom of our stairs with only tiny hints of feathers on the bone? I had no idea at first so I asked my housemates what they thought. They said that since I found it in the early morning it must have been dropped by something over night. It was impossible to tell for sure how the birds skeleton got there but we came to three conclusions:
1) The parakeet got out of its cage at it’s owners house and after it’s escape, ran into a predator owl who was searching for a meal in the night. The owl finished the edible parts of the bird then just happened to drop it close to our doorstep.
2) The owner was starved so she killed the bird and took all of its feathers and organs off to cook and eat them. Then the owner disposed of the bones by throwing them over the fence.
3) The parakeet was sitting on the window sill of it’s owners bedroom soaking in the rays of the sun when Garfield the Trigo road cat grabbed it and ate everything but the bone off of its body.
After I cleaned it the skull of the parakeet I was forced to put it outside because my roommates were too grossed out by it. I place a glass cup over it so it wouldn’t get blown off the balcony or taken by any other animal. The next day I came back to clean the skull even more and it was gone. I looked over the railing of the balcony and a dog was sitting playing with it on the sidewalk floor. The skull was in pieces and now the mystery of the appearing skull will never be solved. I am happy that I found out the species of the bird though.
Parakeet Skull Owl skull
[Write Comment]
Birds Talking
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:37:15)
Related animals: Raven, Bald Eagle
Interspecies Collaboration Week 9
So I finally made it back to Big Bear to finish my project last weekend and the experiment didn’t really go as well as I had imagined it would. I went to the zoo and played sounds of my previous animal recordings, but no one wanted to play ball. Many of the animals at the animal park were hiding in their enclosures for some reason. I spent the whole day there and got few results. Since the bald eagle sounds were the most frequent and most recognizable in my recordings, I decided to try those the most with the other species of animals. First I played the eagle sounds to the pack of wolves but all they did was watch me as they paced back and forward along the fence separating us. It was actually very ironic because two minutes after I put my computer away and stopped recording and playing the eagle noises the pack started howling. I couldn’t tell whether it was because they were tricking me or if it was dinnertime. The wolves were who I was most excited about with this project, but unfortunately there were no recordings to go off of. This also happened with the owl, Huckleberry the three-legged bear, the badger, and a few other animals I played the recordings for. I did however receive some results from other species of birds in reaction to the eagle calls. The zoo has a pair of ravens that sometimes make the strangest noises. First hearing it you would never guess that it was from a bird; let alone a raven. I started playing back the audio on a loop and for about ten minutes the two ravens didn’t even budge. After a little while though they began making strange chattering noises and sounds that almost sounded like someone kept burping. I had never heard something like that come from a bird before.
All of the pieces in the show were great. My favorites were Madi’s pig portraits and Tessa’s animal audio. The portraits were so up close and personal and although at first glance you would think they’re ugly, but the pigs were actually very beautiful creatures.
My piece was a recording of the eagle’s mixed with the reaction of the ravens. I had two different recordings of the ravens but for some reason one of them didn’t work. My project had no visual aspects to it so I decided to post photos of the animals in which I recorded.
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:37:15)
Related animals: Raven, Bald Eagle
Interspecies Collaboration Week 9
So I finally made it back to Big Bear to finish my project last weekend and the experiment didn’t really go as well as I had imagined it would. I went to the zoo and played sounds of my previous animal recordings, but no one wanted to play ball. Many of the animals at the animal park were hiding in their enclosures for some reason. I spent the whole day there and got few results. Since the bald eagle sounds were the most frequent and most recognizable in my recordings, I decided to try those the most with the other species of animals. First I played the eagle sounds to the pack of wolves but all they did was watch me as they paced back and forward along the fence separating us. It was actually very ironic because two minutes after I put my computer away and stopped recording and playing the eagle noises the pack started howling. I couldn’t tell whether it was because they were tricking me or if it was dinnertime. The wolves were who I was most excited about with this project, but unfortunately there were no recordings to go off of. This also happened with the owl, Huckleberry the three-legged bear, the badger, and a few other animals I played the recordings for. I did however receive some results from other species of birds in reaction to the eagle calls. The zoo has a pair of ravens that sometimes make the strangest noises. First hearing it you would never guess that it was from a bird; let alone a raven. I started playing back the audio on a loop and for about ten minutes the two ravens didn’t even budge. After a little while though they began making strange chattering noises and sounds that almost sounded like someone kept burping. I had never heard something like that come from a bird before.
All of the pieces in the show were great. My favorites were Madi’s pig portraits and Tessa’s animal audio. The portraits were so up close and personal and although at first glance you would think they’re ugly, but the pigs were actually very beautiful creatures.
My piece was a recording of the eagle’s mixed with the reaction of the ravens. I had two different recordings of the ravens but for some reason one of them didn’t work. My project had no visual aspects to it so I decided to post photos of the animals in which I recorded.
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Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Black Bear
By leona chen (04/29/09 21:40:13)
Related animal: Bear
(This is on the powerpoint that I will present in class)
The black bear
Vocalizations & Body Language
• Black bears use sounds, body language, and scent-marking to express their emotions of the moment.
• Amiable sounds are grunts and tongue clicks used by mothers concerned for their cubs and by bears approaching other bears to mate or play. Cubs make a motor-like pulsing hum when they nurse or are especially comfortable.
• Black Bear sounds
Human/Bear Communication
Bears convey information through a diverse range of body language, vocalizations and odor signals. People often interpret what a bear does in terms of their own fear. To truly understand bear behavior, you must interpret bear postures and vocalizations in terms of what the bear fears.
Bears communicate by seeing, touching, vocalizing and smelling. Bears speak a language of dominance or submission; and of aggression or solicitation. They react to people in the same way they would react to another bear.
They communicate with grunts, by expelling air in different ways, or with a resonant "voice". Bears use the same vocalizations and body language toward people that they do toward each other, and knowing those sounds can help people react appropriately to bears they encounter.
A bear's body posture can communicate its mood
• Walking, running, sitting and lying down are actions conveying the bear is subordinate to another bear or person. The bear is saying it does not want to fight for dominance.
• He may look away, yawning with feigning disinterest. He may exhibit "ignoring" behavior - standing motionless or perhaps grazing, indicating he has no intentions and just wants to be left alone.
• A bear may lunge suddenly toward a threat, and slap at the ground or surrounding vegetation. The interpretation of this behavior is merely a bluff that means the bear feels nervous and apprehensive, but for some reason is reluctant to leave.
• When a black bear climbs a tree, it is showing its submission.
• A bear may sit down or move away to show respect.
One idea for helping the process of collaboration is the method of Power animals. I feel that Power Animals can help us engage at a spiritual level instead of a physical level with the animals. This idea was cited in the animal communicator: Barbara's packet that she passed out to us. The book was "Animal Speak". I found discovered this not by Barbara but through looking on the web for Black Bear folklore's. It is a very interesting approach in the selection process of what animal to collaborate with.
Power Animals
• Shamans believe that everyone has power animals - animal spirits which reside with each individual adding to their power and protecting them from illness, acting similarly to a guardian angel.
• In the shamanic belief every thing is alive and carries with it power and wisdom.
• Power animal, is a broadly animistic and shamanic concept that has entered the English language from Anthropology, Ethnography and Sociology.
• The spirit also lends you the wisdom of its kind. A bear spirit will give you bear wisdom, and lend you some of the attributes of bear.
How to Find Your Power Animal
Step 1
• Find your power animal pro-actively by asking the animal spirits for a dream. Then rest and let the power animal find you. Don’t dismiss smaller animals such as mice or even insects. Animals have their own unique strengths. You may want to keep a journal beside your bed and make note of recurring dreams in which an animal or some form of an animal appears again.
Step 2
• Notice the things in nature that you are continually drawn to. Power animals may guide your senses and attention to certain elements, natural sites or geographical phenomena that are reminiscent of or peculiar to a certain animal. If you are repeatedly captivated by nests, burrows or snow, for example, let the animal world communicate itself to you.
Step 3
• Take time during the day to relax, close your eyes and breathe. Power animals frequently make themselves known to us when we are conscious as well as when we are asleep. Be receptive to visions through meditation. In your calm state, imagine a situation where you move out of your personal space such as your home and enter into an unknown but nonthreatening and quiet natural space such as a field or a cave.
[Write Comment]
By leona chen (04/29/09 21:40:13)
Related animal: Bear
(This is on the powerpoint that I will present in class)
The black bear
Vocalizations & Body Language
• Black bears use sounds, body language, and scent-marking to express their emotions of the moment.
• Amiable sounds are grunts and tongue clicks used by mothers concerned for their cubs and by bears approaching other bears to mate or play. Cubs make a motor-like pulsing hum when they nurse or are especially comfortable.
• Black Bear sounds
Human/Bear Communication
Bears convey information through a diverse range of body language, vocalizations and odor signals. People often interpret what a bear does in terms of their own fear. To truly understand bear behavior, you must interpret bear postures and vocalizations in terms of what the bear fears.
Bears communicate by seeing, touching, vocalizing and smelling. Bears speak a language of dominance or submission; and of aggression or solicitation. They react to people in the same way they would react to another bear.
They communicate with grunts, by expelling air in different ways, or with a resonant "voice". Bears use the same vocalizations and body language toward people that they do toward each other, and knowing those sounds can help people react appropriately to bears they encounter.
A bear's body posture can communicate its mood
• Walking, running, sitting and lying down are actions conveying the bear is subordinate to another bear or person. The bear is saying it does not want to fight for dominance.
• He may look away, yawning with feigning disinterest. He may exhibit "ignoring" behavior - standing motionless or perhaps grazing, indicating he has no intentions and just wants to be left alone.
• A bear may lunge suddenly toward a threat, and slap at the ground or surrounding vegetation. The interpretation of this behavior is merely a bluff that means the bear feels nervous and apprehensive, but for some reason is reluctant to leave.
• When a black bear climbs a tree, it is showing its submission.
• A bear may sit down or move away to show respect.
One idea for helping the process of collaboration is the method of Power animals. I feel that Power Animals can help us engage at a spiritual level instead of a physical level with the animals. This idea was cited in the animal communicator: Barbara's packet that she passed out to us. The book was "Animal Speak". I found discovered this not by Barbara but through looking on the web for Black Bear folklore's. It is a very interesting approach in the selection process of what animal to collaborate with.
Power Animals
• Shamans believe that everyone has power animals - animal spirits which reside with each individual adding to their power and protecting them from illness, acting similarly to a guardian angel.
• In the shamanic belief every thing is alive and carries with it power and wisdom.
• Power animal, is a broadly animistic and shamanic concept that has entered the English language from Anthropology, Ethnography and Sociology.
• The spirit also lends you the wisdom of its kind. A bear spirit will give you bear wisdom, and lend you some of the attributes of bear.
How to Find Your Power Animal
Step 1
• Find your power animal pro-actively by asking the animal spirits for a dream. Then rest and let the power animal find you. Don’t dismiss smaller animals such as mice or even insects. Animals have their own unique strengths. You may want to keep a journal beside your bed and make note of recurring dreams in which an animal or some form of an animal appears again.
Step 2
• Notice the things in nature that you are continually drawn to. Power animals may guide your senses and attention to certain elements, natural sites or geographical phenomena that are reminiscent of or peculiar to a certain animal. If you are repeatedly captivated by nests, burrows or snow, for example, let the animal world communicate itself to you.
Step 3
• Take time during the day to relax, close your eyes and breathe. Power animals frequently make themselves known to us when we are conscious as well as when we are asleep. Be receptive to visions through meditation. In your calm state, imagine a situation where you move out of your personal space such as your home and enter into an unknown but nonthreatening and quiet natural space such as a field or a cave.
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Reflection: Other Related Research
Blue Crane Bike Path Experience
By Serena Zahler (04/29/10 15:13:25)
Related animals: Crane, Gofer
I forgot to write about the profound experience I had when riding home from the gym a couple weeks ago. As I was riding on the bike path right behind the baseball field, I witnessed a crane slowly walking across with a gofer in his mouth. He was so elegant even in his most animalistic representation. I stopped and watched the crane walk across and then behind a bush before he swallowed the gofer whole. It was interesting to note that no one else riding on the bike path saw. This shows how we often pass by the most simplistic yet beautiful moments because we are so caught up in our human-beingness. It is also interesting the long time frame it took the crane to walk, choose a place to finish his meal, and eat. As humans we forget that every species has it's own sense of time and space. All of the bikes huddle close on the bike path to ride as fast as possible to their destination, while the crane takes time to move away from the human time-frame space of the bike path. As a species humans need to remember that there are other times than our time. By keeping this different sense of time in mind, our interspecies collaborations can be informed by a deeper awareness. The idea of time may be a great place to begin an idea for collaboration.
[Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (04/29/10 15:13:25)
Related animals: Crane, Gofer
I forgot to write about the profound experience I had when riding home from the gym a couple weeks ago. As I was riding on the bike path right behind the baseball field, I witnessed a crane slowly walking across with a gofer in his mouth. He was so elegant even in his most animalistic representation. I stopped and watched the crane walk across and then behind a bush before he swallowed the gofer whole. It was interesting to note that no one else riding on the bike path saw. This shows how we often pass by the most simplistic yet beautiful moments because we are so caught up in our human-beingness. It is also interesting the long time frame it took the crane to walk, choose a place to finish his meal, and eat. As humans we forget that every species has it's own sense of time and space. All of the bikes huddle close on the bike path to ride as fast as possible to their destination, while the crane takes time to move away from the human time-frame space of the bike path. As a species humans need to remember that there are other times than our time. By keeping this different sense of time in mind, our interspecies collaborations can be informed by a deeper awareness. The idea of time may be a great place to begin an idea for collaboration.
[Write Comment]
Bobcat
By Shanti Harris (04/30/09 08:04:09)
Related animal: Bobcat
Physical Description:
The Bobcat or "Lynx Rufus" is approximately twice the size of a domestic house cat. The weight of a female bobcat is about 20lbs and 30lbs for males. Their fur ranges in color (brown/grey, reddish/brown) and contains multiple spots and dark lines/patches. It's tail is short with a black tip and bobbed, hence the name "bobcat."
Senses:
Bobcats rely on their keen sight and hearing senses to capture their prey (rabbits, deer, mice, birds, squirrels, insects, rodents, fish).
Their sense of smell is not as strong as their sight and hearing senses.
Behavior:
They mark their territory with debris, dirt, markings, scratches and their own scents. Caves, rocky shelters, thickets, hollowed logs are used as shelter and protection from weather.
Bobcats are solitary animals and very territorial. Female territory size is about 6 square miles. Female bobcats do not share their territory with one another. Males however, will overlap their territory, which spans about 30 square miles.
Facts:
1) The hind leg foot-prints of the bobcat lie directly on top of its front feet footprints. Their trail as a result, looks similar to a trail left by a two-legged animal.
2) Bobcats feel their prey with their whiskers, similar to the way other animals sense their environment and food with their fingertips.
3) They cover large prey animals such as deer, with leaves, dirt, tree branches and debris to "store" until they return the next day/night to feed.
4) The bobcat's growl/call sounds similar to that of a mountain lion.
5) In captivity, bobcat's can live to be over 20 years. They live to be about 12 years old in the wild.
6) Bobcats are nocturnal and hunt mostly at night
7) They are great swimmers and enjoy the water more than most feline species.
Resources:
http://www.nhptv.org/Natureworks/bobcat.htm
http://www.desertusa.com/april96/du_bcat.html
http://www.ofcats.com/2007/06/bobcat.html
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/bobcat.html
[Write Comment]
By Shanti Harris (04/30/09 08:04:09)
Related animal: Bobcat
Physical Description:
The Bobcat or "Lynx Rufus" is approximately twice the size of a domestic house cat. The weight of a female bobcat is about 20lbs and 30lbs for males. Their fur ranges in color (brown/grey, reddish/brown) and contains multiple spots and dark lines/patches. It's tail is short with a black tip and bobbed, hence the name "bobcat."
Senses:
Bobcats rely on their keen sight and hearing senses to capture their prey (rabbits, deer, mice, birds, squirrels, insects, rodents, fish).
Their sense of smell is not as strong as their sight and hearing senses.
Behavior:
They mark their territory with debris, dirt, markings, scratches and their own scents. Caves, rocky shelters, thickets, hollowed logs are used as shelter and protection from weather.
Bobcats are solitary animals and very territorial. Female territory size is about 6 square miles. Female bobcats do not share their territory with one another. Males however, will overlap their territory, which spans about 30 square miles.
Facts:
1) The hind leg foot-prints of the bobcat lie directly on top of its front feet footprints. Their trail as a result, looks similar to a trail left by a two-legged animal.
2) Bobcats feel their prey with their whiskers, similar to the way other animals sense their environment and food with their fingertips.
3) They cover large prey animals such as deer, with leaves, dirt, tree branches and debris to "store" until they return the next day/night to feed.
4) The bobcat's growl/call sounds similar to that of a mountain lion.
5) In captivity, bobcat's can live to be over 20 years. They live to be about 12 years old in the wild.
6) Bobcats are nocturnal and hunt mostly at night
7) They are great swimmers and enjoy the water more than most feline species.
Resources:
http://www.nhptv.org/Natureworks/bobcat.htm
http://www.desertusa.com/april96/du_bcat.html
http://www.ofcats.com/2007/06/bobcat.html
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/bobcat.html
Reflection: Non-Human Animal Perception and Cognition
Book Review: David Sedaris Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary
By Tessa Tapscott (06/08/13 23:12:27)
I read this book shortly after its release, as I am an avid David Sedaris reader, it was just a happy coincidence that it was about animals. The stories, while comedic are not necessarily happy or even pleasant, in fact all of them are quite cynical, some are even downright disgusting. Sedaris does not favor certain species or even domesticated versus wild animals, no creature is safe from his sharp-wit and cutting diction.
One of the stories outlines is told from the point of view of an Irish setter, a breed of dog that is known for its beauty and loyalty. This particular setter is “married” to a mixed breed, who resembles a caricature of the human equivalent of a “hick” or “hackneyed” character. She swears like a sailor, has a short temper and no notion of marital loyalty. The pure bred setter, of course, is well-spoken, level-headed and has a particularly strong sense of smell that favors books over the scent of the television. At some point the female has an “affair” with the bull terrier next door, whom later mauls a little girl. The setter simply forgives all her missteps and even acts as a father to the puppies that are not his. This quality in humans might be looked at as passive and unmanly, this dopey, easy-going characteristic is common in most Irish setters and proves that Sedaris must have actually researched not only dogs, but individual breeds of dogs. While the writing is so humorous one might not expect it to be well informed, but Sedaris takes his time to inject natural qualities into the animals that he anthropomorphizes in his work.
At the end of the story the dog and his person drive past a burning house. With the help of a very lucky dachshund the setter discovers that a teenaged son is trapped on the second floor. Unlike Lassie, the setter does not leap into action to save the child, as the smell of burning flesh wafts into his hypersensitive nasal passages the only thing the setter can think of is how hungry he is and his hope that his person will stop for hamburgers on the way home. While this sentiment is rather morbid, it seems like this response would be the more accurate one among dogs and I appreciate Sedaris’s adherence to this kind of harsh reality.
Many of the other stories in the book employ this kind of darkly realistic humor and while it is certainly guilty of anthropomorphizing, I think that it appeals to both animal lovers and those that appreciate quality writing. I look forward to Sedaris’ future work and I hope that he continues down this animal related writing path.
[Write Comment]
By Tessa Tapscott (06/08/13 23:12:27)
I read this book shortly after its release, as I am an avid David Sedaris reader, it was just a happy coincidence that it was about animals. The stories, while comedic are not necessarily happy or even pleasant, in fact all of them are quite cynical, some are even downright disgusting. Sedaris does not favor certain species or even domesticated versus wild animals, no creature is safe from his sharp-wit and cutting diction.
One of the stories outlines is told from the point of view of an Irish setter, a breed of dog that is known for its beauty and loyalty. This particular setter is “married” to a mixed breed, who resembles a caricature of the human equivalent of a “hick” or “hackneyed” character. She swears like a sailor, has a short temper and no notion of marital loyalty. The pure bred setter, of course, is well-spoken, level-headed and has a particularly strong sense of smell that favors books over the scent of the television. At some point the female has an “affair” with the bull terrier next door, whom later mauls a little girl. The setter simply forgives all her missteps and even acts as a father to the puppies that are not his. This quality in humans might be looked at as passive and unmanly, this dopey, easy-going characteristic is common in most Irish setters and proves that Sedaris must have actually researched not only dogs, but individual breeds of dogs. While the writing is so humorous one might not expect it to be well informed, but Sedaris takes his time to inject natural qualities into the animals that he anthropomorphizes in his work.
At the end of the story the dog and his person drive past a burning house. With the help of a very lucky dachshund the setter discovers that a teenaged son is trapped on the second floor. Unlike Lassie, the setter does not leap into action to save the child, as the smell of burning flesh wafts into his hypersensitive nasal passages the only thing the setter can think of is how hungry he is and his hope that his person will stop for hamburgers on the way home. While this sentiment is rather morbid, it seems like this response would be the more accurate one among dogs and I appreciate Sedaris’s adherence to this kind of harsh reality.
Many of the other stories in the book employ this kind of darkly realistic humor and while it is certainly guilty of anthropomorphizing, I think that it appeals to both animal lovers and those that appreciate quality writing. I look forward to Sedaris’ future work and I hope that he continues down this animal related writing path.
[Write Comment]
Bottlenose Dolphin
By Jeff Marsch (05/18/09 12:55:10)
Related animal: Dolphin
Behavior:
The bottlenose dolphin normally lives in small groups, usually containing up to 15 animals. However, group size may be highly variable since they live in fission-fusion societies within which individuals associate in small groups that change in composition, often on a daily or hourly basis. Typically, a group of adult females and their young live together in a pod, and juveniles in a mixed pod. Several of these pods can join together to form larger groups of 100 dolphins or more. These groups can occasionally exceed 1000 dolphins. Males live mostly alone or in groups of 2-3 and join the pods for short periods of time.
Bottlenose dolphins studied by researchers of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI off the island of Sardinia show non-random social behaviour during feeding activities and their social behaviour differs depending on the feeding activity in which they are engaged. In Sardinia, the presence of a floating marine fin-fish farm has been linked to a change in bottlenose dolphin distribution as a result of high fish density around the floating cages in the farming area.
The species sometimes shows curiosity towards humans in or near water. Occasionally, bottlenose dolphins have rescued injured divers by raising them to the surface. This is similar to behaviour they show towards injured members of their own species. In November 2004, a more dramatic report of dolphin intervention came from New Zealand. Four lifeguards, swimming 100 m (328 ft) off the coast near Whangarei, were approached by a shark (reportedly a Great White Shark). A group of bottlenose dolphins, most likely sensing danger to the swimmers, herded them together and tightly surrounded them for forty minutes, preventing an attack from the shark, as they returned to shore.
Dolphins have also been documented exhibiting altruistic behaviour toward other sea creatures. On Mahia Beach, New Zealand on March 10, 2008 two Pygmy Sperm Whales — a female and calf — became stranded on the beach. Rescuers, including Department of Conservation officer Malcolm Smith, attempted to refloat the whales, however their efforts failed four times. Shortly before the whales were to be euthanized a playful bottlenose dolphin known to local residents as Moko arrived and, after seemingly communicating with the whales, led them 200 meters along a sandbar to the open sea.
The bottlenose dolphin is a predator however, and it also often shows aggressive behaviour. This includes fights among males for rank and access to females, as well as aggression towards sharks, certain Orcas, and other smaller species of dolphins. During the mating season male dolphins compete vigorously with each other through displays of toughness and size with a series of acts such as head-butting. At least one population, off Scotland, has been observed to practice infanticide, and has also been filmed attacking and killing Harbour Porpoises. Researchers at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland have discovered that the local bottlenose dolphins attack and kill Harbour Porpoises without eating them due to competition for a decreasing food supply.
The bottlenose dolphin sometimes forms mixed species groups with certain other species from the dolphin family, particularly larger species such as the Short-finned Pilot Whale, the False Killer Whale and Risso's Dolphin. Interactions with smaller species, such as the Atlantic Spotted Dolphin and the Rough-toothed Dolphin, also occur in wild. While interactions with smaller species are sometimes afffiliative, they can also be aggressive.
Diet:
The bottlenose dolphin's diet consists mainly of small fish and squid.
Communication & Sense:
The dolphin's search for food is aided by a form of echolocation similar to sonar: they locate objects by producing sounds and listening for the echo. A broadband burst pulse of clicking sounds is emitted in a focused beam in front of the dolphin. To hear the returning echo they have two small ear openings behind the eyes but most sound waves are transmitted to the inner ear through the lower jaw. As the object of interest is approached the echo grows louder, and the dolphins adjust by decreasing the intensity of the emitted sounds. (This is in contrast to the technique used by bat echolocation and artificial sonar where the sensitivity of the sound receptor is attenuated.) As the animal approaches the target the interclick interval also decreases, as each click is usually produced after the round-trip travel time of the previous click is completed. Details of the dolphin's echolocation, such as signal strength, spectral qualities, and discrimination abilities have been well-investigated by researchers. Bottlenose dolphins are able to extract shape information from their echolocative sense, suggesting that they are able to form an "echoic image" of their targets.
Dolphins also have sharp eyesight. The eyes are located at the sides of the head and have a tapetum lucidum, or reflecting membrane at the back of the retina, which aids vision in dim light. Their horseshoe-shaped double-slit pupil enables the dolphin to have good vision both in air and underwater, despite the different densities of these media. When underwater the eyeball's lens serves to focus light, whereas in the in-air environment the typically bright light serves to contract the specialized pupil, resulting in sharpness from a smaller aperture (similar to a pinhole camera).
By contrast their sense of smell is poor, as would be expected since the blowhole, the analogue to the nose, is closed in the underwater environment, and opens only voluntarily for breathing. The olfactory nerves as well as the olfactory lobe in the brain are missing. Bottlenose dolphins are able to detect salty, sweet, bitter (quinine sulphate), and sour (citric acid) tastes, but this has not been well-studied. Anecdotally, some animals in captivity have been noted to have preferences for food fish types although it is not clear that this preference is mediated by taste.
Bottlenose dolphins communicate with one another through squeaks, whistles, and body language. Examples of body language include leaping out of the water, snapping jaws, slapping tails on the surface of the water, and butting heads with one another. All of these gestures are a way for the dolphins to convey messages. The sounds and gestures that bottlenose dolphins produce help keep track of other dolphins in the group and alert other dolphins to possible dangers and nearby food. They produce sounds using six air sacs near their blow hole (they lack vocal cords). Each animal has a characteristic frequency-modulated narrow-band signature vocalization (signature whistle) which is uniquely identifying. Other communication uses about 30 distinguishable sounds, and although famously proposed by John Lilly in the 1950s, a "dolphin language" has not been found. However, Herman, Richards, & Wolz demonstrated the comprehension of an artificial language by two bottlenose dolphins (named Akeakamai and Phoenix) in the period of skepticism toward animal language following Herbert Terrace's critique.
Intelligence/cognition:
Cognitive abilities investigated in the dolphin include concept formation, sensory skills, and the use of mental representation of dolphins. Such research has been ongoing from the 1970s. This includes:
* acoustic and behavioral mimicry
* comprehension of novel sequences in an artificial language
* memory
* monitoring of self behaviors
* discrimination and matching
* comprehension of symbols for various body parts
* comprehension of the pointing gesture and gaze (as made by dolphins or humans)
* mirror self-recognition
Recent research has shown that bottlenose dolphins are capable of comprehending numerical values. In an experiment where a dolphin was shown two panels with a various number of dots of different size and position, the dolphin was able to touch the panel with a greater number of dots.
Interaction with humans:
Dolphins have been made to collaborate with humans for a wide variety of commercial and military means throughout the 20th and 21st century. They have also grown to voluntarily interact with humans in the wild. A common instance if such collaboration is playing with surfers near the beach.
In the town of Laguna in south Brazil, a pod of bottlenose dolphins is known to drive fish towards fishermen who stand at the beach in shallow waters. One dolphin will then roll over, which the fishermen take as a sign to throw out their nets. The dolphins feed on the escaping fish. The dolphins were not trained for this behaviour; the collaboration has been going on at least since 1847. Similar cooperative fisheries also exist in Mauritania, Africa.
In the military (actually interesting):
http://www.spawar.navy.mil/sandiego/technology/mammals/mine_hunting.html
[Write Comment]
Comment by marschj (05/18/09 23:07:16):
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/04/090408-dolphin-speak-video-ap.html
Comment by marschj (05/18/09 23:06:07):
http://www.thewildclassroom.com/cetaceans/dolphinwhaleecholocation.html
By Jeff Marsch (05/18/09 12:55:10)
Related animal: Dolphin
Behavior:
The bottlenose dolphin normally lives in small groups, usually containing up to 15 animals. However, group size may be highly variable since they live in fission-fusion societies within which individuals associate in small groups that change in composition, often on a daily or hourly basis. Typically, a group of adult females and their young live together in a pod, and juveniles in a mixed pod. Several of these pods can join together to form larger groups of 100 dolphins or more. These groups can occasionally exceed 1000 dolphins. Males live mostly alone or in groups of 2-3 and join the pods for short periods of time.
Bottlenose dolphins studied by researchers of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI off the island of Sardinia show non-random social behaviour during feeding activities and their social behaviour differs depending on the feeding activity in which they are engaged. In Sardinia, the presence of a floating marine fin-fish farm has been linked to a change in bottlenose dolphin distribution as a result of high fish density around the floating cages in the farming area.
The species sometimes shows curiosity towards humans in or near water. Occasionally, bottlenose dolphins have rescued injured divers by raising them to the surface. This is similar to behaviour they show towards injured members of their own species. In November 2004, a more dramatic report of dolphin intervention came from New Zealand. Four lifeguards, swimming 100 m (328 ft) off the coast near Whangarei, were approached by a shark (reportedly a Great White Shark). A group of bottlenose dolphins, most likely sensing danger to the swimmers, herded them together and tightly surrounded them for forty minutes, preventing an attack from the shark, as they returned to shore.
Dolphins have also been documented exhibiting altruistic behaviour toward other sea creatures. On Mahia Beach, New Zealand on March 10, 2008 two Pygmy Sperm Whales — a female and calf — became stranded on the beach. Rescuers, including Department of Conservation officer Malcolm Smith, attempted to refloat the whales, however their efforts failed four times. Shortly before the whales were to be euthanized a playful bottlenose dolphin known to local residents as Moko arrived and, after seemingly communicating with the whales, led them 200 meters along a sandbar to the open sea.
The bottlenose dolphin is a predator however, and it also often shows aggressive behaviour. This includes fights among males for rank and access to females, as well as aggression towards sharks, certain Orcas, and other smaller species of dolphins. During the mating season male dolphins compete vigorously with each other through displays of toughness and size with a series of acts such as head-butting. At least one population, off Scotland, has been observed to practice infanticide, and has also been filmed attacking and killing Harbour Porpoises. Researchers at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland have discovered that the local bottlenose dolphins attack and kill Harbour Porpoises without eating them due to competition for a decreasing food supply.
The bottlenose dolphin sometimes forms mixed species groups with certain other species from the dolphin family, particularly larger species such as the Short-finned Pilot Whale, the False Killer Whale and Risso's Dolphin. Interactions with smaller species, such as the Atlantic Spotted Dolphin and the Rough-toothed Dolphin, also occur in wild. While interactions with smaller species are sometimes afffiliative, they can also be aggressive.
Diet:
The bottlenose dolphin's diet consists mainly of small fish and squid.
Communication & Sense:
The dolphin's search for food is aided by a form of echolocation similar to sonar: they locate objects by producing sounds and listening for the echo. A broadband burst pulse of clicking sounds is emitted in a focused beam in front of the dolphin. To hear the returning echo they have two small ear openings behind the eyes but most sound waves are transmitted to the inner ear through the lower jaw. As the object of interest is approached the echo grows louder, and the dolphins adjust by decreasing the intensity of the emitted sounds. (This is in contrast to the technique used by bat echolocation and artificial sonar where the sensitivity of the sound receptor is attenuated.) As the animal approaches the target the interclick interval also decreases, as each click is usually produced after the round-trip travel time of the previous click is completed. Details of the dolphin's echolocation, such as signal strength, spectral qualities, and discrimination abilities have been well-investigated by researchers. Bottlenose dolphins are able to extract shape information from their echolocative sense, suggesting that they are able to form an "echoic image" of their targets.
Dolphins also have sharp eyesight. The eyes are located at the sides of the head and have a tapetum lucidum, or reflecting membrane at the back of the retina, which aids vision in dim light. Their horseshoe-shaped double-slit pupil enables the dolphin to have good vision both in air and underwater, despite the different densities of these media. When underwater the eyeball's lens serves to focus light, whereas in the in-air environment the typically bright light serves to contract the specialized pupil, resulting in sharpness from a smaller aperture (similar to a pinhole camera).
By contrast their sense of smell is poor, as would be expected since the blowhole, the analogue to the nose, is closed in the underwater environment, and opens only voluntarily for breathing. The olfactory nerves as well as the olfactory lobe in the brain are missing. Bottlenose dolphins are able to detect salty, sweet, bitter (quinine sulphate), and sour (citric acid) tastes, but this has not been well-studied. Anecdotally, some animals in captivity have been noted to have preferences for food fish types although it is not clear that this preference is mediated by taste.
Bottlenose dolphins communicate with one another through squeaks, whistles, and body language. Examples of body language include leaping out of the water, snapping jaws, slapping tails on the surface of the water, and butting heads with one another. All of these gestures are a way for the dolphins to convey messages. The sounds and gestures that bottlenose dolphins produce help keep track of other dolphins in the group and alert other dolphins to possible dangers and nearby food. They produce sounds using six air sacs near their blow hole (they lack vocal cords). Each animal has a characteristic frequency-modulated narrow-band signature vocalization (signature whistle) which is uniquely identifying. Other communication uses about 30 distinguishable sounds, and although famously proposed by John Lilly in the 1950s, a "dolphin language" has not been found. However, Herman, Richards, & Wolz demonstrated the comprehension of an artificial language by two bottlenose dolphins (named Akeakamai and Phoenix) in the period of skepticism toward animal language following Herbert Terrace's critique.
Intelligence/cognition:
Cognitive abilities investigated in the dolphin include concept formation, sensory skills, and the use of mental representation of dolphins. Such research has been ongoing from the 1970s. This includes:
* acoustic and behavioral mimicry
* comprehension of novel sequences in an artificial language
* memory
* monitoring of self behaviors
* discrimination and matching
* comprehension of symbols for various body parts
* comprehension of the pointing gesture and gaze (as made by dolphins or humans)
* mirror self-recognition
Recent research has shown that bottlenose dolphins are capable of comprehending numerical values. In an experiment where a dolphin was shown two panels with a various number of dots of different size and position, the dolphin was able to touch the panel with a greater number of dots.
Interaction with humans:
Dolphins have been made to collaborate with humans for a wide variety of commercial and military means throughout the 20th and 21st century. They have also grown to voluntarily interact with humans in the wild. A common instance if such collaboration is playing with surfers near the beach.
In the town of Laguna in south Brazil, a pod of bottlenose dolphins is known to drive fish towards fishermen who stand at the beach in shallow waters. One dolphin will then roll over, which the fishermen take as a sign to throw out their nets. The dolphins feed on the escaping fish. The dolphins were not trained for this behaviour; the collaboration has been going on at least since 1847. Similar cooperative fisheries also exist in Mauritania, Africa.
In the military (actually interesting):
http://www.spawar.navy.mil/sandiego/technology/mammals/mine_hunting.html
Comment by marschj (05/18/09 23:07:16):
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/04/090408-dolphin-speak-video-ap.html
Comment by marschj (05/18/09 23:06:07):
http://www.thewildclassroom.com/cetaceans/dolphinwhaleecholocation.html
Bruce Nollman Chapter 10
By Michael Martinez (06/07/10 16:34:07)
I found this chapter to be a little bit odd. Esepcialy the begining where Nollman seems to be mixing Science, Religion, and the philosophies of primary reception all together. I had little success in figuring out what the overall purpose was of sewing together all these seemingly contradictory theories. What i could gather best is that they somehow all work simultaneously and dictate human and animal interaction
After talking about these concepts Nollman talked about a his interactions with dolphins and his attempts foster a healthy human and dolphin community. He talked about how that dolphins and humans are just different sides of the evolutionary coin. I as intrigued by this. And the quote that stated dolphins to be ambassadors also intrigued me because he noted there general demeanor to humans.
This chapter was kind of a hard read. I wasn't sure what Nollman was going for. The first half is science more philosophy based while the second half is an account of his interactions. I wasn't sure if Nollman was condemning or supporting the heavily science based treatment of animals in favor of more intuitive emotion based approaches.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Martinez (06/07/10 16:34:07)
I found this chapter to be a little bit odd. Esepcialy the begining where Nollman seems to be mixing Science, Religion, and the philosophies of primary reception all together. I had little success in figuring out what the overall purpose was of sewing together all these seemingly contradictory theories. What i could gather best is that they somehow all work simultaneously and dictate human and animal interaction
After talking about these concepts Nollman talked about a his interactions with dolphins and his attempts foster a healthy human and dolphin community. He talked about how that dolphins and humans are just different sides of the evolutionary coin. I as intrigued by this. And the quote that stated dolphins to be ambassadors also intrigued me because he noted there general demeanor to humans.
This chapter was kind of a hard read. I wasn't sure what Nollman was going for. The first half is science more philosophy based while the second half is an account of his interactions. I wasn't sure if Nollman was condemning or supporting the heavily science based treatment of animals in favor of more intuitive emotion based approaches.
[Write Comment]
Brush Rabbit Research
By Stephanie Vasquez (05/18/09 18:41:34)
Related animal: Rabbit
*Physical Description:
It is smaller than other cottontail rabbits. Their tail underside tends to be grey instead of white. Fur color varies from light brown to grey. Adult brush rabbits grow to be about 10-14 inches long. Weight is about 2 lbs.
*Senses:
They rely strongly on scent, not sound, for communication. When frightened, they may let out loud calls (or "squeals"). Specific alarm calls have been identified in some rabbits.
*Behavior:
Tend to be very timid when leaving their brush cover and rarely tread on large, open spaces. When they do approach any open areas, they may remain motionless for some time to watch for any danger. When they sense they are in danger, they may run in a zig-zag pattern until they reach protection from brush cover. Most of them are solitary and independent, and do not get very close to each other unless they are mating, or feeding their young. They typically have a comfort zone of about 1-24 ft away from one another.
*Food:
Feeds mainly on grasses and sometimes berries.
*Predators:
- Coyote
- Grey Fox
- Owl
- Crow
- Snakes
- Cougar
- Bobcat
*Other Facts:
- Although their life expectancy may reach up to 8 years, they only live for about 1 year on average.
- It often lies in the sun in the morning, particularly following heavy rain or fog, also on sunny afternoons after morning rain.
*Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brush_Rabbit
http://wildlife1.wildlifeinformation.org/S/0MLagomorph/Leporidae/Sylvilagus/Sylvilagus_bachmani.html
[Write Comment]
By Stephanie Vasquez (05/18/09 18:41:34)
Related animal: Rabbit
*Physical Description:
It is smaller than other cottontail rabbits. Their tail underside tends to be grey instead of white. Fur color varies from light brown to grey. Adult brush rabbits grow to be about 10-14 inches long. Weight is about 2 lbs.
*Senses:
They rely strongly on scent, not sound, for communication. When frightened, they may let out loud calls (or "squeals"). Specific alarm calls have been identified in some rabbits.
*Behavior:
Tend to be very timid when leaving their brush cover and rarely tread on large, open spaces. When they do approach any open areas, they may remain motionless for some time to watch for any danger. When they sense they are in danger, they may run in a zig-zag pattern until they reach protection from brush cover. Most of them are solitary and independent, and do not get very close to each other unless they are mating, or feeding their young. They typically have a comfort zone of about 1-24 ft away from one another.
*Food:
Feeds mainly on grasses and sometimes berries.
*Predators:
- Coyote
- Grey Fox
- Owl
- Crow
- Snakes
- Cougar
- Bobcat
*Other Facts:
- Although their life expectancy may reach up to 8 years, they only live for about 1 year on average.
- It often lies in the sun in the morning, particularly following heavy rain or fog, also on sunny afternoons after morning rain.
*Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brush_Rabbit
http://wildlife1.wildlifeinformation.org/S/0MLagomorph/Leporidae/Sylvilagus/Sylvilagus_bachmani.html
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California Ground Squirrel, Spermophilus beecheyi: Preliminary Research
By Masha Lifshin (04/30/09 08:26:40)
Related animal: Ground Squirrel
This species of ground squirrel is in the suslik genus, and shares a family with marmots and prairie dogs. The ground squirrels live in holes they burrow through the ground, sometimes singly and sometimes communally, over generations. The tunnels are 4-5 inches in diameter and can be hundreds of feet in length with tens of openings. Squirrels spend most of their lives within 150 feet of the burrows. Ground squirrels enjoy sun bathing, dust bathing, and grooming as well as the vigilant standing position they are well known for.
It is fascinating that ground squirrels are the first and only animal we know about, as of August, 2007, that communicates by infrared. They do this as part of their ongoing, surprisingly fierce defense against snakes, with whom they have co-evolved in California for at least 10-12 million years. When rattlesnakes evolved venom, the ground squirrels evolved anti-venom in the form of a blood protein present in adults. Ground squirrel pups, however, are vulnerable, so the mother chews on shed rattlesnake skins to transfer the scent to herself and her pups by licking. Studies show that this practice decreases the likelihood of detection by rattlesnakes. Ground squirrels also confront snakes, will throw dirt and debris, and can bite and swipe at snakes' tails. Despite all this, studies have suggested that a rattlesnake diet is 70% ground squirrel pup. Burrowing owls are also entertwined in an ecological relationship with ground squirrels and rattlesnakes. Burrowing owls, who actually don't burrow but depend on ground squirrel holes for shelter, imitate the sound of a rattlesnake to scare ground squirrels and other threats away from the appropriated holes. It is one of the few examples of an auditory imitation of a dangerous/venomous animal.
A potential avenue for collaboration with ground squirrels is their prolific digging behavior, which could allow for a collaborative earth works piece. Another the potential for built environments suited to their particular sunning and bathing behaviors. Also, squirrels communicate with each other through vocalizations, so sound and auditory projects are a possibility. And of course it would be exciting to attempt to communicate with the squirrels by infrared. In general, the research into their behavior with rattlesnakes suggests that ground squirrels are fearless, even risk takers, and have the potential to be dynamic collaborators.
=========================================================
Wikipedia
=========================================================
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground_squirrel
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Ground_Squirrel
Articles
=========================================================
Squirrel Has Hot Tail To Tell Snakes: Its Infrared Glow Keeps Rattlesnakes Away
http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=squirrel-hot-tail-tell-snakes&ref=rss
Smelly Squirrels Fool Hungry Snakes
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn9784
The Best of Enemies
http://www.ecologycenter.org/terrain/article.php?id=13335
California Ground Squirrel Info
http://www.etc-etc.com/sqrlinfo.htm
(A curiosity) First Western zoological identification of 'Beechey's Marmot'
http://books.google.com/books?id=NzxkAAAAMAAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=Fauna+boreali-americana%3B+or+the+zoology+of+the+northern+parts+of+British+America&ei=d9VkSdyEKJeOMqSJneMI&client=firefox-a#PPA170,M1
Video Resources
=========================================================
Ground Squirrels Repel Gopher Snake
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgQVppAwrlE
Ground Squirre Stock Footage
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plRHua6BFLY&feature=related
The Living Desert (1953), Round Tailed Ground Squirrel Edition
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIPJka4iOv0
[Write Comment]
By Masha Lifshin (04/30/09 08:26:40)
Related animal: Ground Squirrel
This species of ground squirrel is in the suslik genus, and shares a family with marmots and prairie dogs. The ground squirrels live in holes they burrow through the ground, sometimes singly and sometimes communally, over generations. The tunnels are 4-5 inches in diameter and can be hundreds of feet in length with tens of openings. Squirrels spend most of their lives within 150 feet of the burrows. Ground squirrels enjoy sun bathing, dust bathing, and grooming as well as the vigilant standing position they are well known for.
It is fascinating that ground squirrels are the first and only animal we know about, as of August, 2007, that communicates by infrared. They do this as part of their ongoing, surprisingly fierce defense against snakes, with whom they have co-evolved in California for at least 10-12 million years. When rattlesnakes evolved venom, the ground squirrels evolved anti-venom in the form of a blood protein present in adults. Ground squirrel pups, however, are vulnerable, so the mother chews on shed rattlesnake skins to transfer the scent to herself and her pups by licking. Studies show that this practice decreases the likelihood of detection by rattlesnakes. Ground squirrels also confront snakes, will throw dirt and debris, and can bite and swipe at snakes' tails. Despite all this, studies have suggested that a rattlesnake diet is 70% ground squirrel pup. Burrowing owls are also entertwined in an ecological relationship with ground squirrels and rattlesnakes. Burrowing owls, who actually don't burrow but depend on ground squirrel holes for shelter, imitate the sound of a rattlesnake to scare ground squirrels and other threats away from the appropriated holes. It is one of the few examples of an auditory imitation of a dangerous/venomous animal.
A potential avenue for collaboration with ground squirrels is their prolific digging behavior, which could allow for a collaborative earth works piece. Another the potential for built environments suited to their particular sunning and bathing behaviors. Also, squirrels communicate with each other through vocalizations, so sound and auditory projects are a possibility. And of course it would be exciting to attempt to communicate with the squirrels by infrared. In general, the research into their behavior with rattlesnakes suggests that ground squirrels are fearless, even risk takers, and have the potential to be dynamic collaborators.
=========================================================
Wikipedia
=========================================================
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground_squirrel
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Ground_Squirrel
Articles
=========================================================
Squirrel Has Hot Tail To Tell Snakes: Its Infrared Glow Keeps Rattlesnakes Away
http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=squirrel-hot-tail-tell-snakes&ref=rss
Smelly Squirrels Fool Hungry Snakes
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn9784
The Best of Enemies
http://www.ecologycenter.org/terrain/article.php?id=13335
California Ground Squirrel Info
http://www.etc-etc.com/sqrlinfo.htm
(A curiosity) First Western zoological identification of 'Beechey's Marmot'
http://books.google.com/books?id=NzxkAAAAMAAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=Fauna+boreali-americana%3B+or+the+zoology+of+the+northern+parts+of+British+America&ei=d9VkSdyEKJeOMqSJneMI&client=firefox-a#PPA170,M1
Video Resources
=========================================================
Ground Squirrels Repel Gopher Snake
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgQVppAwrlE
Ground Squirre Stock Footage
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plRHua6BFLY&feature=related
The Living Desert (1953), Round Tailed Ground Squirrel Edition
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIPJka4iOv0
[Write Comment]
Story: Interspecies Relationships
Can't stop seeing the ducks
By Mark Linggi (06/03/10 17:37:49)
Related animal: Mallard Duck
So after my first encounter with the ducks after a long time, I know can't stop seeing them. On the same day that I reencountered the ducks, I was walking towards campus to the art studio. On my way, I crossed the grass in front of the Student Health Center. Lo and behold the duck couple was there. My friend, Micky, started to walk closer to the ducks, but I told him that they like their distance and that they really don't like to be disturbed too much. Of course, as he got closer to them, they both stood up and walked away. Its interesting to notice that when you have food, they ducks don't seem nearly as afraid of you when you don't have food. Its interesting to think about how it is the same person, but the need and want for food just pushes the ducks to be that much more interactive with us. Its the reason why squirrels in Yosemite are so friendly. I remember when I hiked up in Yosemite, to Twin Falls (I think thats the name), there were so many squirrels getting so close to everyone. They became so accustomed to humans giving them food that the need and desire for food outweighed the initial fear of us. Its funny how getting food easily can cloud the danger of a potential life threat.
[Write Comment]
By Mark Linggi (06/03/10 17:37:49)
Related animal: Mallard Duck
So after my first encounter with the ducks after a long time, I know can't stop seeing them. On the same day that I reencountered the ducks, I was walking towards campus to the art studio. On my way, I crossed the grass in front of the Student Health Center. Lo and behold the duck couple was there. My friend, Micky, started to walk closer to the ducks, but I told him that they like their distance and that they really don't like to be disturbed too much. Of course, as he got closer to them, they both stood up and walked away. Its interesting to notice that when you have food, they ducks don't seem nearly as afraid of you when you don't have food. Its interesting to think about how it is the same person, but the need and want for food just pushes the ducks to be that much more interactive with us. Its the reason why squirrels in Yosemite are so friendly. I remember when I hiked up in Yosemite, to Twin Falls (I think thats the name), there were so many squirrels getting so close to everyone. They became so accustomed to humans giving them food that the need and desire for food outweighed the initial fear of us. Its funny how getting food easily can cloud the danger of a potential life threat.
[Write Comment]
Story: Animal Play Behavior
Catalina
By Jessica Oropesa (06/09/10 00:23:29)
The first time I ever saw wild dolphins was in April, when my family and I went on a trip to Catalina Island. We drove to the pier, then from the pier we got on a boat and headed out into the ocean. As we were sitting in the boat, staring at the sea, my sister exclaimed, "A DOLPHIN!!" and our captain slowed the boat down and announced that we were near a pod of dolphins. He continued to drive the boat and made a gigantic circle with the boat and the dolphins raced in the water in the wakes that the boat had made. This was my first ever encounter with wild dolphins and it was spectacular to me. Little did I know how much this past dolphin trip with this class would surpass the first time.
[Write Comment]
By Jessica Oropesa (06/09/10 00:23:29)
The first time I ever saw wild dolphins was in April, when my family and I went on a trip to Catalina Island. We drove to the pier, then from the pier we got on a boat and headed out into the ocean. As we were sitting in the boat, staring at the sea, my sister exclaimed, "A DOLPHIN!!" and our captain slowed the boat down and announced that we were near a pod of dolphins. He continued to drive the boat and made a gigantic circle with the boat and the dolphins raced in the water in the wakes that the boat had made. This was my first ever encounter with wild dolphins and it was spectacular to me. Little did I know how much this past dolphin trip with this class would surpass the first time.
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How To: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
catopia
By Lillian Shanahan (06/07/10 08:55:27)
Related animal: Cat
after I had made several drawings with the cat by marking the places she would swat at.
first I started by pretending to draw the cat which would make her curious and walk over to check out what I was doing.
then i would mark where her paws went. I did several of these until she got bored and walked away. distracted by her stuffed mouse in the corner.
i wanted then to put more of myself into the piece because the cat got to choose where the ink went so I collaged his marks into more of a picture. And i called it Catopia because it reminds me of some cat Mesopotamia.
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (06/07/10 08:55:27)
Related animal: Cat
after I had made several drawings with the cat by marking the places she would swat at.
first I started by pretending to draw the cat which would make her curious and walk over to check out what I was doing.
then i would mark where her paws went. I did several of these until she got bored and walked away. distracted by her stuffed mouse in the corner.
i wanted then to put more of myself into the piece because the cat got to choose where the ink went so I collaged his marks into more of a picture. And i called it Catopia because it reminds me of some cat Mesopotamia.
[Write Comment]
cats in laps
By Lillian Shanahan (06/07/10 09:02:57)
Related animal: Cat
cats in laps turned out pretty well I think. Some of the drawings i had to improvise on the fur because the cat wouldn't stay for long. But then I figure its just like what I did with the Catopia picture.
the cat provided me the basic shape and outline and then I finished it off on my own.
the legs in the drawing were much more easier to draw. its a good thing human beings like to be glued to their tv sets.
the colors I choose were suppose to make the cats look lively.
because these cats were pretty lively. every one except the cat in the corner, its also the one sprawled out on some ones knee. he was a very easy going cat.
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (06/07/10 09:02:57)
Related animal: Cat
cats in laps turned out pretty well I think. Some of the drawings i had to improvise on the fur because the cat wouldn't stay for long. But then I figure its just like what I did with the Catopia picture.
the cat provided me the basic shape and outline and then I finished it off on my own.
the legs in the drawing were much more easier to draw. its a good thing human beings like to be glued to their tv sets.
the colors I choose were suppose to make the cats look lively.
because these cats were pretty lively. every one except the cat in the corner, its also the one sprawled out on some ones knee. he was a very easy going cat.
[Write Comment]
Other: Interspecies Relationships
Cats of IV
By Madison Wanamaker (04/21/13 19:23:19)
Related animals: Cat, Human
Since the beginning of the course I have tried to be more aware of the animals I meet each day. In doing so I have recently noticed that there is an ever growing number of cats that come by my house. I don't know if it is some kind of underground cat hang out or what, but the lives and travels of these cats become more and more interesting if you stop and take notice. At first it was just the orange cat, known as Orange Kitty, who later wore a collar bearing the name Adonus. Orange Kitty was always at the house and let everyone pet him. It was because of him that we started buying cat food and leaving water bowls out. Orange Kitty's arch rival is Sparkle Glitter Pants. Sparkle Glitter Pants is your typical princess cat, white and fluffy. The two hiss and fight every time they see one another. After a month or so of living here I meet the BBC or Baby Black Cat. The BBC is shy and almost never sits or lays down inside, she just eats and leaves... typical. There is another bigger black cat but we almost never see her and if we do we confuse it fir the BBC.
About a month ago we meet Cheeseburger. Cheeseburger is an obese calico who has adopted us. She loves being pet and hasn't really left since the first day she came over. Sometimes she sleeps in my room, it is so nice to have a cuddly cat around! I have formed the closest relationship with Cheeseburger. There is also Cheese Cake, a fluffy and less portly calico who also goes by Sparkle Burger because she looks like Sparkle Glitter Pant's and Cheeseburger's baby.
So all together there are 6 cats coming to eat and hang out at my house; Orange Kitty, Sparkle Glitter Pants, Baby Black Cat, Big Black Cat, Cheeseburger, and Cheesecake. I am really glad that there are cats around because I enjoy their company, but sometimes I worry that they might be at risk of being hit by a car or bothered by drunk people. So far all the cats seem happy to be free to roam. I am going to begin tracking the schedules of the cats to see if they come by at similar times each day, and if they have relationships with one another.
[Write Comment]
Comment by caitling (06/09/13 23:00:48):
I love that you also have a relationship with the cats in Isla Vista, I also get visits from Cheesecake but she only comes in the house when Bubba isn't around because Bubba will try to fight them. It is difficult to tell if he is trying to fight or play with them, I think it usually starts out as playing but then he ends up getting too aggressive and then she runs away. The cats must know each other and have a relationship I have seen my cat play with the other ones, I bet they go on adventures together around Isla Vista. I have never see the BBC but she does look similar to m cat bubba. I appreciate that you leave food out for the cats, sometime I worry when I leave Bubba out over night but its comforting to know that he has food and water.
By Madison Wanamaker (04/21/13 19:23:19)
Related animals: Cat, Human
Since the beginning of the course I have tried to be more aware of the animals I meet each day. In doing so I have recently noticed that there is an ever growing number of cats that come by my house. I don't know if it is some kind of underground cat hang out or what, but the lives and travels of these cats become more and more interesting if you stop and take notice. At first it was just the orange cat, known as Orange Kitty, who later wore a collar bearing the name Adonus. Orange Kitty was always at the house and let everyone pet him. It was because of him that we started buying cat food and leaving water bowls out. Orange Kitty's arch rival is Sparkle Glitter Pants. Sparkle Glitter Pants is your typical princess cat, white and fluffy. The two hiss and fight every time they see one another. After a month or so of living here I meet the BBC or Baby Black Cat. The BBC is shy and almost never sits or lays down inside, she just eats and leaves... typical. There is another bigger black cat but we almost never see her and if we do we confuse it fir the BBC.
About a month ago we meet Cheeseburger. Cheeseburger is an obese calico who has adopted us. She loves being pet and hasn't really left since the first day she came over. Sometimes she sleeps in my room, it is so nice to have a cuddly cat around! I have formed the closest relationship with Cheeseburger. There is also Cheese Cake, a fluffy and less portly calico who also goes by Sparkle Burger because she looks like Sparkle Glitter Pant's and Cheeseburger's baby.
So all together there are 6 cats coming to eat and hang out at my house; Orange Kitty, Sparkle Glitter Pants, Baby Black Cat, Big Black Cat, Cheeseburger, and Cheesecake. I am really glad that there are cats around because I enjoy their company, but sometimes I worry that they might be at risk of being hit by a car or bothered by drunk people. So far all the cats seem happy to be free to roam. I am going to begin tracking the schedules of the cats to see if they come by at similar times each day, and if they have relationships with one another.
Cheese Cake/ Sparkle Burger | 
The BBC |
Cheeseburger | 
Orange Kitty |
Comment by caitling (06/09/13 23:00:48):
I love that you also have a relationship with the cats in Isla Vista, I also get visits from Cheesecake but she only comes in the house when Bubba isn't around because Bubba will try to fight them. It is difficult to tell if he is trying to fight or play with them, I think it usually starts out as playing but then he ends up getting too aggressive and then she runs away. The cats must know each other and have a relationship I have seen my cat play with the other ones, I bet they go on adventures together around Isla Vista. I have never see the BBC but she does look similar to m cat bubba. I appreciate that you leave food out for the cats, sometime I worry when I leave Bubba out over night but its comforting to know that he has food and water.
Other: Other Related Research
Cats of IV Continued
By Madison Wanamaker (04/29/13 00:53:40)
Related animals: Cat, Human
Continuing with my earlier research recording the local cats of Isla Vista, I have begun to photograph and record the time and day each cat comes to the house. Previously I had identified 6 cats who frequent the house in Isla Vista- Orange Kitty, Sparkle Glitter Pants, Baby Black Cat, Big Black Cat, Cheeseburger, and Cheesecake. Of the 6 I had photographs of 2, but was lucky enough to get to spend time with BBC on Friday and snapped some pictures.
BBC, like many of the other cats I have met here, is extremely wary of his/her surroundings. The majority of cats I personally have known exuded confidence around people. Maybe these house cats had never experienced life threatening situations, maybe they had no reason to distrust us. Either way a majority of the cats I have meet in Isla Vista appear to distrust humans, and I imagine it stems from a traumatic relationship with the rambunctious locals.
In an effort to try and "map" the physical and social goings-ons of the cat world of Isla Vista I will continue to photograph my encounters with local cats and record their relationships to the house and to each other.
[Write Comment]
By Madison Wanamaker (04/29/13 00:53:40)
Related animals: Cat, Human
Continuing with my earlier research recording the local cats of Isla Vista, I have begun to photograph and record the time and day each cat comes to the house. Previously I had identified 6 cats who frequent the house in Isla Vista- Orange Kitty, Sparkle Glitter Pants, Baby Black Cat, Big Black Cat, Cheeseburger, and Cheesecake. Of the 6 I had photographs of 2, but was lucky enough to get to spend time with BBC on Friday and snapped some pictures.
BBC, like many of the other cats I have met here, is extremely wary of his/her surroundings. The majority of cats I personally have known exuded confidence around people. Maybe these house cats had never experienced life threatening situations, maybe they had no reason to distrust us. Either way a majority of the cats I have meet in Isla Vista appear to distrust humans, and I imagine it stems from a traumatic relationship with the rambunctious locals.
In an effort to try and "map" the physical and social goings-ons of the cat world of Isla Vista I will continue to photograph my encounters with local cats and record their relationships to the house and to each other.
BBC |
Cats of IV Continued (2)
By Madison Wanamaker (05/28/13 19:05:05)
Related animal: Cat
A very dramatic scene unfurled in Isla Vista this week. The cats settled year-long boarder disputes, and treaties were signed. At approximately 8:00 AM Saturday morning May 25th Sparkle Glitter Pants, Cheese Burger, and Cheese Cake fought over the backyard. Though the fight consisted mostly of hisses, low-pitched guttural noises, and scary angry cat poses, it was still very dramatic and enough to wake up many members of the house.
I awoke to a serious hiss that sounded like "FINISH HIM!!!" * answered by a loud roar-type-meow. I ran to the living room where two glass doors look out on the battlefield. What I saw was unlike anything I have ever seen... three cats in attack position, two outside and one in the living room. It is funny how we forget that we live with wild animals not to different from lions and tigers. I tried to take as many pictures as I could but the illusive Sparkle Glitter Pants ran when she caught sight of me.
Luckily no animals were injured in this soap opera type girl fight, the only question now is, is it over? And if so, who has won?
* "FINISH HIM!!!" reference from Fatality Mortal Combat
[Write Comment]
By Madison Wanamaker (05/28/13 19:05:05)
Related animal: Cat
A very dramatic scene unfurled in Isla Vista this week. The cats settled year-long boarder disputes, and treaties were signed. At approximately 8:00 AM Saturday morning May 25th Sparkle Glitter Pants, Cheese Burger, and Cheese Cake fought over the backyard. Though the fight consisted mostly of hisses, low-pitched guttural noises, and scary angry cat poses, it was still very dramatic and enough to wake up many members of the house.
I awoke to a serious hiss that sounded like "FINISH HIM!!!" * answered by a loud roar-type-meow. I ran to the living room where two glass doors look out on the battlefield. What I saw was unlike anything I have ever seen... three cats in attack position, two outside and one in the living room. It is funny how we forget that we live with wild animals not to different from lions and tigers. I tried to take as many pictures as I could but the illusive Sparkle Glitter Pants ran when she caught sight of me.
Luckily no animals were injured in this soap opera type girl fight, the only question now is, is it over? And if so, who has won?
* "FINISH HIM!!!" reference from Fatality Mortal Combat
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How To: Other Related Research
Ch. 1 and 4
By Hilary Elizabeth MacDonald (04/07/10 19:12:00)
Chapter one:
The first chapter in The Man Who Talks to Whales by Jim Nollman. We learn about his love for animals. It starts at a young age with snakes and deer etc. The opening story introduces the audience to Jim’s musical encounters with a neighboring turkey. This story was interesting because almost every human has a funny endearing story that involves a curious animal. Jim is easy to relate to in this sense. Also, it was good to hear that Jim’s first love is music and his second animals so easily collaborate. It gives hope to us artists that an animal will work with us in the same way. Its all abut experimenting and trying new things that keep the artists happy and the animals intrigued. This book is a easy read because Jim is charming in his delivery of the information.
Chapter four:
The second Chapter is more species specific starting with the lions and the bushman. It was recorded that lions would be close to the camp fires and some nights the bushman would have enough of the lions roaring and had techniques of convincing the lions to quiet down. Next there were the clownfish and anemone symbiotic relationship. The clownfish use the anemone as protection and the anemones eat the predators that chase the clownfish. This chapter is introducing more of the science behind some animal behaviors. Collaborations in animals and in humans take a lot of mutual respect and mutual trust.
[Write Comment]
By Hilary Elizabeth MacDonald (04/07/10 19:12:00)
Chapter one:
The first chapter in The Man Who Talks to Whales by Jim Nollman. We learn about his love for animals. It starts at a young age with snakes and deer etc. The opening story introduces the audience to Jim’s musical encounters with a neighboring turkey. This story was interesting because almost every human has a funny endearing story that involves a curious animal. Jim is easy to relate to in this sense. Also, it was good to hear that Jim’s first love is music and his second animals so easily collaborate. It gives hope to us artists that an animal will work with us in the same way. Its all abut experimenting and trying new things that keep the artists happy and the animals intrigued. This book is a easy read because Jim is charming in his delivery of the information.
Chapter four:
The second Chapter is more species specific starting with the lions and the bushman. It was recorded that lions would be close to the camp fires and some nights the bushman would have enough of the lions roaring and had techniques of convincing the lions to quiet down. Next there were the clownfish and anemone symbiotic relationship. The clownfish use the anemone as protection and the anemones eat the predators that chase the clownfish. This chapter is introducing more of the science behind some animal behaviors. Collaborations in animals and in humans take a lot of mutual respect and mutual trust.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
ch. 10
By Hilary Elizabeth MacDonald (05/11/10 20:20:16)
Related animal: Dolphin
His opening lines in chapter 10 got me thinking. Of course animals are concerned with us, I wonder what they think when a strange animal wearing all kinds of colors and hair growing from certain spots comes walking towards them. He talks about co-evolution. These dolphins (in general) are forced to live with us in many situations so I don’t see a positive to this co-evolving. He begins talking about One Nature, we are all unconsciously connected…..I’m sill not sure about this statement but perhaps. He suggests we keep inside are own mind, through meditation exercise and other physical and spiritual acts. He believes that the dolphins could sever as a guide through a conscious journey. Dolphins are very similar to humans so what better source if information then the wild dolphins that Jim and his wife followed. I like that Jim does not force interaction on these beautiful creatures, he waits for them to come to him. SUCCESS! Jim gets the 3 dolphins to dance around his boat but really listening and experimenting to find the right tones for them. Jims explanation of the best teacher. …”the greatest teacher demonstrates for you your own true nature”
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Hilary Elizabeth MacDonald (05/11/10 20:20:16)
Related animal: Dolphin
His opening lines in chapter 10 got me thinking. Of course animals are concerned with us, I wonder what they think when a strange animal wearing all kinds of colors and hair growing from certain spots comes walking towards them. He talks about co-evolution. These dolphins (in general) are forced to live with us in many situations so I don’t see a positive to this co-evolving. He begins talking about One Nature, we are all unconsciously connected…..I’m sill not sure about this statement but perhaps. He suggests we keep inside are own mind, through meditation exercise and other physical and spiritual acts. He believes that the dolphins could sever as a guide through a conscious journey. Dolphins are very similar to humans so what better source if information then the wild dolphins that Jim and his wife followed. I like that Jim does not force interaction on these beautiful creatures, he waits for them to come to him. SUCCESS! Jim gets the 3 dolphins to dance around his boat but really listening and experimenting to find the right tones for them. Jims explanation of the best teacher. …”the greatest teacher demonstrates for you your own true nature”
Ch.1
By Sean Turner (04/22/10 06:15:51)
In the first chapter of The Man Who Talks to Whales, Nollman describes his affinity for animals and music. He believes that humans need to further develop our relationship with other animals. We must see them as more that just specimens in a science experiment, and not only learn about them, but learn from them. Many humans view nature and other species as a "biological machine" devoid of emotions and feelings, defined by science. He suggests that we no longer let science alone define nature because nature is too unsystematic to be studies in such a manner. Instead, the artists and musicians of the world must reach out and develop relationships with other species. I agree with Nollman in that we must further develop our relationship with other species, and that we must learn to see them as individuals. It never occurred to me until reading this article that most of human interaction with other species is done by scientists, and I believe that this is another problem we should fix.
[Write Comment]
By Sean Turner (04/22/10 06:15:51)
In the first chapter of The Man Who Talks to Whales, Nollman describes his affinity for animals and music. He believes that humans need to further develop our relationship with other animals. We must see them as more that just specimens in a science experiment, and not only learn about them, but learn from them. Many humans view nature and other species as a "biological machine" devoid of emotions and feelings, defined by science. He suggests that we no longer let science alone define nature because nature is too unsystematic to be studies in such a manner. Instead, the artists and musicians of the world must reach out and develop relationships with other species. I agree with Nollman in that we must further develop our relationship with other species, and that we must learn to see them as individuals. It never occurred to me until reading this article that most of human interaction with other species is done by scientists, and I believe that this is another problem we should fix.
[Write Comment]
Ch.4
By Sean Turner (04/22/10 06:58:56)
Related animal: Clownfish
In this chapter Nollman discusses interspecies protocol, or the delicate relationship between two species that have learned to love and respect one another. This term is much like a social etiquette. The bushmen and the lions used to have a mutual respectful relationship. However, when the ranchers and their cattle encroached on the lions' drinking hours, they broke this bond of trust, and the lions attacked the men and their cattle. This seems like the lions are clearly communicating that the humans overstepped their boundries, and us humans need to learn from these types of encounters. These interspecies relationships are very delicate and it is important that we take care to keep them healthy. Or else, we may elicit a negative response that may carry over for generations to come. For example, the Grizzly bears are now afraid of humankind because humans have killed these great bears in the past. This eliminates any possibility of communicating with these animals. We are no longer able to get close enough to them to learn from them about the world in which we live.
[Write Comment]
By Sean Turner (04/22/10 06:58:56)
Related animal: Clownfish
In this chapter Nollman discusses interspecies protocol, or the delicate relationship between two species that have learned to love and respect one another. This term is much like a social etiquette. The bushmen and the lions used to have a mutual respectful relationship. However, when the ranchers and their cattle encroached on the lions' drinking hours, they broke this bond of trust, and the lions attacked the men and their cattle. This seems like the lions are clearly communicating that the humans overstepped their boundries, and us humans need to learn from these types of encounters. These interspecies relationships are very delicate and it is important that we take care to keep them healthy. Or else, we may elicit a negative response that may carry over for generations to come. For example, the Grizzly bears are now afraid of humankind because humans have killed these great bears in the past. This eliminates any possibility of communicating with these animals. We are no longer able to get close enough to them to learn from them about the world in which we live.
[Write Comment]
Channel Islands Trip
By Natalie Croak (06/08/13 20:34:29)
For our Channel Islands trip we had the opportunity to stay at the UC Reserve Research Station on the Nature Conservancy side of the island. As an Environmental Studies major I was beyond excited to be able to visit this area. It was my third time on Santa Cruz Island but it was definitely my favorite trip. We spent a lot of time hiking, exploring, swimming, and going to different beaches. On the third day the maintenance managers took us on a tour of the island and we got to see the diversity of habitat types that there are in such a small area. I also loved talking to the raptor researchers who were staying at the field station with us. They definitely have my dream job.
[Write Comment]
By Natalie Croak (06/08/13 20:34:29)
For our Channel Islands trip we had the opportunity to stay at the UC Reserve Research Station on the Nature Conservancy side of the island. As an Environmental Studies major I was beyond excited to be able to visit this area. It was my third time on Santa Cruz Island but it was definitely my favorite trip. We spent a lot of time hiking, exploring, swimming, and going to different beaches. On the third day the maintenance managers took us on a tour of the island and we got to see the diversity of habitat types that there are in such a small area. I also loved talking to the raptor researchers who were staying at the field station with us. They definitely have my dream job.
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exploring the island |
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giant coreopsis! |
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Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Chapter 1 and Chapter 4
By Mark Linggi (04/07/10 20:25:24)
Related animal: Whale
Chapter 1
It took me two days to read this first chapter. Not that I am a poor reader or anything, but it was through pure annoyance and frustration that I could not read past the first three pages. Its actually a funny thing really because I completely agree with almost everything mentioned within the book -- the perspective that needs to be taken on interacting with animals, the personal relationships, the mutual respect. However, it was the naive proclamations of the scientific world that drove me to stop reading before I could complete the third page.
"Instead, I was always left with bewildering impression that humans thought that animals were some kind of biological machine, devoid of emotions, intellect, and independence. And to my impressionable sixteen-year-old mind, a zoologist was a person who captured animals, or who kept animals at a zoo, or tortured them in laboratories."
Us zoologists cannot and should not be clumped into a stereotypical category. Just how you don't base things off of gender, race, or age, you should not lump all of us zoologists into the same category. We are simply not these killing "machines" that dissect animals for the pure selfish reason of benefiting our knowledge. If this statement, people like Jane Goodall, such an inspirational zoologist, is lumped into this category. Yet I know of none of her studies involving mercilessly killing chimpanzees for the personal benefit. Instead, she studied chimpanzees through observing them and brought great global conscious to our closest relative. As a scientist, she did exactly what Nollman said that zoologists do not do. Furthermore, us zoologists do not cast a degrading gaze towards our fellow species. We do not see animals as "dumb" animals. In fact, I know of no serious zoologist who has ever spoke of any animal without great sincerity and the utmost respect for them. Just today, my herpetology professor repeated a phrase that he has been saying since the beginning of class -- "As you can see amphibians and reptiles are far from primitive." I believe that us zoologists place the same value of animals as they would on any other human life.
I took great offense to what this book had to say about me and what I study. I see animals in the exact same way that he does. Like him, I wholeheartedly believe that each animal should be seen with great respect and should be seen as individuals. I not only study animals, but I also "learn from them." But to condemn scientists is not the right pursuit for the benefit of species. If I had such a demoralizing, why the hell would I want to spend my time studying something I don't respect? There are corporations who would rather have economic gain and exploitation of resources that completely destroy the animals and belittle their beings.
"If zoology were a religion, then anthropomorphism would be its mortal sin."
HA! I guess if I am a sinner in my own religion.
Chapter 4
This chapter I had nothing to argue with (aside from the false accusations against science). Like most of the book (once again, with exception of the naivety towards science) I felt as if I was reading a much better worded construction of my very own personal thoughts and beliefs. I too believe that animals should be seen at an individualistic level. I thought that the Native American tale was also a nice touch to the point that was trying to be made.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Mark Linggi (04/07/10 20:25:24)
Related animal: Whale
Chapter 1
It took me two days to read this first chapter. Not that I am a poor reader or anything, but it was through pure annoyance and frustration that I could not read past the first three pages. Its actually a funny thing really because I completely agree with almost everything mentioned within the book -- the perspective that needs to be taken on interacting with animals, the personal relationships, the mutual respect. However, it was the naive proclamations of the scientific world that drove me to stop reading before I could complete the third page.
"Instead, I was always left with bewildering impression that humans thought that animals were some kind of biological machine, devoid of emotions, intellect, and independence. And to my impressionable sixteen-year-old mind, a zoologist was a person who captured animals, or who kept animals at a zoo, or tortured them in laboratories."
Us zoologists cannot and should not be clumped into a stereotypical category. Just how you don't base things off of gender, race, or age, you should not lump all of us zoologists into the same category. We are simply not these killing "machines" that dissect animals for the pure selfish reason of benefiting our knowledge. If this statement, people like Jane Goodall, such an inspirational zoologist, is lumped into this category. Yet I know of none of her studies involving mercilessly killing chimpanzees for the personal benefit. Instead, she studied chimpanzees through observing them and brought great global conscious to our closest relative. As a scientist, she did exactly what Nollman said that zoologists do not do. Furthermore, us zoologists do not cast a degrading gaze towards our fellow species. We do not see animals as "dumb" animals. In fact, I know of no serious zoologist who has ever spoke of any animal without great sincerity and the utmost respect for them. Just today, my herpetology professor repeated a phrase that he has been saying since the beginning of class -- "As you can see amphibians and reptiles are far from primitive." I believe that us zoologists place the same value of animals as they would on any other human life.
I took great offense to what this book had to say about me and what I study. I see animals in the exact same way that he does. Like him, I wholeheartedly believe that each animal should be seen with great respect and should be seen as individuals. I not only study animals, but I also "learn from them." But to condemn scientists is not the right pursuit for the benefit of species. If I had such a demoralizing, why the hell would I want to spend my time studying something I don't respect? There are corporations who would rather have economic gain and exploitation of resources that completely destroy the animals and belittle their beings.
"If zoology were a religion, then anthropomorphism would be its mortal sin."
HA! I guess if I am a sinner in my own religion.
Chapter 4
This chapter I had nothing to argue with (aside from the false accusations against science). Like most of the book (once again, with exception of the naivety towards science) I felt as if I was reading a much better worded construction of my very own personal thoughts and beliefs. I too believe that animals should be seen at an individualistic level. I thought that the Native American tale was also a nice touch to the point that was trying to be made.
Other: Interspecies Communication
Chapter 10
By Serena Zahler (05/11/10 09:19:15)
Related animal: Dolphin
I think it is interesting that a 3rd species brought Nollman and the Dolphins to a note that fully realized their quest to interact. Both Nollman and the Dolphins mimicked the bottom fish sound as inspiration to create a sound for the two species. As Nollman explains, "Everybody---dolphins, humans, bottom fish, shamans, guitar players---everybody was playing music with everybody else" 153. "Over time this special sound developed into our main form of dolphin/guitar signaling...it was one of the very few sounds that both guitar player and dolphin could produce and hear as well" 153. "Through the random genius of the bottom fish...the humans and the dolphins had stumbled upon the fragile beginnings of a mutually acceptable musical language" 153. This 3rd party process is also recognized in my resource text on Nathan Wolfe, who found that through the seemingly un-collaborative nature of interspecies hunting, humans and animals have enabled viruses to move from non-human animals to humans. This may seem very different from the collaboration of the bottom fish to create a language for humans and dolphins, but I feel it is a similar structure just top down. Monkey + Human= Virus movement to human, Fish grunt= Dolphin + Human language.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (05/11/10 09:19:15)
Related animal: Dolphin
I think it is interesting that a 3rd species brought Nollman and the Dolphins to a note that fully realized their quest to interact. Both Nollman and the Dolphins mimicked the bottom fish sound as inspiration to create a sound for the two species. As Nollman explains, "Everybody---dolphins, humans, bottom fish, shamans, guitar players---everybody was playing music with everybody else" 153. "Over time this special sound developed into our main form of dolphin/guitar signaling...it was one of the very few sounds that both guitar player and dolphin could produce and hear as well" 153. "Through the random genius of the bottom fish...the humans and the dolphins had stumbled upon the fragile beginnings of a mutually acceptable musical language" 153. This 3rd party process is also recognized in my resource text on Nathan Wolfe, who found that through the seemingly un-collaborative nature of interspecies hunting, humans and animals have enabled viruses to move from non-human animals to humans. This may seem very different from the collaboration of the bottom fish to create a language for humans and dolphins, but I feel it is a similar structure just top down. Monkey + Human= Virus movement to human, Fish grunt= Dolphin + Human language.
Chapter 10
By Michelle Safley (05/20/10 12:44:57)
Related animal: Dolphin
The most interesting idea from chapter 10 of Nollman's book is the concept of oneness, one world, and the relation to Gaia. I recall from taking Greek Myth a few years ago the story of Gaia, how she represents the Earth and is like a mother to all living things. Since Gaia is a mother figure that was supposedly around from the beginning, her story suggests that each and every breathing creature is one of her children. If we are all her chlildren, that means there is a connection between us no matter how different we may appear to be. This is an interesting idea to consider because it means that we all should be able to communicate with each other on some level. When Nollman was successful with interacting with the dolphins and made music with and for them to respond to, he proved that though humans and dolphins are different, we can still communicate and connect, especially since we are all essentially children of the Earth.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Michelle Safley (05/20/10 12:44:57)
Related animal: Dolphin
The most interesting idea from chapter 10 of Nollman's book is the concept of oneness, one world, and the relation to Gaia. I recall from taking Greek Myth a few years ago the story of Gaia, how she represents the Earth and is like a mother to all living things. Since Gaia is a mother figure that was supposedly around from the beginning, her story suggests that each and every breathing creature is one of her children. If we are all her chlildren, that means there is a connection between us no matter how different we may appear to be. This is an interesting idea to consider because it means that we all should be able to communicate with each other on some level. When Nollman was successful with interacting with the dolphins and made music with and for them to respond to, he proved that though humans and dolphins are different, we can still communicate and connect, especially since we are all essentially children of the Earth.
Reflection: Art Made for Non-Human Animals
Chapter 10
By Mark Linggi (06/07/10 18:33:05)
Related animal: Dolphin
Chapter 10 reminds me a lot about the lecture that Jim Nollman gave. Well parts of it at least. While he was describing the sounds that he used to project underwater, I couldn't help but hear the same guitar rifts in my mind. It was as if the noises that he described in his book triggered the memory of his lecture in my mind.
I also felt bad for the dolphins caught within the tuna traps. To simply exploit technology and catch dolphins as a byproduct just cause it is easier to get the tuna is wrong. It reminds me of a book that my friend lent to me called "Eating Animals." Although I haven't completed (or really started for that matter), I have heard that the book is about the unjust happenings that are occurring within the mass consumption of meat. For example, the inhospitable conditions that chickens are under is simply monstrous. Like farm animals, if things have not changed for the accidental fishing of dolphins, I believe that things should change.
I also thought that Nollman's concept of Gaia, how we are all connected, was particularly interesting as well. I really did enjoy how he tied in the whole gene sequence into it as well, how we are all made up of the same molecular components in the end.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Mark Linggi (06/07/10 18:33:05)
Related animal: Dolphin
Chapter 10 reminds me a lot about the lecture that Jim Nollman gave. Well parts of it at least. While he was describing the sounds that he used to project underwater, I couldn't help but hear the same guitar rifts in my mind. It was as if the noises that he described in his book triggered the memory of his lecture in my mind.
I also felt bad for the dolphins caught within the tuna traps. To simply exploit technology and catch dolphins as a byproduct just cause it is easier to get the tuna is wrong. It reminds me of a book that my friend lent to me called "Eating Animals." Although I haven't completed (or really started for that matter), I have heard that the book is about the unjust happenings that are occurring within the mass consumption of meat. For example, the inhospitable conditions that chickens are under is simply monstrous. Like farm animals, if things have not changed for the accidental fishing of dolphins, I believe that things should change.
I also thought that Nollman's concept of Gaia, how we are all connected, was particularly interesting as well. I really did enjoy how he tied in the whole gene sequence into it as well, how we are all made up of the same molecular components in the end.
Chapter 10 "The Man Who Talks to Whales"
By Kirsten Howard (05/21/10 11:34:47)
“The obvious way for us to temper and control the excesses of our acculturated mind is to develop techniques that allow us to ‘step outside our minds.’...Here is the realm of morphic resonance, of unifying consciousness, of one-world community. Of natural wisdom.” (144)
This chapter of the book explains the mysteries of the world in a way that is parallel to my perception of the world. I think that Nollman did a fantastic job of trying to explain the cosmic connection that exists between all beings and all things. I particularly found the part about sound being a vibration which is in line with this connecting life force interesting, because it made me think of Hindu chants and Om, as well as how music has an ability to move people in ways that cannot be explained. There is definitely something deeper to the world than what most people perceive, however, it is something so difficult to explain, and yet, Nollman did a really great job at describing it without making it sound hocus. The quote I mentioned at the top is important to me because it refers to stepping outside the mind. I do this often through yoga and meditation, and I definitely feel a sense of oneness when I engage in these practices. It was during a yoga class that I had the revelation of understanding and feeling the vibrational connection between all life. This completely opened my eyes, as if I wasn’t awake to it before. I think that it would be fantastic if everyone engaged in these practices so that they could feel and sense the unifying force of life, because it might lead people to be more understanding of animals and nature, and less likely to destroy or try to own nature. These practices should be one of the first steps in educating people towards a better understanding and appreciation for the environment as well.
[Write Comment]
By Kirsten Howard (05/21/10 11:34:47)
“The obvious way for us to temper and control the excesses of our acculturated mind is to develop techniques that allow us to ‘step outside our minds.’...Here is the realm of morphic resonance, of unifying consciousness, of one-world community. Of natural wisdom.” (144)
This chapter of the book explains the mysteries of the world in a way that is parallel to my perception of the world. I think that Nollman did a fantastic job of trying to explain the cosmic connection that exists between all beings and all things. I particularly found the part about sound being a vibration which is in line with this connecting life force interesting, because it made me think of Hindu chants and Om, as well as how music has an ability to move people in ways that cannot be explained. There is definitely something deeper to the world than what most people perceive, however, it is something so difficult to explain, and yet, Nollman did a really great job at describing it without making it sound hocus. The quote I mentioned at the top is important to me because it refers to stepping outside the mind. I do this often through yoga and meditation, and I definitely feel a sense of oneness when I engage in these practices. It was during a yoga class that I had the revelation of understanding and feeling the vibrational connection between all life. This completely opened my eyes, as if I wasn’t awake to it before. I think that it would be fantastic if everyone engaged in these practices so that they could feel and sense the unifying force of life, because it might lead people to be more understanding of animals and nature, and less likely to destroy or try to own nature. These practices should be one of the first steps in educating people towards a better understanding and appreciation for the environment as well.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Chapter 10 of Jim Nollman's book.
By Evan Hynes (06/08/10 02:55:33)
Chapter ten of jim Nollman's book covers the topic of "oneness". He talks about Gaia, who in greek mythology represents all of earth, perhaps the original "mother earth" figure. Her story tells of how since she is the mother of all living things on this earth, then we are all intern related and have a connection. I could not agree more. Obviously Jim Nollman feels especially connected to this theory because he has been able to reach a connection to another species, despite obvious difference between him and the dolphins, the animals he connected with. He used music as a way to connect and collaborate with the dolphins, which I think is very poetic and artistic, even though many would view his actions as scientific. I find it hard to believe that so much cruelty is done to animals in this world when you consider the fact that without the animals around us, whether they be insects or dolphins, our world would not exist. I have enjoyed reading this book, and when I work on my final project, I will definitely have this idea of oneness in the back of my mind and be aware of the fact that we are all part of this world we live in.
[Write Comment]
By Evan Hynes (06/08/10 02:55:33)
Chapter ten of jim Nollman's book covers the topic of "oneness". He talks about Gaia, who in greek mythology represents all of earth, perhaps the original "mother earth" figure. Her story tells of how since she is the mother of all living things on this earth, then we are all intern related and have a connection. I could not agree more. Obviously Jim Nollman feels especially connected to this theory because he has been able to reach a connection to another species, despite obvious difference between him and the dolphins, the animals he connected with. He used music as a way to connect and collaborate with the dolphins, which I think is very poetic and artistic, even though many would view his actions as scientific. I find it hard to believe that so much cruelty is done to animals in this world when you consider the fact that without the animals around us, whether they be insects or dolphins, our world would not exist. I have enjoyed reading this book, and when I work on my final project, I will definitely have this idea of oneness in the back of my mind and be aware of the fact that we are all part of this world we live in.
[Write Comment]
Chapter 5 & 6
By Michelle Safley (05/20/10 17:06:04)
Related animal: Dolphin
Chapters five and six from Dolphin Mysteries consider the way in which humans and dolphins interact with each other, and the positive and negative effects of such communication. Ultimately, it may be better to leave wild animals alone, but humans are too curious and encompassed in self importance to ever let them alone entirely. It seems like there is no right answer as to whether or not humans should get involved in animal lives. Some might argue that we can save them, so of course we should be communicating with them to the best of our ability. Others might argue that by getting involved we interfere with nature and the natural order of things, and that by stepping back we're not being cruel, we're just letting the animal kingdom do what its been doing for thousands of years. No matter how little or how much we communicate with animals, there is always the chance that a miscommunication will occur, since they already happen quite frequently between humans. We just have to be extra careful and try our best to find the right respectful balance between observer and collaborator, and hope the animals do the same.
[Write Comment]
By Michelle Safley (05/20/10 17:06:04)
Related animal: Dolphin
Chapters five and six from Dolphin Mysteries consider the way in which humans and dolphins interact with each other, and the positive and negative effects of such communication. Ultimately, it may be better to leave wild animals alone, but humans are too curious and encompassed in self importance to ever let them alone entirely. It seems like there is no right answer as to whether or not humans should get involved in animal lives. Some might argue that we can save them, so of course we should be communicating with them to the best of our ability. Others might argue that by getting involved we interfere with nature and the natural order of things, and that by stepping back we're not being cruel, we're just letting the animal kingdom do what its been doing for thousands of years. No matter how little or how much we communicate with animals, there is always the chance that a miscommunication will occur, since they already happen quite frequently between humans. We just have to be extra careful and try our best to find the right respectful balance between observer and collaborator, and hope the animals do the same.
[Write Comment]
Chapter 5 and 6 of the dolphin book - Toni Frohoff
By Evan Hynes (06/08/10 03:24:29)
Related animal: Dolphin
In lecture and in her book Toni Frohoff touches on the idea of seeing dolphins as species similar to humans. I know this is a broad topic, but I feel that it is probably the most important to me because it was likely the most influential on me in seeing dolphins as intelligent, caring, animals like humans. She described how dolphins do many things similar to humans, by playing with each other using air rings as "toys" to interact with to some degree, as well as caress each other in a loving, non-violent way. Perhaps I am being "specieist" to some degree, because I am holding humans as the ideal species, but I am after all, only "human" :)
[Write Comment]
By Evan Hynes (06/08/10 03:24:29)
Related animal: Dolphin
In lecture and in her book Toni Frohoff touches on the idea of seeing dolphins as species similar to humans. I know this is a broad topic, but I feel that it is probably the most important to me because it was likely the most influential on me in seeing dolphins as intelligent, caring, animals like humans. She described how dolphins do many things similar to humans, by playing with each other using air rings as "toys" to interact with to some degree, as well as caress each other in a loving, non-violent way. Perhaps I am being "specieist" to some degree, because I am holding humans as the ideal species, but I am after all, only "human" :)
[Write Comment]
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Chapter 8, Fear of the Familiar, in The Postmodern Animal by Steve Baker (2000)
By Danielle Terhune (04/22/10 12:09:40)
“And then there is the most contemptible kind (of animal):’ ‘individual animals, family pets, sentimental, Oedipal animals each with its own petty history, “my” cat, “my” dog. These animals invited us to regress, draw us into a narcissistic contemplation’...Their (Deleuze and Guattari) particular hostility to the pet stems, it seems, from how conveniently this kind of animal stands for all they despise in the expectations of an unimaginative psychoanalysis: family loyalty, obedience to the law and the possibility of a world made meaningful by well formed and exhaustive interpretations.” (Baker 168-169).
Post-modernists hate the structured. They were rebellious and yearned only for the original. The fear of the familiar stems from their hate of icons and set rules of society. For the Post-modernist there is no black and white, everything resides within shades of gray. These factors lead to the hate of pets. As mentioned in the excerpt above, the strong distaste for pets from these post-modernists stem from the institution they represent. I think that it is unfair for there artists and thinkers to say that they hate all animals who are pets and say that they love all animals who are wild and run in packs. Do these post-modernists believe that pets are just a newly acceptable form of slavery, where anyone can be ‘master’ of his home, even if it is over a tame animal? This would be true if most pets today weren’t more pampered than one’s own family members. Most people see there pets as family members, yet this too is, as the post-modernists have said, is anthropomorphizing and therefore adding to the narcism of humans, allowing a ‘lower’ thing be integrated into the family structure. There are definite issues when it comes to having ‘pets,’ yet I believe pets are not good or bad. It is the human caretaker that creates a situation of good or bad, productive or regressive. There needs to remain a healthy respect for the animal, and an understanding of it own animalistic traits. It is not a human, it will never have human qualities, and when people assume that their animals are a little humans just like them, then yes, I agree with the post-modernists, that is detrimental to both parties. Even though the post-modernists say they have a great fondness over wild animals I feel that they disrespect them as much as they disrespect the family ‘pet.’ They assume the wild animal is original, is unique, and runs its life by its own rules devoid of human interaction. They see the animal as pure. Yet, it an ironic love affair, seeing how studies have proven time and again, that wild animals have a very structured way of life, and that any disruption in there patterns, such as humans cutting down rain forests or global warming changing set weather patterns, wild animals are hard pressed to survive there changes, and may adapt, but may not. Their structures is what keeps them alive. And, although there are not human structures, should not the post-modernists despise these as well, because of their strong fear of the familiar, the predictable? So too, then, should the post-modernists hate wild animals more-so then the ‘pet’ for the pet is the one who has moved away from this set patterns, and moved into a who new alien environment from its nature and from its pack. Therefore, logically, under the post-modernists own choice of values the ‘pet’ should be their favored animal.
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (04/22/10 12:09:40)
“And then there is the most contemptible kind (of animal):’ ‘individual animals, family pets, sentimental, Oedipal animals each with its own petty history, “my” cat, “my” dog. These animals invited us to regress, draw us into a narcissistic contemplation’...Their (Deleuze and Guattari) particular hostility to the pet stems, it seems, from how conveniently this kind of animal stands for all they despise in the expectations of an unimaginative psychoanalysis: family loyalty, obedience to the law and the possibility of a world made meaningful by well formed and exhaustive interpretations.” (Baker 168-169).
Post-modernists hate the structured. They were rebellious and yearned only for the original. The fear of the familiar stems from their hate of icons and set rules of society. For the Post-modernist there is no black and white, everything resides within shades of gray. These factors lead to the hate of pets. As mentioned in the excerpt above, the strong distaste for pets from these post-modernists stem from the institution they represent. I think that it is unfair for there artists and thinkers to say that they hate all animals who are pets and say that they love all animals who are wild and run in packs. Do these post-modernists believe that pets are just a newly acceptable form of slavery, where anyone can be ‘master’ of his home, even if it is over a tame animal? This would be true if most pets today weren’t more pampered than one’s own family members. Most people see there pets as family members, yet this too is, as the post-modernists have said, is anthropomorphizing and therefore adding to the narcism of humans, allowing a ‘lower’ thing be integrated into the family structure. There are definite issues when it comes to having ‘pets,’ yet I believe pets are not good or bad. It is the human caretaker that creates a situation of good or bad, productive or regressive. There needs to remain a healthy respect for the animal, and an understanding of it own animalistic traits. It is not a human, it will never have human qualities, and when people assume that their animals are a little humans just like them, then yes, I agree with the post-modernists, that is detrimental to both parties. Even though the post-modernists say they have a great fondness over wild animals I feel that they disrespect them as much as they disrespect the family ‘pet.’ They assume the wild animal is original, is unique, and runs its life by its own rules devoid of human interaction. They see the animal as pure. Yet, it an ironic love affair, seeing how studies have proven time and again, that wild animals have a very structured way of life, and that any disruption in there patterns, such as humans cutting down rain forests or global warming changing set weather patterns, wild animals are hard pressed to survive there changes, and may adapt, but may not. Their structures is what keeps them alive. And, although there are not human structures, should not the post-modernists despise these as well, because of their strong fear of the familiar, the predictable? So too, then, should the post-modernists hate wild animals more-so then the ‘pet’ for the pet is the one who has moved away from this set patterns, and moved into a who new alien environment from its nature and from its pack. Therefore, logically, under the post-modernists own choice of values the ‘pet’ should be their favored animal.
[Write Comment]
Charlie Russell's (depicted in "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia")
By ho chi leung (05/11/10 19:08:01)
Timothy's death was supposed to be a tragedy , but i think the movie's style presented Timothy's death to be something ironic. And I actually like the way that the movie was presented, because I think Timothy was too innocent and he stupidly dig a hole for himself to jump and die. I understand he wanted to create some kind of trust or bonds with the bears, and so he did not consider to prepare any protections such as pepper sprays and electric fences that Charlie Russell suggested . I think Timothy overly loved the bears, which caused him to think the bears were actually the human who could think and act in the same way as he did. And in fact, animals are animals, they don't have our human body nor our intelligence.
Also, we also watched another movie about the couples saved the three baby bears. I understand their sympathy towards the bears, but i do not agree they should raised the bears. I heard a story from Discovery Channel about the animals. Even if their staff see the dying animals or animals in danger, they will not try to help or save because they do not want to interrupt the law of the jungle.
[Write Comment]
By ho chi leung (05/11/10 19:08:01)
Timothy's death was supposed to be a tragedy , but i think the movie's style presented Timothy's death to be something ironic. And I actually like the way that the movie was presented, because I think Timothy was too innocent and he stupidly dig a hole for himself to jump and die. I understand he wanted to create some kind of trust or bonds with the bears, and so he did not consider to prepare any protections such as pepper sprays and electric fences that Charlie Russell suggested . I think Timothy overly loved the bears, which caused him to think the bears were actually the human who could think and act in the same way as he did. And in fact, animals are animals, they don't have our human body nor our intelligence.
Also, we also watched another movie about the couples saved the three baby bears. I understand their sympathy towards the bears, but i do not agree they should raised the bears. I heard a story from Discovery Channel about the animals. Even if their staff see the dying animals or animals in danger, they will not try to help or save because they do not want to interrupt the law of the jungle.
[Write Comment]
Charlie Russell's Response
By Michael Martinez (06/06/10 23:15:45)
This was by far my favorite article we have read thus far. It probably is because a lot of my ideas are summed up by Russell. The conflicting views I have on Timothy Treadwell are put articulately and intelligently by someone who actuary knows what their talking about.
I felt that what Timothy did was amazing and praise worthy, however the man himself is a confusing and hard to love figure. And anyone who watched Grizzly Man and is unaware of who, Werner Herzog is or how he views the world will easily get rapt up in his version of the story.
ON a side note, it was most likely a typo but, i found it interesting that Russell Refers to the group Grizzly People as a "non-prophet" organization.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Martinez (06/06/10 23:15:45)
This was by far my favorite article we have read thus far. It probably is because a lot of my ideas are summed up by Russell. The conflicting views I have on Timothy Treadwell are put articulately and intelligently by someone who actuary knows what their talking about.
I felt that what Timothy did was amazing and praise worthy, however the man himself is a confusing and hard to love figure. And anyone who watched Grizzly Man and is unaware of who, Werner Herzog is or how he views the world will easily get rapt up in his version of the story.
ON a side note, it was most likely a typo but, i found it interesting that Russell Refers to the group Grizzly People as a "non-prophet" organization.
[Write Comment]
Chicken Communication
By Natalie Croak (04/24/13 09:39:24)
Related animal: Chicken
Outside the back door to my apartment is my co-op’s chicken coop, home to Gumbo, Speckles, Abe Lincoln, Uma Thurman, Pot Pie, and Brianne of Tarth. I never really pay attention to the chickens so I decided to attempt to communicate with them. My roommate used to be the chicken manager, or “chicktator,” so I decided to try to communicate with them with no previous knowledge of the chickens so I wouldn’t be biased. Then afterwards I talked to her to see if I had “the gift.”
I sat on the edge of one of the garden beds for about a half an hour watching them and attempting to communicate. I tried to open my mind to the idea of interspecies communication and wrote down everything that came into my head. Our smallest chicken Pot Pie has a metal tag around her leg and I sensed that it bothered her. Other things that I picked up on were that they wanted more fresh food instead of chicken feed and they wished more people would hang out in the backyard. I’m a skeptic of animal communicators however, and I think that this was just me projecting my own ideas of what they would be thinking about onto the chickens. However I did sense that Gumbo’s right wing was bothering it and later when it ruffled her feathers I noticed a bald spot on its right side.
While I was out there I noticed that one of our chickens Abe (named for her burly feather beard) was really working to get my attention. Whenever I would move around to get a better view of another chicken she would follow me around and get in the way when I would try to take a picture. She ended up photo-bombing almost every shot.
Afterwards I talked to my roommate about what I thought the chickens had told me. When I told her that Pot Pie wanted the tag taken off her leg she got mad and said that she tried to take it off when we rescued Pot Pie from the shelter but she kept running away and scratching her. She also said that Gumbo’s bald spot was just normal molting but maybe that’s an uncomfortable process for chickens. I decided that I going to try to go out to the chicken coop more often with my leftover vegetables for them to eat since that was their biggest request.
[Write Comment]
By Natalie Croak (04/24/13 09:39:24)
Related animal: Chicken
Outside the back door to my apartment is my co-op’s chicken coop, home to Gumbo, Speckles, Abe Lincoln, Uma Thurman, Pot Pie, and Brianne of Tarth. I never really pay attention to the chickens so I decided to attempt to communicate with them. My roommate used to be the chicken manager, or “chicktator,” so I decided to try to communicate with them with no previous knowledge of the chickens so I wouldn’t be biased. Then afterwards I talked to her to see if I had “the gift.”
I sat on the edge of one of the garden beds for about a half an hour watching them and attempting to communicate. I tried to open my mind to the idea of interspecies communication and wrote down everything that came into my head. Our smallest chicken Pot Pie has a metal tag around her leg and I sensed that it bothered her. Other things that I picked up on were that they wanted more fresh food instead of chicken feed and they wished more people would hang out in the backyard. I’m a skeptic of animal communicators however, and I think that this was just me projecting my own ideas of what they would be thinking about onto the chickens. However I did sense that Gumbo’s right wing was bothering it and later when it ruffled her feathers I noticed a bald spot on its right side.
While I was out there I noticed that one of our chickens Abe (named for her burly feather beard) was really working to get my attention. Whenever I would move around to get a better view of another chicken she would follow me around and get in the way when I would try to take a picture. She ended up photo-bombing almost every shot.
Afterwards I talked to my roommate about what I thought the chickens had told me. When I told her that Pot Pie wanted the tag taken off her leg she got mad and said that she tried to take it off when we rescued Pot Pie from the shelter but she kept running away and scratching her. She also said that Gumbo’s bald spot was just normal molting but maybe that’s an uncomfortable process for chickens. I decided that I going to try to go out to the chicken coop more often with my leftover vegetables for them to eat since that was their biggest request.
Inside of their laying box--Abe is still trying to get in the picture | 
The beautiful Uma Thurman |
Abe photo-bombing Pot Pie's picture | 
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Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Class Decisions
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:30:51)
Related animal: Human
Interspecies Collaboration Week 2
The reason I originally chose this class was because I was really interested in the description. I was interested in the description because there wasn’t really one at all and pretty much all I got from it was that we were going to attempt to communicate with animals during the quarter and that really intrigued me. My mother is a veterinarian at an animal hospital and at a rescue zoo in Big Bear Lake, CA and my dad is a retired professional horse jockey so I have been around many different species of animals my entire life. My mom has always thought that animals can really understand what she’s trying to say to them because much of the time they do exactly what she’s asking. This started with our own dogs and horse, but quickly spread to most of the animals at the zoo. One crazy experience I had with an animal was when I was five. My family and I went camping up in King’s Canyon. It was just passed sunset and everyone was washing up and getting ready for dinner. While everyone was busy doing that, I somehow slipped away from the campsite and was nowhere to be found. 15 minutes later my family had the park rangers looking all over the campgrounds for me. And after 30 minutes they brought in local enforcement to help with the search. After a little over an hour of searching and far into nighttime the rangers found me sitting playing with rocks and sticks about a two minute walk outside of the campground with two bears sitting just 30 feet away from me. Since they were so close and in the same opening, the camp rangers had to be very careful with talking to me and “saving” me. They scared away the bears and then picked me up and brought me to my parents. The whole time I had no idea that anything was wrong and I was just playing in the same area as these bears. I know I didn’t directly interact with the bears, but being so helpless and in such close proximity with them makes me feel now like we kind of made an agreement to play in our own areas. Sort of like we were cool with each other as long as I didn’t mess with them and they didn’t mess with me.
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:30:51)
Related animal: Human
Interspecies Collaboration Week 2
The reason I originally chose this class was because I was really interested in the description. I was interested in the description because there wasn’t really one at all and pretty much all I got from it was that we were going to attempt to communicate with animals during the quarter and that really intrigued me. My mother is a veterinarian at an animal hospital and at a rescue zoo in Big Bear Lake, CA and my dad is a retired professional horse jockey so I have been around many different species of animals my entire life. My mom has always thought that animals can really understand what she’s trying to say to them because much of the time they do exactly what she’s asking. This started with our own dogs and horse, but quickly spread to most of the animals at the zoo. One crazy experience I had with an animal was when I was five. My family and I went camping up in King’s Canyon. It was just passed sunset and everyone was washing up and getting ready for dinner. While everyone was busy doing that, I somehow slipped away from the campsite and was nowhere to be found. 15 minutes later my family had the park rangers looking all over the campgrounds for me. And after 30 minutes they brought in local enforcement to help with the search. After a little over an hour of searching and far into nighttime the rangers found me sitting playing with rocks and sticks about a two minute walk outside of the campground with two bears sitting just 30 feet away from me. Since they were so close and in the same opening, the camp rangers had to be very careful with talking to me and “saving” me. They scared away the bears and then picked me up and brought me to my parents. The whole time I had no idea that anything was wrong and I was just playing in the same area as these bears. I know I didn’t directly interact with the bears, but being so helpless and in such close proximity with them makes me feel now like we kind of made an agreement to play in our own areas. Sort of like we were cool with each other as long as I didn’t mess with them and they didn’t mess with me.
[Write Comment]
Colaboration with Dolphins
By Danusia Young (06/05/10 16:01:50)
Related animal: Dolphin
Our collaborative project with dolphins was a lot of fun. I did not expect to see that many of them in the same time. Though I did see some on our way and back from Island trip I was still mesmerized by them. Nothing is more beautiful as to see them in their natural environment free and playful. It was interesting to see them enjoying our presence (for sure the free boat ride). Some of them stop with us and were waiting a few seconds for us to move again.
[Write Comment]
By Danusia Young (06/05/10 16:01:50)
Related animal: Dolphin
Our collaborative project with dolphins was a lot of fun. I did not expect to see that many of them in the same time. Though I did see some on our way and back from Island trip I was still mesmerized by them. Nothing is more beautiful as to see them in their natural environment free and playful. It was interesting to see them enjoying our presence (for sure the free boat ride). Some of them stop with us and were waiting a few seconds for us to move again.
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Collaborating With Animals: What Does It Really Mean?
By Alex Inigo (06/06/06 00:45:39)
Over the course of the quarter, we've encountered many challenges, surprises, and bloopers that sometimes render our collaboration into a disaster. It's important to note however, that these other species are as emotional and cooperative as any human could be. There's many factors that may hinder an artist, whether traditional or otherwise, in trying to cope with the conditions with working with another species. Though I will unwittingly deny any expertise in the field, let it be known that the field - despite having many individuals who claim expertise - is still at its infancy and that you, as an artist interested in this fascinating field, is as good an expert as any other.
1. Remove any preconceptions about the species you are working with.
Most individuals who work with other species are deterred by the idea because of the "obvious" knowledge that we are the smarter species. In order to communicate something to another species, one must not assume dominance over another, as this can possibly create a form of hesitation toward the subject. Try to cater to the species' basic needs and instincts and learn from their actions...
2. Establish trust between you and the species (if applicable).
Sure, this step might not be applicable when you're working with mixing microscopic organisms and food coloring, but can be extremely helpful if you're working with certain species in a much more intimate environment. Establishing trust makes the species more akin towards working with you in addition to making them attempt to be more emphatic about your goals in collaborating with them.
3. Consider that other species react to certain kinds of stimulation differently than humans.
Keep in mind that certain methods of interaction may incite a reaction that, though may seem familiar, may be one that is predatory or insulting to the species. Being observant can help in figuring out when the opposite species is tired, unwilling to work, or hungry. It is important that these bare essentials need to be met as well.
4. Putting yourself in the situation of the species sometimes doesn't work.
This bullet point goes along with number one. Like said in the previous bullet point, sometimes species behave differently... so what you think might be good for the other might be considered bad. Think twice about what you do and observe their reaction to it.
5. Research!
Oddly enough, the most efficient way to communicate with other species is to learn how other humans have done it before you. Wikipedia, though vastly user populated, has reference links at the bottom of each related title (such as Animal Cognition or Animal Communication) that can be further reading if you doubt any of the text on there. Remember that though the goal of interspecies collaboration is to collaborate with non-human species, other humans have attempted what you have already done. In short, don't reinvent the wheel if someone has already tried, experienced, and have written about it.
[Write Comment]
By Alex Inigo (06/06/06 00:45:39)
Over the course of the quarter, we've encountered many challenges, surprises, and bloopers that sometimes render our collaboration into a disaster. It's important to note however, that these other species are as emotional and cooperative as any human could be. There's many factors that may hinder an artist, whether traditional or otherwise, in trying to cope with the conditions with working with another species. Though I will unwittingly deny any expertise in the field, let it be known that the field - despite having many individuals who claim expertise - is still at its infancy and that you, as an artist interested in this fascinating field, is as good an expert as any other.
1. Remove any preconceptions about the species you are working with.
Most individuals who work with other species are deterred by the idea because of the "obvious" knowledge that we are the smarter species. In order to communicate something to another species, one must not assume dominance over another, as this can possibly create a form of hesitation toward the subject. Try to cater to the species' basic needs and instincts and learn from their actions...
2. Establish trust between you and the species (if applicable).
Sure, this step might not be applicable when you're working with mixing microscopic organisms and food coloring, but can be extremely helpful if you're working with certain species in a much more intimate environment. Establishing trust makes the species more akin towards working with you in addition to making them attempt to be more emphatic about your goals in collaborating with them.
3. Consider that other species react to certain kinds of stimulation differently than humans.
Keep in mind that certain methods of interaction may incite a reaction that, though may seem familiar, may be one that is predatory or insulting to the species. Being observant can help in figuring out when the opposite species is tired, unwilling to work, or hungry. It is important that these bare essentials need to be met as well.
4. Putting yourself in the situation of the species sometimes doesn't work.
This bullet point goes along with number one. Like said in the previous bullet point, sometimes species behave differently... so what you think might be good for the other might be considered bad. Think twice about what you do and observe their reaction to it.
5. Research!
Oddly enough, the most efficient way to communicate with other species is to learn how other humans have done it before you. Wikipedia, though vastly user populated, has reference links at the bottom of each related title (such as Animal Cognition or Animal Communication) that can be further reading if you doubt any of the text on there. Remember that though the goal of interspecies collaboration is to collaborate with non-human species, other humans have attempted what you have already done. In short, don't reinvent the wheel if someone has already tried, experienced, and have written about it.
[Write Comment]
How To: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Collaborating With Pets You Do Not Own
By Connie Hwang (05/22/06 12:02:13)
Related animals: Cat, Dog, Human
I want to get to know you, build a relationship, and best of all, make something for you... Ding Ding, you are a quite a character and it's been hard working with you!
When we encounter interactions with species such as dogs, cats, and the other usual house pets, it is easy to become acquaintances. But to fully engage in a collaborative effort either for art, or other personal motives, it takes more than just a sniff of your body odor and a pet on the head.
1. Research
From my experience with working with a Chihuahua named Ding Ding and a poodle named Scottie, it takes a little research at first to start off the initial relationship. Just like humans, we like to get to know about the other person before initiating or exchanging more intimate actions. However, unlike a human, we cannot directly ask questions to a dog, cat, bird, or chinchilla! So we are left to do some of our own research, asking either the owner some questions or looking through the internet or books for information. It would be nice to know what breed your animal is and any pertinent details that might effect your collaboration (such information can be whether the dog is an aggressive breed…etc.).
2 . Get Comfortable – The both of you!
When collaborating with an animal, I feel that it is important to “get comfortable” with your collaborator. This is important for the animal too. If you show up once every week, or interact with it once in a blue moon, it is less likely to participate and work with you.
3. Work as a Team, not “I own you so do this!”
We have to remember that when we collaborate, it is a team work interactive.
1. Collaboration is defined as: To work together, especially in a joint intellectual effort.
2. To cooperate treasonably, as with an enemy occupation force in one's country.
With this definition in mind, I would advise you not to treat the animal as if it were a pet… it is your partner! And if you want your pet to respect you, then show it some love and respect too!
4. Patience is a virtue
It is vitally important to be patient with animals because we lack the ability to directly communicate with them, so it makes it that much more difficult to collaborate. Aside from that, we don’t know when the animal actually is in the mood to be nice and cooperate, so be patient if your dog or cat is PMSing and ignoring you on certain days. It’s natural, humans have that tendency too. Also, there might be sensitive and personal issues brewing within the pet’s family (such as its owner getting very sick, or death of family member) which may affect the pet’s mood- so be understanding, reasonable, and most importantly: be patient.
5. Record your interaction and activities
It is good to keep records of progress or regression of collaboration efforts, so you can always look back and study or make reasonable conclusions instead of faulty or misleading assumptions.
So with these steps in mind, I hope it can contribute to progression in your collaboration with animals! Good luck!
[Write Comment]
By Connie Hwang (05/22/06 12:02:13)
Related animals: Cat, Dog, Human
I want to get to know you, build a relationship, and best of all, make something for you... Ding Ding, you are a quite a character and it's been hard working with you!
When we encounter interactions with species such as dogs, cats, and the other usual house pets, it is easy to become acquaintances. But to fully engage in a collaborative effort either for art, or other personal motives, it takes more than just a sniff of your body odor and a pet on the head.
1. Research
From my experience with working with a Chihuahua named Ding Ding and a poodle named Scottie, it takes a little research at first to start off the initial relationship. Just like humans, we like to get to know about the other person before initiating or exchanging more intimate actions. However, unlike a human, we cannot directly ask questions to a dog, cat, bird, or chinchilla! So we are left to do some of our own research, asking either the owner some questions or looking through the internet or books for information. It would be nice to know what breed your animal is and any pertinent details that might effect your collaboration (such information can be whether the dog is an aggressive breed…etc.).
2 . Get Comfortable – The both of you!
When collaborating with an animal, I feel that it is important to “get comfortable” with your collaborator. This is important for the animal too. If you show up once every week, or interact with it once in a blue moon, it is less likely to participate and work with you.
3. Work as a Team, not “I own you so do this!”
We have to remember that when we collaborate, it is a team work interactive.
1. Collaboration is defined as: To work together, especially in a joint intellectual effort.
2. To cooperate treasonably, as with an enemy occupation force in one's country.
With this definition in mind, I would advise you not to treat the animal as if it were a pet… it is your partner! And if you want your pet to respect you, then show it some love and respect too!
4. Patience is a virtue
It is vitally important to be patient with animals because we lack the ability to directly communicate with them, so it makes it that much more difficult to collaborate. Aside from that, we don’t know when the animal actually is in the mood to be nice and cooperate, so be patient if your dog or cat is PMSing and ignoring you on certain days. It’s natural, humans have that tendency too. Also, there might be sensitive and personal issues brewing within the pet’s family (such as its owner getting very sick, or death of family member) which may affect the pet’s mood- so be understanding, reasonable, and most importantly: be patient.
5. Record your interaction and activities
It is good to keep records of progress or regression of collaboration efforts, so you can always look back and study or make reasonable conclusions instead of faulty or misleading assumptions.
So with these steps in mind, I hope it can contribute to progression in your collaboration with animals! Good luck!
[Write Comment]
Collaboration Ideas
By Rachel Fleming (04/27/14 20:59:43)
Related animal: Caterpillar
I’ve decided to pick three ideas that stand out to me from my last entry. Those three are:
1. Using caterpillars to make intricate designs on leaves
2. Pouring liquid into tunnels made by worms and letting it set into gel or plaster
3. Making tunnel designs or sand designs with beach hoppers.
Here’s a more in-depth description of each.
For the first, I could find or buy several small caterpillars and give them some interesting looking leaves. On the leaves I could make a maze for them to eat through. This could spell out letters or just make interesting patterns, like spirals, circles, hearts, etc. I would only need to figure out how to safely keep the caterpillars and how to control their position and munching on the leaf. I could probably easily find both caterpillars and leaves. I need a material to put on the leaves that the caterpillars cannot eat through.
For the second, I will need an ant farm and worms, both easily attainable. I could also create barriers to possibly control the tunnel patterns made by the worms. In the end, I can put water on the top to make the worms come out so that I can release them and pour a molding material into the tunnels. The molds can then be exhibited.
For the third, I can use a similar concept as I just mentioned with the worms and see what kind of patterns beach hoppers make. Or, I could set up a sand environment with shallow and deep regions for the bugs to bury in. If the area they are digging in is too shallow for them, they will make a mark and move to another area most likely (although I have observed beach hoppers run out of energy if they cannot bury quickly, which could be dangerous). The resulting landscape could be interesting.
I should think more critically about all three of these possibilities. Worms and beach hoppers would be incredibly easy to get. However, leaves for the caterpillars would also be easy. They all seem possible. Worm burrows actually probably wouldn’t be that exciting since I have seen photos online of fairly simple burrows. With burrowing out of the question, I think the caterpillar idea might be best.
What will my first steps be then? I can ask some friends if they think it would be possible for me to find caterpillars around. If I not, I could get some online or from a store perhaps. I hope I can find some native ones though since I’d like to be able to release them later. Also, I can research materials that I can use to control where they can eat the leaves. It needs to be something flexible that they cannot eat through and that won’t make them sick if they do. Then I need to think of what kind of patterns would be possible. I also need to be able to set aside time to monitor the caterpillars as they eat.
[Write Comment]
Comment by monaluo (05/10/14 20:01:08):
If you're looking for caterpillars, the cork oak tree next to the library is swarming with them. There's caterpillars on just about every other leaf. I don't know what species they are, but they're pretty small right now.
By Rachel Fleming (04/27/14 20:59:43)
Related animal: Caterpillar
I’ve decided to pick three ideas that stand out to me from my last entry. Those three are:
1. Using caterpillars to make intricate designs on leaves
2. Pouring liquid into tunnels made by worms and letting it set into gel or plaster
3. Making tunnel designs or sand designs with beach hoppers.
Here’s a more in-depth description of each.
For the first, I could find or buy several small caterpillars and give them some interesting looking leaves. On the leaves I could make a maze for them to eat through. This could spell out letters or just make interesting patterns, like spirals, circles, hearts, etc. I would only need to figure out how to safely keep the caterpillars and how to control their position and munching on the leaf. I could probably easily find both caterpillars and leaves. I need a material to put on the leaves that the caterpillars cannot eat through.
For the second, I will need an ant farm and worms, both easily attainable. I could also create barriers to possibly control the tunnel patterns made by the worms. In the end, I can put water on the top to make the worms come out so that I can release them and pour a molding material into the tunnels. The molds can then be exhibited.
For the third, I can use a similar concept as I just mentioned with the worms and see what kind of patterns beach hoppers make. Or, I could set up a sand environment with shallow and deep regions for the bugs to bury in. If the area they are digging in is too shallow for them, they will make a mark and move to another area most likely (although I have observed beach hoppers run out of energy if they cannot bury quickly, which could be dangerous). The resulting landscape could be interesting.
I should think more critically about all three of these possibilities. Worms and beach hoppers would be incredibly easy to get. However, leaves for the caterpillars would also be easy. They all seem possible. Worm burrows actually probably wouldn’t be that exciting since I have seen photos online of fairly simple burrows. With burrowing out of the question, I think the caterpillar idea might be best.
What will my first steps be then? I can ask some friends if they think it would be possible for me to find caterpillars around. If I not, I could get some online or from a store perhaps. I hope I can find some native ones though since I’d like to be able to release them later. Also, I can research materials that I can use to control where they can eat the leaves. It needs to be something flexible that they cannot eat through and that won’t make them sick if they do. Then I need to think of what kind of patterns would be possible. I also need to be able to set aside time to monitor the caterpillars as they eat.
[Write Comment]
Comment by monaluo (05/10/14 20:01:08):
If you're looking for caterpillars, the cork oak tree next to the library is swarming with them. There's caterpillars on just about every other leaf. I don't know what species they are, but they're pretty small right now.
Story: Animal Play Behavior
Comet the Dog
By Danielle Terhune (06/13/10 13:59:18)
Related animal: Dog
I have written about my dog and his how he thinks he is human in previous reflections and projects. I recently found some videos that explore this idea that he has about himself.
Comet watches a lot of TV when he thinks we aren't looking. When we adopted him, his previous owner had told my dad that watching TV was one of Comet's favorite pass-times. Observing what shows that my dog enjoyed I noted any show with animal sounds or any high adventure show with lots of running. I found a video of one of my dogs favorite passtimes, Lizard Hunting. I like to image that he thinks he is the great hunter looking for his prey! And although he can never catch a lizard, and most times, he can't even find one, he knows they're out there. It kind of reminds me of Mobey Dick in a never ending search for his enemy the whale.
Another of Comets favorite things to do is stare out the windows of the house and growl or bark at the neighbors for fun. He would never hurt anyone, he just likes to act all high and mighty safely behind doors. It is very silly, but such a dog thing to do.
The other two videos include his recognition of important words such as "yummy" and "walk." I am more convince that the words themselves are not what's being translated in his mind, but more of the tone in which I say the words and how Comet picks up on their meaning. I supposed its the same as me picking up on Comet's growls, barks, and whines, as a sign of his communication with me. By his sounds I can tell if he's afraid, annoyed, happy, frustrated, or protective. I can tell by his sounds if he wants to play or if he's just tired and wants to chill. I think its amazing that two different species are able to pick of on the meanings of the other just by sounds.
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (06/13/10 13:59:18)
Related animal: Dog
I have written about my dog and his how he thinks he is human in previous reflections and projects. I recently found some videos that explore this idea that he has about himself.
Comet watches a lot of TV when he thinks we aren't looking. When we adopted him, his previous owner had told my dad that watching TV was one of Comet's favorite pass-times. Observing what shows that my dog enjoyed I noted any show with animal sounds or any high adventure show with lots of running. I found a video of one of my dogs favorite passtimes, Lizard Hunting. I like to image that he thinks he is the great hunter looking for his prey! And although he can never catch a lizard, and most times, he can't even find one, he knows they're out there. It kind of reminds me of Mobey Dick in a never ending search for his enemy the whale.
Another of Comets favorite things to do is stare out the windows of the house and growl or bark at the neighbors for fun. He would never hurt anyone, he just likes to act all high and mighty safely behind doors. It is very silly, but such a dog thing to do.
The other two videos include his recognition of important words such as "yummy" and "walk." I am more convince that the words themselves are not what's being translated in his mind, but more of the tone in which I say the words and how Comet picks up on their meaning. I supposed its the same as me picking up on Comet's growls, barks, and whines, as a sign of his communication with me. By his sounds I can tell if he's afraid, annoyed, happy, frustrated, or protective. I can tell by his sounds if he wants to play or if he's just tired and wants to chill. I think its amazing that two different species are able to pick of on the meanings of the other just by sounds.
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Communicating with Layla
By Chelsea Hunter (05/10/09 10:59:06)
Related animal: Dog
After talking with the animal communicator i was very inspired to do some communicating of my own. I rescued my dog Layla about a year ago from an abusive home and although she lives with my father in Santa Maria I have always felt like we have a special bond. Those first few nights in our home she spent in bed with me and I tried to convey feelings of love and trust so that she would be comfortable. Now over a year later I was on my way to my fathers house for a visit and I thought it would be a perfect time to test our bonds and see if there could be some communication between us. She is still a young dog and when there are people around she gets very excited and hyper so it was quite hard getting her to stay still so that I could have a moment with her. I put my hands on her and looked into her eyes and it was if I could almost feel all of her thoughts racing through her head. I immediately feel joyful and relaxed when I see her and I am wondering if she is sending me messages of love and happiness. I tried to ask her a few questions, mostly things like if she is happy living with my father and if she is glad to see me. I didn't feel like I got a response but then I remembered that I was supposed to send pictures not words. How do you ask a question with pictures? I thought about it for a while and become frustrated and she started to get restless so I let her out to play. Before I left I picked her up again and looked into her eyes, I felt that I didn't even have to ask her if she was happy that I could just see that she was when she looked at me. I can't really say that the communication was totally successful but I do believe that the bond with my dog is real and that with practice I might have better luck in the future with communicating with her on another level.
[Write Comment]
By Chelsea Hunter (05/10/09 10:59:06)
Related animal: Dog
After talking with the animal communicator i was very inspired to do some communicating of my own. I rescued my dog Layla about a year ago from an abusive home and although she lives with my father in Santa Maria I have always felt like we have a special bond. Those first few nights in our home she spent in bed with me and I tried to convey feelings of love and trust so that she would be comfortable. Now over a year later I was on my way to my fathers house for a visit and I thought it would be a perfect time to test our bonds and see if there could be some communication between us. She is still a young dog and when there are people around she gets very excited and hyper so it was quite hard getting her to stay still so that I could have a moment with her. I put my hands on her and looked into her eyes and it was if I could almost feel all of her thoughts racing through her head. I immediately feel joyful and relaxed when I see her and I am wondering if she is sending me messages of love and happiness. I tried to ask her a few questions, mostly things like if she is happy living with my father and if she is glad to see me. I didn't feel like I got a response but then I remembered that I was supposed to send pictures not words. How do you ask a question with pictures? I thought about it for a while and become frustrated and she started to get restless so I let her out to play. Before I left I picked her up again and looked into her eyes, I felt that I didn't even have to ask her if she was happy that I could just see that she was when she looked at me. I can't really say that the communication was totally successful but I do believe that the bond with my dog is real and that with practice I might have better luck in the future with communicating with her on another level.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Communication using Barbara Janell's Tips
By Serena Zahler (04/19/10 22:23:12)
Related animal: Rabbit
I attempted to use the meditation practices Barbara Janell taught us to become closer to my domesticated "wild" bunny neighbors. I sat on the grass where they often frolic on warm days, closed my eyes, and tried to become closer with them. I tried to put myself in their paws, tried to envision their bunny hole (which I think is under the agave plants at the edge of the yard). I even asked them to come meditate with me. Unfortunately, the bunnies never came and participated in my honorary meditation. I do feel this exercise was important as one of my projects will consist of being their advocate, honoring their bunny friend, and acting as a lieson between them and the other human neighbors. I believe this exercise has helped me place myself on the same level as the bunnies and I will better be able to collaborate with them and create a powerful campaign not only for them, but with them.
[Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (04/19/10 22:23:12)
Related animal: Rabbit
I attempted to use the meditation practices Barbara Janell taught us to become closer to my domesticated "wild" bunny neighbors. I sat on the grass where they often frolic on warm days, closed my eyes, and tried to become closer with them. I tried to put myself in their paws, tried to envision their bunny hole (which I think is under the agave plants at the edge of the yard). I even asked them to come meditate with me. Unfortunately, the bunnies never came and participated in my honorary meditation. I do feel this exercise was important as one of my projects will consist of being their advocate, honoring their bunny friend, and acting as a lieson between them and the other human neighbors. I believe this exercise has helped me place myself on the same level as the bunnies and I will better be able to collaborate with them and create a powerful campaign not only for them, but with them.
[Write Comment]
Other: Other Related Research
Cows
By Hannah Vainstein Nathan Hayden (05/18/09 23:55:27)
Related animal: Cow
A bit about cows:
In preparation for our Sedgewick trip Nathan and I have decided to look into cows so that we may do some collaboration with the cows on the reserve (which we did).
Cows are one of the first animals to be domesticated. The word cattle is a derivative of caput or movable property and chattel, a unit of personal property. It is also related to the word capital.
Cows are in many mythologies from the golden calf in the bible to the story of Europa who was taken away by Zeus disguised as a white bull In India cows are revered as part of the hindu religion.
In our research about cows Nathan and I looked into the work of Temple Granden a professer of animal science at Colorado State University and a designer of livestock handling facilities. Language according to Temple Grandin gets in the way of our communication with animals as she thinks they have sensory based thinking which she calls “thinking with the unconscious.” (This is Freud’s definition that she is referring to.) Temple Grandin’s noteworthy cow quotes: “Cows don’t like to be yelled at.” “Cows like to learn new things.” “animal feelings are the most important things to take care of.”
Cow Fun Facts:
Cows have a great sense of smell and hearing. They can smell up to 6 miles away.
It is very hard to sneak up on them because they have almost total 360-degree panoramic vision, but they are red green colorblind.
Cows take eggs from birds’ nests, But there is no certainty that they eat the eggs. This trait is shared with white tailed deer, red deer, caribou and sheep.
Cows supplie 90% of the world’s milk.
A cow chews her cud (regurgitated, partially digested food) for up to 8 hours each day.
A cow doesn't actually bite grass but instead it feeds by curling the tongue round the grass.
[Write Comment]
By Hannah Vainstein Nathan Hayden (05/18/09 23:55:27)
Related animal: Cow
A bit about cows:
In preparation for our Sedgewick trip Nathan and I have decided to look into cows so that we may do some collaboration with the cows on the reserve (which we did).
Cows are one of the first animals to be domesticated. The word cattle is a derivative of caput or movable property and chattel, a unit of personal property. It is also related to the word capital.
Cows are in many mythologies from the golden calf in the bible to the story of Europa who was taken away by Zeus disguised as a white bull In India cows are revered as part of the hindu religion.
In our research about cows Nathan and I looked into the work of Temple Granden a professer of animal science at Colorado State University and a designer of livestock handling facilities. Language according to Temple Grandin gets in the way of our communication with animals as she thinks they have sensory based thinking which she calls “thinking with the unconscious.” (This is Freud’s definition that she is referring to.) Temple Grandin’s noteworthy cow quotes: “Cows don’t like to be yelled at.” “Cows like to learn new things.” “animal feelings are the most important things to take care of.”
Cow Fun Facts:
Cows have a great sense of smell and hearing. They can smell up to 6 miles away.
It is very hard to sneak up on them because they have almost total 360-degree panoramic vision, but they are red green colorblind.
Cows take eggs from birds’ nests, But there is no certainty that they eat the eggs. This trait is shared with white tailed deer, red deer, caribou and sheep.
Cows supplie 90% of the world’s milk.
A cow chews her cud (regurgitated, partially digested food) for up to 8 hours each day.
A cow doesn't actually bite grass but instead it feeds by curling the tongue round the grass.
[Write Comment]
Other: Interspecies Communication
Crows are intelligent?Who Knew?
By Andrea Chase (04/29/10 14:55:12)
Related animal: Crow
I stumbled upon this article in another art class I was in awhile ago. It is so interesting! I really hope you will take the time to look at this, I was astounded. This lecture is posted on TED.com a wonderful technological resource that discusses everything from genetic engineering to environmental issues. In this particular lecture interactions and communications with crows are experimented with the intention of co-habitation. The ways the crows are discussed and treated are not as experiments themselves but instead as intelligent beings that should have a place in the egotistical human centered world. PLease check this out you won't regret it.
http://blog.ted.com/2008/05/joshua_klein.php
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (04/29/10 14:55:12)
Related animal: Crow
I stumbled upon this article in another art class I was in awhile ago. It is so interesting! I really hope you will take the time to look at this, I was astounded. This lecture is posted on TED.com a wonderful technological resource that discusses everything from genetic engineering to environmental issues. In this particular lecture interactions and communications with crows are experimented with the intention of co-habitation. The ways the crows are discussed and treated are not as experiments themselves but instead as intelligent beings that should have a place in the egotistical human centered world. PLease check this out you won't regret it.
http://blog.ted.com/2008/05/joshua_klein.php
[Write Comment]
Danger pig
By Raymond Douglas (06/08/13 19:48:40)
Related animals: Human, Pig
Our day at Lil’ Orphan Hammies was unseasonably hot, but maybe that was because it took place in Solvang instead of Santa Barbara. Anyway, it took our car extra time to find this mysterious sanctuary of pigs in the Solvang hills. But, when we found it we were greeted with chubby, sometimes fowl-smelling pot bellied pigs wandering in circles and seeking attention. These guys were free from any cages and would dip in little pools to cool off and then seek refuge in the shade from the day’s harsh sun. For our group, they rolled over, made great pig noises, and let us rub their bellies raw. Initially, it was a very happy environment.
As most of this quarter’s class now knows, I have a past as a hunter and farmer. While I never personally did this, I had close friends who would raise farm pigs from the smallest piglet to the largest, most mind-numbingly large creature. I would help them clean the pens, refill their water troughs, and feed them their specialized feed. I always enjoyed these pigs from the moment I saw them at the county fair as a child. They made the best noises, smelled like poop, and just wanted their heads scratched. The county fair was, however, the saddest reality they could have faced. All week the pigs’ owners would show them in an arena and the surrounding spectators would bid for the possession of their favorite, largest pig. Upon winning a bid, the winning spectator (usually another farmer) would take the pig and eventually have it slaughtered for its meat. I was always ignorant of this fact and persisted as a nice human being to these animals. And I still do today.
Back at the sanctuary we left the confines of the main house’s side yard and went down the hill to pay a visit to the veterans of the property. Some of these pigs were upwards of 15 years old and insisted on being perpetually grumpy. Even though the only fondness they would show to you would be from you giving them treats, they still had a place in my heart as these loving, innocent creatures. However, as we were walking down to this area earlier, the owner of the property pointed to a pig behind a gate on our right and suggested that we don’t go near him for he was aggressive and didn’t often like human confrontations. We all took note and went about our business. When the group started to separate into smaller clusters and single individuals, I wandered off in search of the pigs that may be commonly ignored by the sanctuary visitors. As I crossed over a waist high fence, I heard a peculiar grunting to my right. There, with its left, black eye fixated on my presence, was the pig that we were to ignore at all costs. I was in its territory and I was freaking out. Every small move that I made he would inch closer and semi-charge me. If I stood still long enough for him to lose interest and look the other way I would try to shuffle my way back to the fence from where I came. Eventually, I needed the help of Erik’s distraction to avoid any bloody encounters. Immediately after my pig shuffle, I regretted crossing his boundary. But, days later it gave me a deeper appreciation for these animals and their hardship. This old guy was most likely abused at some point in his life and remained on guard 24/7. I got in his way, yes, but I was glad to acknowledge his pain. The day at the sanctuary augmented my love for pigs and has put pressure on me to make conscious changes in my interactions with them and in my diet.
[Write Comment]
By Raymond Douglas (06/08/13 19:48:40)
Related animals: Human, Pig
Our day at Lil’ Orphan Hammies was unseasonably hot, but maybe that was because it took place in Solvang instead of Santa Barbara. Anyway, it took our car extra time to find this mysterious sanctuary of pigs in the Solvang hills. But, when we found it we were greeted with chubby, sometimes fowl-smelling pot bellied pigs wandering in circles and seeking attention. These guys were free from any cages and would dip in little pools to cool off and then seek refuge in the shade from the day’s harsh sun. For our group, they rolled over, made great pig noises, and let us rub their bellies raw. Initially, it was a very happy environment.
As most of this quarter’s class now knows, I have a past as a hunter and farmer. While I never personally did this, I had close friends who would raise farm pigs from the smallest piglet to the largest, most mind-numbingly large creature. I would help them clean the pens, refill their water troughs, and feed them their specialized feed. I always enjoyed these pigs from the moment I saw them at the county fair as a child. They made the best noises, smelled like poop, and just wanted their heads scratched. The county fair was, however, the saddest reality they could have faced. All week the pigs’ owners would show them in an arena and the surrounding spectators would bid for the possession of their favorite, largest pig. Upon winning a bid, the winning spectator (usually another farmer) would take the pig and eventually have it slaughtered for its meat. I was always ignorant of this fact and persisted as a nice human being to these animals. And I still do today.
Back at the sanctuary we left the confines of the main house’s side yard and went down the hill to pay a visit to the veterans of the property. Some of these pigs were upwards of 15 years old and insisted on being perpetually grumpy. Even though the only fondness they would show to you would be from you giving them treats, they still had a place in my heart as these loving, innocent creatures. However, as we were walking down to this area earlier, the owner of the property pointed to a pig behind a gate on our right and suggested that we don’t go near him for he was aggressive and didn’t often like human confrontations. We all took note and went about our business. When the group started to separate into smaller clusters and single individuals, I wandered off in search of the pigs that may be commonly ignored by the sanctuary visitors. As I crossed over a waist high fence, I heard a peculiar grunting to my right. There, with its left, black eye fixated on my presence, was the pig that we were to ignore at all costs. I was in its territory and I was freaking out. Every small move that I made he would inch closer and semi-charge me. If I stood still long enough for him to lose interest and look the other way I would try to shuffle my way back to the fence from where I came. Eventually, I needed the help of Erik’s distraction to avoid any bloody encounters. Immediately after my pig shuffle, I regretted crossing his boundary. But, days later it gave me a deeper appreciation for these animals and their hardship. This old guy was most likely abused at some point in his life and remained on guard 24/7. I got in his way, yes, but I was glad to acknowledge his pain. The day at the sanctuary augmented my love for pigs and has put pressure on me to make conscious changes in my interactions with them and in my diet.
[Write Comment]
Day 1 on SC Island
By Stephanie Vasquez (05/10/09 16:08:38)
(Written on April 17th)
Here we are on the Island, and my hopes are to somehow communicate with some birds (the scrub jay, possibly?) and just like everyone else, I’d like to see that little Island Fox. I’m going to keep an eye out for it. We went on a hike today. I noticed many lizards running around, some interesting insects such as the beetle with a red X on its back, but unfortunately, no scrub jay. Actually, any bird will do, but how do you bring a bird toward you without feeding it? I honestly haven’t the slightest idea.
It’s a bit strange to walk around such a “natural” area (in other words, no pavement, not many buildings, a lot of trees, plants, and wildlife) and not see any large creatures whatsoever. The largest animal I have seen here is what looks like a sparrow, followed by the lizard. I want to see an animal. Fox, where are you?!
[Write Comment]
By Stephanie Vasquez (05/10/09 16:08:38)
(Written on April 17th)
Here we are on the Island, and my hopes are to somehow communicate with some birds (the scrub jay, possibly?) and just like everyone else, I’d like to see that little Island Fox. I’m going to keep an eye out for it. We went on a hike today. I noticed many lizards running around, some interesting insects such as the beetle with a red X on its back, but unfortunately, no scrub jay. Actually, any bird will do, but how do you bring a bird toward you without feeding it? I honestly haven’t the slightest idea.
It’s a bit strange to walk around such a “natural” area (in other words, no pavement, not many buildings, a lot of trees, plants, and wildlife) and not see any large creatures whatsoever. The largest animal I have seen here is what looks like a sparrow, followed by the lizard. I want to see an animal. Fox, where are you?!
[Write Comment]
Day 2 on SC Island
By Stephanie Vasquez (05/10/09 16:34:08)
Related animals: Fox, Island Skunk, Spider
(Written on April 18th)
Shanti and I went exploring today. We took a trail hoping to be rewarded in the end with a nice shaded area. Unfortunately, the trail continued for what seemed like forever, but that does not mean it wasn’t rewarding! I quite enjoyed the long walk, and we saw small “signs” of the fox, if you know what I mean.
We also went to an area with many eucalyptus trees and both sat in different areas as we did our own thing. I began to meditate and think about everything that had happened within just the past 2 days. I listened to the birds chirping above, listened to the rustling of leaves… I felt so much peace while sitting there. I noticed the beautiful spider webs around me and got inspired for a project. What type of project, I do not know. Once I figure that out, I will post in the Projects section. But anyway, I wish I could sit in that very spot for a few minutes every day of my life. Of course, that’s not physically possible, but according to my British literature class, I can revisit the area and experience the same benefits through the memory of Nature and Beauty alone. Now if I can only remember to sit still every once in a while. Life seems so chaotic sometimes.
Later, I decided to go on a walk in search of the fox. I found an area below a trail we had taken earlier. I sat down near a fallen tree. There is something about fallen trees that is so interesting to me, not sure what though. Anyway, I sat down for about 40 minutes. I just sat there quietly, listening. I heard rustling behind me, but no fox. It was probably a bird.
Earlier, someone saw an Island Skunk, and I had the privilege of also seeing it myself. It was hiding near some trees behind our cabin. I never thought I’d say this, but the skunk looked like a small teddy bear. I haven’t seen too many skunks (in fact, I never saw one until I moved to Santa Barbara) but this one was tiny, and had a very round face. It looked like it didn’t have a tail, and if it did, it was too small to be obvious. It seemed very scared, however, and I felt sorry that we had inflicted such terror upon it.
No other animal sightings. :s
[Write Comment]
By Stephanie Vasquez (05/10/09 16:34:08)
Related animals: Fox, Island Skunk, Spider
(Written on April 18th)
Shanti and I went exploring today. We took a trail hoping to be rewarded in the end with a nice shaded area. Unfortunately, the trail continued for what seemed like forever, but that does not mean it wasn’t rewarding! I quite enjoyed the long walk, and we saw small “signs” of the fox, if you know what I mean.
We also went to an area with many eucalyptus trees and both sat in different areas as we did our own thing. I began to meditate and think about everything that had happened within just the past 2 days. I listened to the birds chirping above, listened to the rustling of leaves… I felt so much peace while sitting there. I noticed the beautiful spider webs around me and got inspired for a project. What type of project, I do not know. Once I figure that out, I will post in the Projects section. But anyway, I wish I could sit in that very spot for a few minutes every day of my life. Of course, that’s not physically possible, but according to my British literature class, I can revisit the area and experience the same benefits through the memory of Nature and Beauty alone. Now if I can only remember to sit still every once in a while. Life seems so chaotic sometimes.
Later, I decided to go on a walk in search of the fox. I found an area below a trail we had taken earlier. I sat down near a fallen tree. There is something about fallen trees that is so interesting to me, not sure what though. Anyway, I sat down for about 40 minutes. I just sat there quietly, listening. I heard rustling behind me, but no fox. It was probably a bird.
Earlier, someone saw an Island Skunk, and I had the privilege of also seeing it myself. It was hiding near some trees behind our cabin. I never thought I’d say this, but the skunk looked like a small teddy bear. I haven’t seen too many skunks (in fact, I never saw one until I moved to Santa Barbara) but this one was tiny, and had a very round face. It looked like it didn’t have a tail, and if it did, it was too small to be obvious. It seemed very scared, however, and I felt sorry that we had inflicted such terror upon it.
No other animal sightings. :s
What animal created this, and what is it? | 
At the top of a mountain. |
Other: Interspecies Relationships
Dilemmas
By Jeff Marsch (05/25/09 22:05:06)
Related animal: Ape
After weeks of thinking and trying, I have come to the conclusion that I have no desire or incentive to actively collaborate with a non-human animal for the purpose of making art. I have had little to no success in determining how and why I might do so, and although I find the topic of interspecial relations interesting to think about, the thought process does not make me want to actively engage with an animal in a way in which I might somehow posthumously deem artistic. So I will brainstorm:
when do other species approach me, how, and for what apparent reason?
domestic cats: for scratches and possibly food
domestic dogs: same, or for some physical attention/shared activity (i.e. a run, a game, etc.)
birds: only parasitic scavenger birds like pigeons and seagulls, when they are poaching my food
rodents, skunks, raccoons: same
insects: to lay eggs on me, eat my food, sting me, or suck my blood, give me a disease, so on..
...so far these animals are all human dependent
deer: only seen from afar, never been approached nor have I approached them. they beautiful to look at and watch.
ETC.ETC.ETC.
Maybe the topic of the course should be an examination of interspecial relationships in general in relation to contemporary artistic practice, and not specifically centered around the idea of collaboration. It seems cumbersome to have to justify every project as a collaboration when an artwork could be just as important or rich without the active participation of a specific animal subject. Furthermore, considering the prospect of a non-human animal approaching one with the interest of creating "artwork" to be relatively unlikely, it might be much more productive to not confine the potential fodder of conceptual content to the process and of engagement. I have found it much more productive to think about and relate with other species through abstract and metaphorical thought as opposed to direct and physically implicated communication. So if the goal of the class is to be a reexamination and potential improvement of how humans interact with, treat, and view the non-human world, why is it necessary to actively engage with these species for our own purpose? Is it not enough to just think about how one relates to the greater animal world, to study it, to appreciate the existing nature of a certain relationship, etc? If that is the case, then the emphasis can be put on thought and the production of art work, as opposed to the questionably important development of a relationship with a specific animal.
*there is always the thought that I myself would not like to be approached by anyone/creature and forced to do some activity of their design for their personal end...I cannot escape the feeling that although the animal might enjoy the activity, it is invariably a human-activated and consequently one-sided affair. One might speculate as to the selflessness and purity of non-human species, but I would not hold out for the existence of such an altruistic species.
MORE TO COME ******** NOT COMPLETE *********
[Write Comment]
By Jeff Marsch (05/25/09 22:05:06)
Related animal: Ape
After weeks of thinking and trying, I have come to the conclusion that I have no desire or incentive to actively collaborate with a non-human animal for the purpose of making art. I have had little to no success in determining how and why I might do so, and although I find the topic of interspecial relations interesting to think about, the thought process does not make me want to actively engage with an animal in a way in which I might somehow posthumously deem artistic. So I will brainstorm:
when do other species approach me, how, and for what apparent reason?
domestic cats: for scratches and possibly food
domestic dogs: same, or for some physical attention/shared activity (i.e. a run, a game, etc.)
birds: only parasitic scavenger birds like pigeons and seagulls, when they are poaching my food
rodents, skunks, raccoons: same
insects: to lay eggs on me, eat my food, sting me, or suck my blood, give me a disease, so on..
...so far these animals are all human dependent
deer: only seen from afar, never been approached nor have I approached them. they beautiful to look at and watch.
ETC.ETC.ETC.
Maybe the topic of the course should be an examination of interspecial relationships in general in relation to contemporary artistic practice, and not specifically centered around the idea of collaboration. It seems cumbersome to have to justify every project as a collaboration when an artwork could be just as important or rich without the active participation of a specific animal subject. Furthermore, considering the prospect of a non-human animal approaching one with the interest of creating "artwork" to be relatively unlikely, it might be much more productive to not confine the potential fodder of conceptual content to the process and of engagement. I have found it much more productive to think about and relate with other species through abstract and metaphorical thought as opposed to direct and physically implicated communication. So if the goal of the class is to be a reexamination and potential improvement of how humans interact with, treat, and view the non-human world, why is it necessary to actively engage with these species for our own purpose? Is it not enough to just think about how one relates to the greater animal world, to study it, to appreciate the existing nature of a certain relationship, etc? If that is the case, then the emphasis can be put on thought and the production of art work, as opposed to the questionably important development of a relationship with a specific animal.
*there is always the thought that I myself would not like to be approached by anyone/creature and forced to do some activity of their design for their personal end...I cannot escape the feeling that although the animal might enjoy the activity, it is invariably a human-activated and consequently one-sided affair. One might speculate as to the selflessness and purity of non-human species, but I would not hold out for the existence of such an altruistic species.
MORE TO COME ******** NOT COMPLETE *********
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Discussion on Nollmans "The Art of Interspecies Collaboration"
By Andrea Chase (04/07/10 18:46:35)
Related animals: Rooster, Whale
*Chapter One*
Nollman begins by recapping his exploration of becoming in touch with a means of expressing sensitivity to creatures on an empathetic level. Through tracing his seemingly exciting and eclectic experiences traveling and living as a working artist and musician in various cities, I was surprised to find that Nollman felt a sense of lacking in his life. This sense of lacking caused Nollman to revert to simpler living which lead him to eventually establish his first real connection with an animal, in his case it happened to be a rooster. Nollman's musical interlacing with a single rooster lead him to further entice others of the same species into musical interlude. After about a year of interaction Nollman eventually learned how to create a symbiotic symphony with the roosters he encountered.
*Chapter Four*
The fourth chapter begins to discuss and introduce Nollman's more current work. Through discussion of both his most revered philosophies concerning respect toward animals and his work with dolphins, Nollman begins to truly relay to the reader his empathetic connection with all species. Describing his feelings about the treatment of other species can be best described as the purest "universalistic" viewpoint I have ever experienced in a human. Universalism revolves around the boundaries one extends concerning the conceptions of what fits into morality; the more universalistic you are the more empathy and relation you feel and show toward another being (human or non). In my opinion developing a universalistic attitude parallels the main goals of truly communicating and connecting with another animal, human, species, etc.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (04/07/10 18:46:35)
Related animals: Rooster, Whale
*Chapter One*
Nollman begins by recapping his exploration of becoming in touch with a means of expressing sensitivity to creatures on an empathetic level. Through tracing his seemingly exciting and eclectic experiences traveling and living as a working artist and musician in various cities, I was surprised to find that Nollman felt a sense of lacking in his life. This sense of lacking caused Nollman to revert to simpler living which lead him to eventually establish his first real connection with an animal, in his case it happened to be a rooster. Nollman's musical interlacing with a single rooster lead him to further entice others of the same species into musical interlude. After about a year of interaction Nollman eventually learned how to create a symbiotic symphony with the roosters he encountered.
*Chapter Four*
The fourth chapter begins to discuss and introduce Nollman's more current work. Through discussion of both his most revered philosophies concerning respect toward animals and his work with dolphins, Nollman begins to truly relay to the reader his empathetic connection with all species. Describing his feelings about the treatment of other species can be best described as the purest "universalistic" viewpoint I have ever experienced in a human. Universalism revolves around the boundaries one extends concerning the conceptions of what fits into morality; the more universalistic you are the more empathy and relation you feel and show toward another being (human or non). In my opinion developing a universalistic attitude parallels the main goals of truly communicating and connecting with another animal, human, species, etc.
Story: Interspecies Relationships
Dog Walking
By Jeff Marsch (05/12/09 15:37:56)
Related animal: Dog
This one was easy. It also helps when you pick a canine to be your conversation partner. In this brief exercise I tried nothing more than to get a friend's blue-nosed pit bull to come on a walk with me and fetch a stick. I chose this particular dog because she is exceptionally timid, and on a normal day wouldn't even let me pet her. I asked my friend if I could take his dog for a walk, and he told me to come and pick her up around sunset on a Tuesday. She hadn't been walked all afternoon and would hopefully be anxious to get outside with whoever would take her. When I arrived at the house, I took several tips from the dog whisperer, Cesar Millan, on how to approach a dog who is socially timid. The trick was to make myself small, so as not to appear threatening to the animal. I did not approach her, but rather waited for her to approach me. This made it clear that the relationship would be on her terms, as opposed to the assertion of the opposite had I advanced on her with a leash in my hand. After she came to me I let her sniff my hand, and extended a friendly gesture via a scratch behind the ears. Following a few minutes of petting and scratching, I showed her the leash to see if she was interested in a walk. She obviously understood the visual cue, and became visibly excited, literally leading me out of the door. I have never been a good dog walker, and this was a first; my old golden retriever would be so stubborn as to need dragging out of the door. Instead, this animal was willing and cooperative, and eventually playful. We reached a park after some time running and walking, with just enough time to throw a stick around. I let her off the leash, and to my surprise she stayed close, although clearly being led around by scents. I picked up a large stick immediately got her attention. She was willing to play until dark, at which point she started losing track of the stick. We headed back without issue, and she led me straight back to the house. It was a great success. This is an exceptionally boring story for most, but a genuine first for me.
[Write Comment]
By Jeff Marsch (05/12/09 15:37:56)
Related animal: Dog
This one was easy. It also helps when you pick a canine to be your conversation partner. In this brief exercise I tried nothing more than to get a friend's blue-nosed pit bull to come on a walk with me and fetch a stick. I chose this particular dog because she is exceptionally timid, and on a normal day wouldn't even let me pet her. I asked my friend if I could take his dog for a walk, and he told me to come and pick her up around sunset on a Tuesday. She hadn't been walked all afternoon and would hopefully be anxious to get outside with whoever would take her. When I arrived at the house, I took several tips from the dog whisperer, Cesar Millan, on how to approach a dog who is socially timid. The trick was to make myself small, so as not to appear threatening to the animal. I did not approach her, but rather waited for her to approach me. This made it clear that the relationship would be on her terms, as opposed to the assertion of the opposite had I advanced on her with a leash in my hand. After she came to me I let her sniff my hand, and extended a friendly gesture via a scratch behind the ears. Following a few minutes of petting and scratching, I showed her the leash to see if she was interested in a walk. She obviously understood the visual cue, and became visibly excited, literally leading me out of the door. I have never been a good dog walker, and this was a first; my old golden retriever would be so stubborn as to need dragging out of the door. Instead, this animal was willing and cooperative, and eventually playful. We reached a park after some time running and walking, with just enough time to throw a stick around. I let her off the leash, and to my surprise she stayed close, although clearly being led around by scents. I picked up a large stick immediately got her attention. She was willing to play until dark, at which point she started losing track of the stick. We headed back without issue, and she led me straight back to the house. It was a great success. This is an exceptionally boring story for most, but a genuine first for me.
Other: Interspecies Communication
Dolphin book ch 5 & 6
By Tanasa Slovin (06/02/10 09:25:47)
Related animal: Dolphin
These chapters were very interesting and it was quite a treat to actually be able to meet and spend time with the co-author Toni! There are many aspects that stood out for me while reading about the dolphins. First of all, I found it quite humorous and true in regards to the “assimilation tendency” theory. The part that I found humorous was when Heidi Hediger describes the “assimilation tendency” as “a characteristic of men as well as animals… to regard animals of different species… as if they belonged to the same species” (p. 124). Also, it was really interesting when they discussed the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew and how the dolphins react to such things like natural disasters. Of course when I hear about incidents such as a tsunami, hurricane, earthquake, my mind does not immediately go to "Oh I hope the dolphins and sea animals are okay". Of course my initial reaction is whether or not us (humans) are okay and safe. I never really thought about sea creatures and how something like this would effect them and be harmful to them. Researchers were observing the dolphins right after Hurricane Andrew and found that, "the dolphins wanted nothing to do with us: resting, foraging, and "regrouping" after the storm seemed their priority" (p. 127). Toni explains that while observing the same foursome of dolphins, a couple days after the aftermath and resting from the hurricane, the dolphins (one in particular named Venus) changed roles dramatically. The ecotourist, Jennifer was able to experience a remarkable interaction with the dolphin, Venus. This interaction with Venus did not only involve exchanging mental energy, however physical energy as well! This is so exciting to me! I cannot imagine what that experience must have felt like. The chapter goes on to tell the audience how Jennifer and Venus began to make circles around each other which eventually grew tighter and the two were actually body to body! Jennifer was extremely enthused about the interaction and felt that Venus left the collaboration feeling the same enthusiasm and energy as she! What an experience. After reading these chapters, it has really opened my eye and mind to a whole other world: the dolphin world.
Dolphin DREAMTIME (Book) [Write Comment]
Comment by tanasa (06/02/10 09:28:24):
I couldn't find the "Dolphin Mysteries" resource... FYI
By Tanasa Slovin (06/02/10 09:25:47)
Related animal: Dolphin
These chapters were very interesting and it was quite a treat to actually be able to meet and spend time with the co-author Toni! There are many aspects that stood out for me while reading about the dolphins. First of all, I found it quite humorous and true in regards to the “assimilation tendency” theory. The part that I found humorous was when Heidi Hediger describes the “assimilation tendency” as “a characteristic of men as well as animals… to regard animals of different species… as if they belonged to the same species” (p. 124). Also, it was really interesting when they discussed the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew and how the dolphins react to such things like natural disasters. Of course when I hear about incidents such as a tsunami, hurricane, earthquake, my mind does not immediately go to "Oh I hope the dolphins and sea animals are okay". Of course my initial reaction is whether or not us (humans) are okay and safe. I never really thought about sea creatures and how something like this would effect them and be harmful to them. Researchers were observing the dolphins right after Hurricane Andrew and found that, "the dolphins wanted nothing to do with us: resting, foraging, and "regrouping" after the storm seemed their priority" (p. 127). Toni explains that while observing the same foursome of dolphins, a couple days after the aftermath and resting from the hurricane, the dolphins (one in particular named Venus) changed roles dramatically. The ecotourist, Jennifer was able to experience a remarkable interaction with the dolphin, Venus. This interaction with Venus did not only involve exchanging mental energy, however physical energy as well! This is so exciting to me! I cannot imagine what that experience must have felt like. The chapter goes on to tell the audience how Jennifer and Venus began to make circles around each other which eventually grew tighter and the two were actually body to body! Jennifer was extremely enthused about the interaction and felt that Venus left the collaboration feeling the same enthusiasm and energy as she! What an experience. After reading these chapters, it has really opened my eye and mind to a whole other world: the dolphin world.
Comment by tanasa (06/02/10 09:28:24):
I couldn't find the "Dolphin Mysteries" resource... FYI
Dolphin Mysteries
By Royce Chun (06/07/10 19:06:09)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found myself agreeing with a lot of what Toni had to say about how humans and other species should interact. As humans, I would say that we are the most powerful and intelligent force on Earth, but not necessarily the most important. I believe that every species is just as important as the next. When interacting with another species, we should always be aware that we could in fact cause more harm when interacting than good, despite how good our intentions may be. For example, we may want to touch a creature's egg just to feel its texture yet the parents may end up disowning it all because a human interacted with it. We may also become friends with animals that are generally hunted and because of our friendly relationship, they only become easy targets for those with cruel intentions. We should have an equal fear of harming a species as we do in fear of them harming us. This fear could be expanded or minimized depending on our understand of the species in question. The more we understand, the more we know how to or now not to interact.
[Write Comment]
By Royce Chun (06/07/10 19:06:09)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found myself agreeing with a lot of what Toni had to say about how humans and other species should interact. As humans, I would say that we are the most powerful and intelligent force on Earth, but not necessarily the most important. I believe that every species is just as important as the next. When interacting with another species, we should always be aware that we could in fact cause more harm when interacting than good, despite how good our intentions may be. For example, we may want to touch a creature's egg just to feel its texture yet the parents may end up disowning it all because a human interacted with it. We may also become friends with animals that are generally hunted and because of our friendly relationship, they only become easy targets for those with cruel intentions. We should have an equal fear of harming a species as we do in fear of them harming us. This fear could be expanded or minimized depending on our understand of the species in question. The more we understand, the more we know how to or now not to interact.
[Write Comment]
Dolphin Mysteries Chapters 5 and 6.
By Danusia Young (05/12/10 22:37:23)
Related animal: Dolphin
Both chapters focused on very important points about human/dolphin communication. The idea that people misread dolphin signals was very interesting spatially statement about people wanted the dolphins to behave like Flipper or Shamu. Despise the humoristic approach I completely understand that this kind of human attitude can brings negative response from the dolphins. I think that we sometimes forget that animals like us have feelings too and can act destructively when put in the dangerous or stressful situations. We think that if we have fun they probably are having fun too. As Toni points even dolphins can act forcefully or aggressively toward humans that misbehave in their world. The most important elements of interspecies communication are to learn how to listen and wisely observe the behavior of another species. We have to learn to give them space that they fully deserved. I think we have to start looking at dolphins not only as members of a different group of species but primary as unique individuals, each expressing a kaleidoscope of unique characteristics.
[Write Comment]
By Danusia Young (05/12/10 22:37:23)
Related animal: Dolphin
Both chapters focused on very important points about human/dolphin communication. The idea that people misread dolphin signals was very interesting spatially statement about people wanted the dolphins to behave like Flipper or Shamu. Despise the humoristic approach I completely understand that this kind of human attitude can brings negative response from the dolphins. I think that we sometimes forget that animals like us have feelings too and can act destructively when put in the dangerous or stressful situations. We think that if we have fun they probably are having fun too. As Toni points even dolphins can act forcefully or aggressively toward humans that misbehave in their world. The most important elements of interspecies communication are to learn how to listen and wisely observe the behavior of another species. We have to learn to give them space that they fully deserved. I think we have to start looking at dolphins not only as members of a different group of species but primary as unique individuals, each expressing a kaleidoscope of unique characteristics.
[Write Comment]
Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking the Secrets of Communication
By Mark Linggi (06/13/10 18:18:37)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found it interesting and exciting how much we were able to talk with Toni who helped to coauthor this book. Her knowledge of dolphins was exceedingly exceptional, and her stories were pretty inspiring. It is clear from meeting her, as well as the chapters that we read, that she has a different perception of dolphins. She gives them an unique perspective that twists the whole inferiority complex to a more mutually respectful relationship. Much of this outlook towards a different species is a trait that I highly respect in an individual. I appreciated the wealth of knowledge that Toni communicated in class and in the book, but I felt more proud of her high respect. Its just sometimes good to know that other people look at animals the same way that you do.
[Write Comment]
By Mark Linggi (06/13/10 18:18:37)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found it interesting and exciting how much we were able to talk with Toni who helped to coauthor this book. Her knowledge of dolphins was exceedingly exceptional, and her stories were pretty inspiring. It is clear from meeting her, as well as the chapters that we read, that she has a different perception of dolphins. She gives them an unique perspective that twists the whole inferiority complex to a more mutually respectful relationship. Much of this outlook towards a different species is a trait that I highly respect in an individual. I appreciated the wealth of knowledge that Toni communicated in class and in the book, but I felt more proud of her high respect. Its just sometimes good to know that other people look at animals the same way that you do.
[Write Comment]
Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking the Secrets of Communication
By Jessica Oropesa (06/13/10 18:35:29)
Related animal: Dolphin
What I found to be most interesting about this reading was the many similarities that dolphins and humans possess, for example, their interaction with other dolphins and other species through play. Toni Frohoff mentions the mimicry that could be seen among dolphins and humans, through the sounds that they make to the behaviors that they mimic (swimming). The relationship of dolphin and humans have evolved throughout the years and we are still growing to understand them in order to cohabit on this earth. It's interesting how dolphins engage in "mischievous" play, as with the example that Frohoff gave about dolphins playing with an octopus. Although I might be anthropomorphizing, it seems as if the dolphins have a sense of humor. Frohoff also stated that she studied and dissected footage of the "play" occurring among the dolphins but found no significant correlations in her data. She says, "Perhaps that is what i get for trying to make serious sense out of something that could well be just plain fun." I also found it interesting that dolphins have used sexual behavior toward people, providing insight into how sexual behavior serves as a form of social interaction. Perhaps dolphins have a lot more in common with us than we think.
[Write Comment]
By Jessica Oropesa (06/13/10 18:35:29)
Related animal: Dolphin
What I found to be most interesting about this reading was the many similarities that dolphins and humans possess, for example, their interaction with other dolphins and other species through play. Toni Frohoff mentions the mimicry that could be seen among dolphins and humans, through the sounds that they make to the behaviors that they mimic (swimming). The relationship of dolphin and humans have evolved throughout the years and we are still growing to understand them in order to cohabit on this earth. It's interesting how dolphins engage in "mischievous" play, as with the example that Frohoff gave about dolphins playing with an octopus. Although I might be anthropomorphizing, it seems as if the dolphins have a sense of humor. Frohoff also stated that she studied and dissected footage of the "play" occurring among the dolphins but found no significant correlations in her data. She says, "Perhaps that is what i get for trying to make serious sense out of something that could well be just plain fun." I also found it interesting that dolphins have used sexual behavior toward people, providing insight into how sexual behavior serves as a form of social interaction. Perhaps dolphins have a lot more in common with us than we think.
[Write Comment]
Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking the Secrets of Communication Chapter 5 & 6
By Serena Zahler (05/11/10 10:34:54)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found the similarities between human and dolphin learning and culture to be interesting as discussed in Chapter 5. Both species use visual and audio perception to learn. They have similar aspects of communication: both dolphins and primates are highly social and use non-verbal communication, touch interaction, and vocalization as ways of interacting in their societies. Morphology (coloration, sexual dimorphism) is important in their communication. Social rank and class is also another similarity. Our similarities with dolphins should give humans a outside view of what our cultural rules look like. We should be able to use our similarities to help humans recognize the importance of dolphins in our environment and be able to protect them much better. As humans we put other species below us on our totem-pole, but it seems to me that humans and dolphins should be on the same playing field. With so many similarities, it makes me think that our dolphin entertainment is not a fun life for those dolphins, but an enslavement just like Europeans enslaving African people for their own benefit.
Questions:
1. The book explains that "many techniques used to study human-human interactions can be applied to the study of interspecies communication" (122) can you elaborate on specific examples of how our knowledge of our communication can help us understand communication between humans and dolphins?
2. Can we love another species too much? The book explains that our interest and love for coming in contact with dolphins may be do the detriment of them and their habitat.
3. What are changes we can make to our daily lives to help save dolphins, their communities, and habitats?
Resource: Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking the Secrets of Communication
Dolphin Societies: Discoveries and Puzzles (Book) [Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (05/11/10 10:34:54)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found the similarities between human and dolphin learning and culture to be interesting as discussed in Chapter 5. Both species use visual and audio perception to learn. They have similar aspects of communication: both dolphins and primates are highly social and use non-verbal communication, touch interaction, and vocalization as ways of interacting in their societies. Morphology (coloration, sexual dimorphism) is important in their communication. Social rank and class is also another similarity. Our similarities with dolphins should give humans a outside view of what our cultural rules look like. We should be able to use our similarities to help humans recognize the importance of dolphins in our environment and be able to protect them much better. As humans we put other species below us on our totem-pole, but it seems to me that humans and dolphins should be on the same playing field. With so many similarities, it makes me think that our dolphin entertainment is not a fun life for those dolphins, but an enslavement just like Europeans enslaving African people for their own benefit.
Questions:
1. The book explains that "many techniques used to study human-human interactions can be applied to the study of interspecies communication" (122) can you elaborate on specific examples of how our knowledge of our communication can help us understand communication between humans and dolphins?
2. Can we love another species too much? The book explains that our interest and love for coming in contact with dolphins may be do the detriment of them and their habitat.
3. What are changes we can make to our daily lives to help save dolphins, their communities, and habitats?
Resource: Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking the Secrets of Communication
Dolphin trip with Toni (Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking Secrets of Communication)
By Jennifer Lee Lin (06/07/10 10:24:17)
Related animal: Dolphin
It was beautiful! so so so so beautiful. I have never seen dolphins so close. the first time i had seen them swimming near the boat was the santa cruz field trip, but this trip was special if only because of the massive number of dolphins.
Unfortunately i brought a different and older camera so the pictures came up strange and the video is of poor quality.
It was such an experience. even though most of the dolphins ignored us, i think many responded to us. many dolphins jumped higher than others, and watching them swim so fast when we sped up was so fun and touched my heart. they were so alone and away from santa barbara and the isla vista that i knew that i felt as if i was somewhere else. I could almost imagine this was before urbanization ( except for the modernized boat) and that this was something new between dolphins and humans.
I tried waving a brown cloth around, then just kept whooping and singing and banging sticks together. i hope they enjoyed it
[Write Comment]
By Jennifer Lee Lin (06/07/10 10:24:17)
Related animal: Dolphin
It was beautiful! so so so so beautiful. I have never seen dolphins so close. the first time i had seen them swimming near the boat was the santa cruz field trip, but this trip was special if only because of the massive number of dolphins.
Unfortunately i brought a different and older camera so the pictures came up strange and the video is of poor quality.
It was such an experience. even though most of the dolphins ignored us, i think many responded to us. many dolphins jumped higher than others, and watching them swim so fast when we sped up was so fun and touched my heart. they were so alone and away from santa barbara and the isla vista that i knew that i felt as if i was somewhere else. I could almost imagine this was before urbanization ( except for the modernized boat) and that this was something new between dolphins and humans.
I tried waving a brown cloth around, then just kept whooping and singing and banging sticks together. i hope they enjoyed it
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Dolphin Trip!!!
By Tanasa Slovin (06/08/10 20:02:39)
Related animal: Dolphin
Here are some photos from the dolphin trip!
[Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (06/08/10 20:02:39)
Related animal: Dolphin
Here are some photos from the dolphin trip!
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Dolphins and Humans Share Rule-Making and Game-Playing
By Matthew Roy Reeves (05/11/10 22:48:38)
Related animals: Dolphin, Hermit Crab
Nollman introduces his inspiration for communication with dolphins through the "Gaia hypothesis," which suggests that "the earth itself is a self-regulating organism" (140). The Gaia consists of biological and chemical organisms joined in a non-material network. In pursuit of discovering evidence of the Gaia, Nollman attempted to communicate with a school of dolphins. Together, the dolphins and Nollman established a series of rules of a games. I intend to collaborate with my Hermit Crab, Hermes, with similar inspirations originating from the Gaia hypothesis.
Hermes, myself, and my fellow collaborator Danielle Terhune are constructing a Hermit Crab dance mix, for all aspects of his life. I will now begin work with a goal similar to that of Nollman in his pursuit of actualizing the Dolphin/Human Community. It will be the Hermit Crab/Matthew and Danielle community, a microcosm of the Gaia, with the non-material network of electric sound.
Nollman encourages me to create art with an understanding that I represent a species to other creatures. This understanding opens a passage of potential collaboration naturally overlooked when humans distinguish themselves amongst humans. By including Hermes in my art process, we become more and more conscious of the Gaia, and how we function within it.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves (05/11/10 22:48:38)
Related animals: Dolphin, Hermit Crab
Nollman introduces his inspiration for communication with dolphins through the "Gaia hypothesis," which suggests that "the earth itself is a self-regulating organism" (140). The Gaia consists of biological and chemical organisms joined in a non-material network. In pursuit of discovering evidence of the Gaia, Nollman attempted to communicate with a school of dolphins. Together, the dolphins and Nollman established a series of rules of a games. I intend to collaborate with my Hermit Crab, Hermes, with similar inspirations originating from the Gaia hypothesis.
Hermes, myself, and my fellow collaborator Danielle Terhune are constructing a Hermit Crab dance mix, for all aspects of his life. I will now begin work with a goal similar to that of Nollman in his pursuit of actualizing the Dolphin/Human Community. It will be the Hermit Crab/Matthew and Danielle community, a microcosm of the Gaia, with the non-material network of electric sound.
Nollman encourages me to create art with an understanding that I represent a species to other creatures. This understanding opens a passage of potential collaboration naturally overlooked when humans distinguish themselves amongst humans. By including Hermes in my art process, we become more and more conscious of the Gaia, and how we function within it.
Dolphins Reading
By Norah Eldredge (05/18/10 09:54:50)
Related animal: Dolphin
This reading was very interesting to me. Usually, when people talk about dolphins, there is a kitch-y anthropomorphized cuteness toward them that deters me from taking them seriously.
I feel like the perspective in this article is much different. There is an understanding and respect for the animals that is on one hand scientific, and on the other an understanding from one animal species to another.
What interested me the most was the discussion on what role dolphins play in our economy, both domestically and globally, and how the 'need' for dolphins is somewhat skewed by the monetary gain accessible through using a dolphin as the animal in question as opposed to something like a dog or horse.
We also discussed this in class, ie if dolphin therapy is really as effective as it is claimed to be, and whether or not it is worth capturing the animals in order to force human/dolphin interaction. Some aspects of this I believe are good- exposing people to nature in any way possible etc. However, more often then not, the dolphins are really not taken into consideration and are simply a commodity, nothing more. Their energy and souls are not truly engaged and not only does this affect the mental and physical well-being of the dolphin personally, but also can translate into tactile sadness, depression and even violence.
While talking about this in class I remembered an instance in my life where I had a strange interaction with dolphins. My family was in Hawaii when I was around 7 years old. My younger sister and I were dying to 'swim with the dolphins' as we had seen in movies etc, and begged our parents to let us do it. I remember this being a big discussion- my parents thought it was weird and expensive, but somehow Suzanne and I managed to convince them.
We went to the FourSeasons, or some such resort where you can swim with dolphins, and got in the water. I remember the experience being slightly scary and overwhelming. The texture of the dolphin's skin was what I remembered most, as well as how little the animal moved around the pen. What I remember most of all, though, was getting out of the water and crying. I couldn't stop crying. My parents were livid- tacking it up to cranky hungry kids and leaving it at that. It is now a legendary family story- the girls got their way, mom and dad paid for an expensive and weird activity, and then the kids melted down and hated it.
Now that I reflect back on this event, I must have picked up on the negative and sad feelings of the dolphin I interacted with! I had no idea why I was crying either, I just remember being totally overwhelmed and depressed in a way, now that I think about it, a seven year old should never be. These creatures are truly powerful and emotional creatures and need to be understood and respected in that way.
[Write Comment]
By Norah Eldredge (05/18/10 09:54:50)
Related animal: Dolphin
This reading was very interesting to me. Usually, when people talk about dolphins, there is a kitch-y anthropomorphized cuteness toward them that deters me from taking them seriously.
I feel like the perspective in this article is much different. There is an understanding and respect for the animals that is on one hand scientific, and on the other an understanding from one animal species to another.
What interested me the most was the discussion on what role dolphins play in our economy, both domestically and globally, and how the 'need' for dolphins is somewhat skewed by the monetary gain accessible through using a dolphin as the animal in question as opposed to something like a dog or horse.
We also discussed this in class, ie if dolphin therapy is really as effective as it is claimed to be, and whether or not it is worth capturing the animals in order to force human/dolphin interaction. Some aspects of this I believe are good- exposing people to nature in any way possible etc. However, more often then not, the dolphins are really not taken into consideration and are simply a commodity, nothing more. Their energy and souls are not truly engaged and not only does this affect the mental and physical well-being of the dolphin personally, but also can translate into tactile sadness, depression and even violence.
While talking about this in class I remembered an instance in my life where I had a strange interaction with dolphins. My family was in Hawaii when I was around 7 years old. My younger sister and I were dying to 'swim with the dolphins' as we had seen in movies etc, and begged our parents to let us do it. I remember this being a big discussion- my parents thought it was weird and expensive, but somehow Suzanne and I managed to convince them.
We went to the FourSeasons, or some such resort where you can swim with dolphins, and got in the water. I remember the experience being slightly scary and overwhelming. The texture of the dolphin's skin was what I remembered most, as well as how little the animal moved around the pen. What I remember most of all, though, was getting out of the water and crying. I couldn't stop crying. My parents were livid- tacking it up to cranky hungry kids and leaving it at that. It is now a legendary family story- the girls got their way, mom and dad paid for an expensive and weird activity, and then the kids melted down and hated it.
Now that I reflect back on this event, I must have picked up on the negative and sad feelings of the dolphin I interacted with! I had no idea why I was crying either, I just remember being totally overwhelmed and depressed in a way, now that I think about it, a seven year old should never be. These creatures are truly powerful and emotional creatures and need to be understood and respected in that way.
[Write Comment]
Dophin Trip
By Martin C. Shaver (06/13/10 13:26:12)
Related animal: Dolphin
some pictures from the dolphin trip
[Write Comment]
Comment by martincs (06/13/10 13:41:38):
These were some pictures i captured from the dolphin trip on the Condor Express. The trip was a great experience from start to finish. However, we did encounter a sad scenario at the very beginning before we loaded onto the boat. There was a very sick or dying seal over by where we were sitting and preparing for the boat ride. It posed as a large distraction because of how sad it was to realize the circle of life that was overshadowed by our excitement of being able to experience a mass amount of dolphins. When we left to harbor and sailed out into the ocean we came across a plethora of pelicans on what looked like a pontoon boat. I snapped a few pictures of this because of the incredible number of birds hanging out on this seemingly abandoned looking boat. We then sailed out into the ocean and came across a few seals along the way swimming around curious to see who was barreling through their waters. after a good 40 to 50 minute ride towards the channel islands, we finally found our beloved dolphins in mass numbers; to what i've been told was around 2 to even 3 thousand dolphins. we attempted a series of maneuvers with the boat and some collaboration with our fellow students, but the dolphins seemed to be more interested in our wake. they cruised along for the free ride, and as simple as it may seem, it was indeed incredible. they jumped and darted through the water and alongside our boat. they seemed happy to have us their and the excitement was clear on the faces of all of us to experience these amazing creatures.
By Martin C. Shaver (06/13/10 13:26:12)
Related animal: Dolphin
some pictures from the dolphin trip
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Comment by martincs (06/13/10 13:41:38):
These were some pictures i captured from the dolphin trip on the Condor Express. The trip was a great experience from start to finish. However, we did encounter a sad scenario at the very beginning before we loaded onto the boat. There was a very sick or dying seal over by where we were sitting and preparing for the boat ride. It posed as a large distraction because of how sad it was to realize the circle of life that was overshadowed by our excitement of being able to experience a mass amount of dolphins. When we left to harbor and sailed out into the ocean we came across a plethora of pelicans on what looked like a pontoon boat. I snapped a few pictures of this because of the incredible number of birds hanging out on this seemingly abandoned looking boat. We then sailed out into the ocean and came across a few seals along the way swimming around curious to see who was barreling through their waters. after a good 40 to 50 minute ride towards the channel islands, we finally found our beloved dolphins in mass numbers; to what i've been told was around 2 to even 3 thousand dolphins. we attempted a series of maneuvers with the boat and some collaboration with our fellow students, but the dolphins seemed to be more interested in our wake. they cruised along for the free ride, and as simple as it may seem, it was indeed incredible. they jumped and darted through the water and alongside our boat. they seemed happy to have us their and the excitement was clear on the faces of all of us to experience these amazing creatures.
Reflection: Animal Play Behavior
Ducks
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:26:11)
Related animal: Mallard Duck
I discovered this park with many ducks and turtles roaming and swimming around. The first time I went with an intention to interact with the animals for this class it was a little late in the afternoon so many of the ducks were going to sleep. I came up to them and just sat so I could watch them. I could tell they were a little frightened at first but they soon realized I meant them no harm. I sat and observed their lovely feathers and the way they slept was interesting because they turned their heads back to rest on their bodies, this caused them to look like fluffy, feathery hearts. The pond is packed with turtles, some large and some very tiny. There was one in particular that was probably the largest with two red stripes down its shell. I didn't get to do much with these animals, but I found it nice to just watch them behave in their own habitat.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:26:11)
Related animal: Mallard Duck
I discovered this park with many ducks and turtles roaming and swimming around. The first time I went with an intention to interact with the animals for this class it was a little late in the afternoon so many of the ducks were going to sleep. I came up to them and just sat so I could watch them. I could tell they were a little frightened at first but they soon realized I meant them no harm. I sat and observed their lovely feathers and the way they slept was interesting because they turned their heads back to rest on their bodies, this caused them to look like fluffy, feathery hearts. The pond is packed with turtles, some large and some very tiny. There was one in particular that was probably the largest with two red stripes down its shell. I didn't get to do much with these animals, but I found it nice to just watch them behave in their own habitat.
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Encounter with crow.
By Luis Alberto Velazquez (04/26/14 22:03:22)
Related animal: Crow
I want to share what happened today while walking near the library in campus. A crow was trying to open a small plastic container. It would pick it up with it's beak, fly up about 20 feet and drop it. It used the same tactic about 4 times, hoping it would open or break, after a while the crow seemed exhausted but still determined to open the container.
I decided to get close to investigate. The crow flew to the nearest tree, probably cursing at me for taking the precious container. It was a small ranch dressing container. I opened it and carefully placed it on the grass and walked away, seconds later the crow flew back to it and started eating the dressing. I watched from far away and at some point the crow even looked at me. I have created art about crows in the past, but never had a connection (if I can call it that). I feel like we collaborated some how.
I watched this really cool documentary about how smart crows are here is the link
http://video.pbs.org/video/1621910826/
[Write Comment]
By Luis Alberto Velazquez (04/26/14 22:03:22)
Related animal: Crow
I want to share what happened today while walking near the library in campus. A crow was trying to open a small plastic container. It would pick it up with it's beak, fly up about 20 feet and drop it. It used the same tactic about 4 times, hoping it would open or break, after a while the crow seemed exhausted but still determined to open the container.
I decided to get close to investigate. The crow flew to the nearest tree, probably cursing at me for taking the precious container. It was a small ranch dressing container. I opened it and carefully placed it on the grass and walked away, seconds later the crow flew back to it and started eating the dressing. I watched from far away and at some point the crow even looked at me. I have created art about crows in the past, but never had a connection (if I can call it that). I feel like we collaborated some how.
I watched this really cool documentary about how smart crows are here is the link
http://video.pbs.org/video/1621910826/
[Write Comment]
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Fear of Domestication?
By Heather Sielke (04/21/10 08:07:47)
This text was intriguing at some points just to see what the author was going to say next and other points I just could not focus for anything. The most interesting thing to me was how postmodern artists have a fear of pets and seem to like the wild. The author writes about how our pets are becoming reflections of ourselves. I can see how that could happen with a dog but I feel it might be the opposite with cats. My cats only let me touch them when they wanted to be touch or even be near them when they feel they want company. They are the boss over me. My cat Twinkle Bell starts meowing at 630ish to tell us she wants to be fed and won't stop until she has the food in front of her. I am trying to ween another hour out of her but she is more training me that she is the master. To say that we desire the wild is a weird statement nowadays because people are everywhere and I would bet it is hard to find an animal that has never seen a human or been influenced by a human's decision.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Heather Sielke (04/21/10 08:07:47)
This text was intriguing at some points just to see what the author was going to say next and other points I just could not focus for anything. The most interesting thing to me was how postmodern artists have a fear of pets and seem to like the wild. The author writes about how our pets are becoming reflections of ourselves. I can see how that could happen with a dog but I feel it might be the opposite with cats. My cats only let me touch them when they wanted to be touch or even be near them when they feel they want company. They are the boss over me. My cat Twinkle Bell starts meowing at 630ish to tell us she wants to be fed and won't stop until she has the food in front of her. I am trying to ween another hour out of her but she is more training me that she is the master. To say that we desire the wild is a weird statement nowadays because people are everywhere and I would bet it is hard to find an animal that has never seen a human or been influenced by a human's decision.
Fear of Familliar
By Michael Martinez (06/06/10 22:25:45)
In the Article Fear of the Familiar the author, discuss the desire for the post modern movement to move away from the use of common animals such as house pets in the use of artistic collaborations. Instead the movement focuses on the use of wild animals or untamed animals since they do not imprint from their owners.
While i find this to be an intriguing point of view i don't entirely agree with it. The main push for the abandonment of pets for collaboration is because they are familiar. Hence the title of the article. Because of their association with humans they no longer have their natural instincts.
However i feel that all animals have some form of familiarity to them. by the very fact that humans exist it would be impossible to assume that no animal has ever been effected in some part by humans and their interactions with their environments as a whole. So not only have animals been effected by humans, they have also been studies. by studying them we know how they act and their behavioral tendencies. all together i think these factors make wild animals more familiar than not.
That is how i feel about that mentality that wild animals lack a predictability than house pets or more common animals.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Martinez (06/06/10 22:25:45)
In the Article Fear of the Familiar the author, discuss the desire for the post modern movement to move away from the use of common animals such as house pets in the use of artistic collaborations. Instead the movement focuses on the use of wild animals or untamed animals since they do not imprint from their owners.
While i find this to be an intriguing point of view i don't entirely agree with it. The main push for the abandonment of pets for collaboration is because they are familiar. Hence the title of the article. Because of their association with humans they no longer have their natural instincts.
However i feel that all animals have some form of familiarity to them. by the very fact that humans exist it would be impossible to assume that no animal has ever been effected in some part by humans and their interactions with their environments as a whole. So not only have animals been effected by humans, they have also been studies. by studying them we know how they act and their behavioral tendencies. all together i think these factors make wild animals more familiar than not.
That is how i feel about that mentality that wild animals lack a predictability than house pets or more common animals.
[Write Comment]
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Fear of the Familiar
By Serena Zahler (04/18/10 19:14:46)
I found the article's discussion on artist's fear of domesticated animals in their work very interesting. The article explains that artists' fear the sentimentality of the love and partnership with their pets will cause people to not take their artwork seriously. Artists often use explanations like the work is from "direct observation" (181). Artist's also insisting on the pets individuality may show an over-investment in the animal to hold the work's meaning (181). I wonder how this will effect the artwork made in our 130 class? Will viewer's perceive the work made with students' pets as less interesting and take them less seriously than works created with animals found in our surrounding environment? I will definitely consider this pet vs wild animal argument when doing my interespecies collaboration.
I also really enjoyed the work by Olly and Suzi. I think there is something carnal in the way they create work inspired by wild animals and let it be destroyed in honor of the animal subject. I encourage people to look at their website to see more about their work.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (04/18/10 19:14:46)
I found the article's discussion on artist's fear of domesticated animals in their work very interesting. The article explains that artists' fear the sentimentality of the love and partnership with their pets will cause people to not take their artwork seriously. Artists often use explanations like the work is from "direct observation" (181). Artist's also insisting on the pets individuality may show an over-investment in the animal to hold the work's meaning (181). I wonder how this will effect the artwork made in our 130 class? Will viewer's perceive the work made with students' pets as less interesting and take them less seriously than works created with animals found in our surrounding environment? I will definitely consider this pet vs wild animal argument when doing my interespecies collaboration.
I also really enjoyed the work by Olly and Suzi. I think there is something carnal in the way they create work inspired by wild animals and let it be destroyed in honor of the animal subject. I encourage people to look at their website to see more about their work.
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Fear of the Familiar
By Danusia Young (04/19/10 23:36:18)
Related animal: Dog
In the Chapter #8 of The Postmodern Animal, Steve Baker explores how animal imagery has been used in modern and contemporary art and performance, and in postmodern philosophy and literature. Baker persuasively analyses the work of such European and American artists as Olly and Suzi, Mark Dion, Paula Rego and Sue Coe etc… Baker suggests that the continuing attraction of the animal for artists, philosophers and others is the perception that the animal is in some way aligned with creativity. He points that human beings look for the same trades or characteristic in animal as they seek in themselves. It is very difficult to think of how humans can produce meanings that are not at the some level going to be human-centered and anthropomorphic. When artist create work from that perspective his piece can be labeled as “sentimental in relation to the animal”. Many people, according to Baker, would say that sentimentality has been given an overly bad name in relation to human thinking about animals. But because so many artist have pets them-selves I do not think that they will view being sentimental toward any animal something that is terrible. On the other hand, they know that they are working in an environment where they really can't afford to have their art labeled as sentimental. Sentimentalism will remove immediately any degree of seriousness or critical engagement from their art piece. As Baker points the artists have to keep their animal oriented art pieces on the right side of that division between serious art and sentimental one. I think that another very interesting statement is:” For many contemporary artists, too, the way they deal with animals reflects the way they see themselves as artists” (169).
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Danusia Young (04/19/10 23:36:18)
Related animal: Dog
In the Chapter #8 of The Postmodern Animal, Steve Baker explores how animal imagery has been used in modern and contemporary art and performance, and in postmodern philosophy and literature. Baker persuasively analyses the work of such European and American artists as Olly and Suzi, Mark Dion, Paula Rego and Sue Coe etc… Baker suggests that the continuing attraction of the animal for artists, philosophers and others is the perception that the animal is in some way aligned with creativity. He points that human beings look for the same trades or characteristic in animal as they seek in themselves. It is very difficult to think of how humans can produce meanings that are not at the some level going to be human-centered and anthropomorphic. When artist create work from that perspective his piece can be labeled as “sentimental in relation to the animal”. Many people, according to Baker, would say that sentimentality has been given an overly bad name in relation to human thinking about animals. But because so many artist have pets them-selves I do not think that they will view being sentimental toward any animal something that is terrible. On the other hand, they know that they are working in an environment where they really can't afford to have their art labeled as sentimental. Sentimentalism will remove immediately any degree of seriousness or critical engagement from their art piece. As Baker points the artists have to keep their animal oriented art pieces on the right side of that division between serious art and sentimental one. I think that another very interesting statement is:” For many contemporary artists, too, the way they deal with animals reflects the way they see themselves as artists” (169).
Fear of the Familiar
By Lillian Shanahan (04/21/10 15:25:30)
Related animal: Domestic Pet
I found Bakers article kind of mundane. I think its important to review your relationship with animals, but I don't think there needs to be a discussion about pets verses wild. The post- modernistic idea that animals should be wild and that having sentimentality for animals is dangerous, or makes you a fool- is kind of a trivial statement.
who cares if the animal is wild or not, trying to say that animals should be "wild" is going against what the post- modernists claim to be/ do (which is break down these categories and definitions) what is wild anyways- and why is wild pure? or better than domestic. Who is to say that the animals do not enjoy their relationship with humans. Not that I agree with having pets- because I don't, but I also don't agree that people should hold wild up on a pedestal. Who's to say human beings aren't still wild in out metropolitan jungle.
I do agree that owning animals is common in capitalistic societies and that it is kind of ridiculous when there are starving people in the world and people are buying clothing for their cats. I also think that people buys animals because they can't achieve normal social interactions, or they aren't receiving attention, love frmm other human beings... which again is common in capitalistic environments because people are often caught up in meaningless occupations and materialistic motives,
I don't see having sentimentality as dangerous or wrong, I see it as the human gift, we are capable of feeling for others, for having compassion, I don't see that as anthropomorphic. Because I know the animal is what it is, and it may not think or feel like me- but is that to say it doesn't feel or think in its own way?
I am against anthropomorphic ideas, because they are a food source and we much feed on them to survive. But I don't think we should dismiss that they are also incapable of thoughts.
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (04/21/10 15:25:30)
Related animal: Domestic Pet
I found Bakers article kind of mundane. I think its important to review your relationship with animals, but I don't think there needs to be a discussion about pets verses wild. The post- modernistic idea that animals should be wild and that having sentimentality for animals is dangerous, or makes you a fool- is kind of a trivial statement.
who cares if the animal is wild or not, trying to say that animals should be "wild" is going against what the post- modernists claim to be/ do (which is break down these categories and definitions) what is wild anyways- and why is wild pure? or better than domestic. Who is to say that the animals do not enjoy their relationship with humans. Not that I agree with having pets- because I don't, but I also don't agree that people should hold wild up on a pedestal. Who's to say human beings aren't still wild in out metropolitan jungle.
I do agree that owning animals is common in capitalistic societies and that it is kind of ridiculous when there are starving people in the world and people are buying clothing for their cats. I also think that people buys animals because they can't achieve normal social interactions, or they aren't receiving attention, love frmm other human beings... which again is common in capitalistic environments because people are often caught up in meaningless occupations and materialistic motives,
I don't see having sentimentality as dangerous or wrong, I see it as the human gift, we are capable of feeling for others, for having compassion, I don't see that as anthropomorphic. Because I know the animal is what it is, and it may not think or feel like me- but is that to say it doesn't feel or think in its own way?
I am against anthropomorphic ideas, because they are a food source and we much feed on them to survive. But I don't think we should dismiss that they are also incapable of thoughts.
[Write Comment]
Fear of the Familiar
By Tanasa Slovin (04/22/10 00:16:23)
Related animal: Cat
While Steve Baker’s article in The Postmodern Animal, Fear of the Familiar was a bit dense and a little difficult to comprehend, however I do understand his main points on the subject of postmodernism within relation to animals. Baker defines his view of postmodernism “as the scourge of anthropomorphism, anthropocentrism and all other tendencies to reduce difference to sameness, the impure to the pure, the inhuman to the human and the strange to the meaningful” (p. 100). I also found the three different categories of animals to be an interesting view as opposed to Berger’s view. Baker references Deleuze and Guattari’s categories of animals that include: those that admire, those who are known as ‘State animals’ who have fixed symbolic meanings that serve towards human interests, and then there is the individuated animals, such as family pets, etc. It was also interesting that even the name of your animal, such as a dog, can be relatively detrimental to the owner and the pet itself. “You don’t want dogs called Spot or Pooch. You don’t want dogs called Nigel or Keith. The names of dogs should salute the mystical drama of the animal life” (p. 169). My dogs name is Bradley Baxter III, I don’t think Baker would necessarily approve…
When our class was introduced to the Carolee Schneemann, Infinity Kisses, one word automatically came to my mind: bestiality. As I read on with Baker’s text, he referenced Barbara Schnieder as identifying actual “art bestiality”. This is rather disturbing to me, as it should be to, well, everyone! Sure, I give my dog kisses and hugs but this has gone too far. What I find more disturbing is the title that Schneemann called her video, “Vesper’s Stampede to My Holy Mouth”. Personally, this type of “interspecies erotic imagery” is not considered art in my point of view. Baker states, “The threat of pets to the postmodern individual’s self-image can be seen in the cynical view that a sympathy for pets represents’ a “gratuitous perversion” of natural beaviour….” (p. 172).
When discussing the relationship between sentimentality and postmodernism, James Serpell states that, “…people who express concern for animal suffering or affection of sentimentality, as if having sentiments or feelings for other species were a sign of weakness, intellectual flabbiness or mental disturbance” (p. 176). I find this statement completely bizarre and false, especially with Singer’s symbolism that sentimentality makes someone ‘womanish’. This is not only sexist, it is naïve and to be honest a bit homophobic.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (04/22/10 00:16:23)
Related animal: Cat
While Steve Baker’s article in The Postmodern Animal, Fear of the Familiar was a bit dense and a little difficult to comprehend, however I do understand his main points on the subject of postmodernism within relation to animals. Baker defines his view of postmodernism “as the scourge of anthropomorphism, anthropocentrism and all other tendencies to reduce difference to sameness, the impure to the pure, the inhuman to the human and the strange to the meaningful” (p. 100). I also found the three different categories of animals to be an interesting view as opposed to Berger’s view. Baker references Deleuze and Guattari’s categories of animals that include: those that admire, those who are known as ‘State animals’ who have fixed symbolic meanings that serve towards human interests, and then there is the individuated animals, such as family pets, etc. It was also interesting that even the name of your animal, such as a dog, can be relatively detrimental to the owner and the pet itself. “You don’t want dogs called Spot or Pooch. You don’t want dogs called Nigel or Keith. The names of dogs should salute the mystical drama of the animal life” (p. 169). My dogs name is Bradley Baxter III, I don’t think Baker would necessarily approve…
When our class was introduced to the Carolee Schneemann, Infinity Kisses, one word automatically came to my mind: bestiality. As I read on with Baker’s text, he referenced Barbara Schnieder as identifying actual “art bestiality”. This is rather disturbing to me, as it should be to, well, everyone! Sure, I give my dog kisses and hugs but this has gone too far. What I find more disturbing is the title that Schneemann called her video, “Vesper’s Stampede to My Holy Mouth”. Personally, this type of “interspecies erotic imagery” is not considered art in my point of view. Baker states, “The threat of pets to the postmodern individual’s self-image can be seen in the cynical view that a sympathy for pets represents’ a “gratuitous perversion” of natural beaviour….” (p. 172).
When discussing the relationship between sentimentality and postmodernism, James Serpell states that, “…people who express concern for animal suffering or affection of sentimentality, as if having sentiments or feelings for other species were a sign of weakness, intellectual flabbiness or mental disturbance” (p. 176). I find this statement completely bizarre and false, especially with Singer’s symbolism that sentimentality makes someone ‘womanish’. This is not only sexist, it is naïve and to be honest a bit homophobic.
Fear of the Familiar
By Royce Chun (04/22/10 17:33:51)
I found the article's discussion on an artist's fear of pets very interesting. The article talks about how sentimentality affects and artist’s work and how wild animals are much preferred over domesticated animals. One of the reasons for the fear is that the public may take an artist’s work with a domesticated less seriously because it seems more like play than work. This is because a relationship already exists between and owner and a pet. This relationship can cause the domesticated animals to act much differently to their wild counterparts and are very likely to act according to how their human has raised them. Work with wild animals are preferred because the work would be inherently more innovative since the animals would have their own self-constructed way of going about their lives.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Royce Chun (04/22/10 17:33:51)
I found the article's discussion on an artist's fear of pets very interesting. The article talks about how sentimentality affects and artist’s work and how wild animals are much preferred over domesticated animals. One of the reasons for the fear is that the public may take an artist’s work with a domesticated less seriously because it seems more like play than work. This is because a relationship already exists between and owner and a pet. This relationship can cause the domesticated animals to act much differently to their wild counterparts and are very likely to act according to how their human has raised them. Work with wild animals are preferred because the work would be inherently more innovative since the animals would have their own self-constructed way of going about their lives.
Fear of the Familiar
By Kirsten Howard (04/23/10 14:24:51)
This text was interesting in its regards to post-modernism in relation to working with select animals in art. I agree that it seems almost forbidden to work with the familiar, especially in regard to working with domesticated animals/pets. It made me think of something my photography TA told my class a couple years ago on the first day: that he didn't want any pictures of people's dogs. I suppose its just been done a lot or perhaps is seen as cliche. However, after reading the article, it seems that banning work that deals with a certain group of animals is not in conjunction with the core ideas of post-modernism at all. Post-modernism is supposed to be partially about not having any boundaries or class-scales with regard to race, sex, etc. Therefore, it should hold true that all animals are equal in appeal for artistic representation. And yet, the article says post-modern artists don't want to work with domesticated animals. This is highly contradictory. Also, the last question we talked about in class, about love and knowledge was interesting too. Someone said that it is a love for knowledge that drives the artists to work with wild animals. However, I believe that a true love for something comes out of love itself, a genuine goodness of nature and not something that needs to have the result of knowledge.
Genuine love is not driven by the desire for result or knowledge.
[Write Comment]
By Kirsten Howard (04/23/10 14:24:51)
This text was interesting in its regards to post-modernism in relation to working with select animals in art. I agree that it seems almost forbidden to work with the familiar, especially in regard to working with domesticated animals/pets. It made me think of something my photography TA told my class a couple years ago on the first day: that he didn't want any pictures of people's dogs. I suppose its just been done a lot or perhaps is seen as cliche. However, after reading the article, it seems that banning work that deals with a certain group of animals is not in conjunction with the core ideas of post-modernism at all. Post-modernism is supposed to be partially about not having any boundaries or class-scales with regard to race, sex, etc. Therefore, it should hold true that all animals are equal in appeal for artistic representation. And yet, the article says post-modern artists don't want to work with domesticated animals. This is highly contradictory. Also, the last question we talked about in class, about love and knowledge was interesting too. Someone said that it is a love for knowledge that drives the artists to work with wild animals. However, I believe that a true love for something comes out of love itself, a genuine goodness of nature and not something that needs to have the result of knowledge.
Genuine love is not driven by the desire for result or knowledge.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Speciesism and Animal Rights
Fear of the Familiar
By Jeffrey Jacobs (04/26/10 09:16:25)
Fear of the Familiar
I thought that this was an interesting reading about the structure of the movement designed to break down structure known as Post-modernism. It is a confusing topic because it seems to be filled with so many contradictions, and the very thought of giving it definition seems to defy its defining principles. The idea is that post-modernists seek to abandon any structure put in place on them by artists and movements past. However, the very idea of creating a successive movement to do so seems utterly ridiculous. What is the point? One thing that I thought was particularly interesting were the ideas regarding the connection of postmodernist thought and the ideas of animal rights activists. Post modernists seek to abolish constructs such as sexism and racism. They are against the differentiation of people and places and seek to level the playing field on every level. Animal activists do the same thing but for animals. They try to get people to realize that humans should not think they are better than all other species so that they stop thinking its okay to take advantage of them. I agree with the post modernists and the animal rights activists in these regards.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (04/26/10 09:16:25)
Fear of the Familiar
I thought that this was an interesting reading about the structure of the movement designed to break down structure known as Post-modernism. It is a confusing topic because it seems to be filled with so many contradictions, and the very thought of giving it definition seems to defy its defining principles. The idea is that post-modernists seek to abandon any structure put in place on them by artists and movements past. However, the very idea of creating a successive movement to do so seems utterly ridiculous. What is the point? One thing that I thought was particularly interesting were the ideas regarding the connection of postmodernist thought and the ideas of animal rights activists. Post modernists seek to abolish constructs such as sexism and racism. They are against the differentiation of people and places and seek to level the playing field on every level. Animal activists do the same thing but for animals. They try to get people to realize that humans should not think they are better than all other species so that they stop thinking its okay to take advantage of them. I agree with the post modernists and the animal rights activists in these regards.
[Write Comment]
fear of the familiar
By Jenna Ferri (06/04/10 18:44:55)
I didn't holistically agree with the basis of this article. The fact that collaborating with wild animals is continued ideal and more pure seems like you are eliminating an entire species of domesticated animals that have adapted and have a different outlook than the others. However, a more interesting way would be to consider the difference between collaborating with the two types of animals namely domestic and wild and see if they form different conclusions.
I worked with both on my project (although it could be argued that the "wild" animals I worked with a the zoo really weren't wild) I found equal cooperation with both sets of animals and the only real difference was that domestic animals were more willing and able to collaborate because of their learned trust of the human race.
After watching the grizzly movies, I think it is too different to expect to collaborate with wild animals. Both of the movies of people who were collaborating with bears were playing with fire and fate. Only the elder research couple in my opinion was truly getting the essence of the race my raising the young cubs.
This article had some interesting points but I didnt feel all of them were valid!
[Write Comment]
By Jenna Ferri (06/04/10 18:44:55)
I didn't holistically agree with the basis of this article. The fact that collaborating with wild animals is continued ideal and more pure seems like you are eliminating an entire species of domesticated animals that have adapted and have a different outlook than the others. However, a more interesting way would be to consider the difference between collaborating with the two types of animals namely domestic and wild and see if they form different conclusions.
I worked with both on my project (although it could be argued that the "wild" animals I worked with a the zoo really weren't wild) I found equal cooperation with both sets of animals and the only real difference was that domestic animals were more willing and able to collaborate because of their learned trust of the human race.
After watching the grizzly movies, I think it is too different to expect to collaborate with wild animals. Both of the movies of people who were collaborating with bears were playing with fire and fate. Only the elder research couple in my opinion was truly getting the essence of the race my raising the young cubs.
This article had some interesting points but I didnt feel all of them were valid!
[Write Comment]
Other: Interspecies Communication
Fear of the Familiar
By Evan Hynes (06/08/10 01:15:40)
I found this article fascinating. It touched on the difference between domesticated animals and wild animals in collaboration with an artist. The artist wrote about how collaboration with a domesticated animal is looked down upon in art as not serious because it seems to be more like play than anything else. We train domesticated animals to love to be played with and interacted with, so they respond positively in the way we raised them to, whereas wild, undomesticated animals react to human interaction based on their instinct and what they learned in the wild. Chances are, wild animals do not understand that we mean to play with them, or even understand what playing with another species (and a human at that) is. Therefore, this artists chooses to work with non-domesticated animals because their action and reaction to his actions have not been tainted by previous conditioning. if I had to choose between working with a pet and a wild animal I would definitely choose to work with a wild animal for the same reason as the artist.
[Write Comment]
By Evan Hynes (06/08/10 01:15:40)
I found this article fascinating. It touched on the difference between domesticated animals and wild animals in collaboration with an artist. The artist wrote about how collaboration with a domesticated animal is looked down upon in art as not serious because it seems to be more like play than anything else. We train domesticated animals to love to be played with and interacted with, so they respond positively in the way we raised them to, whereas wild, undomesticated animals react to human interaction based on their instinct and what they learned in the wild. Chances are, wild animals do not understand that we mean to play with them, or even understand what playing with another species (and a human at that) is. Therefore, this artists chooses to work with non-domesticated animals because their action and reaction to his actions have not been tainted by previous conditioning. if I had to choose between working with a pet and a wild animal I would definitely choose to work with a wild animal for the same reason as the artist.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Fear of the Familiar
By Sean Turner (06/14/10 11:14:29)
After reading Fear of the Familiar, I realized that there is way too much classification of animals. They are separated into several categories such as house pets, game, and wild animals, just to name a few. In order to better understand these animals, we need to put them all on a level playing field and not harbor preconceived notions about these animals and their behavior. Most all animals, depending on their personal disposition, are capable of being members of all of these categories. I agree with some thoughts in this article that point out that sentimentality is strongly tied with connecting certain animals to their respective categories. Much of the "love" that humans feel toward animals is driven not by their particular relationship with the animal, but the physical appearance of the animal and its ability to relate to humans. It is an "over-investment in an animal's appearance." Many of the r-selected species, who are often smaller, uglier, and in larger numbers, aren't seen as individuals, and thus not loved in the same way as a more commonly domesticated animal like a dog.
I do not agree with the statement that a domesticated animal is a "living betrayal of its properly animal potential or trajectory." As humans, who are we to decide what is natural for an animal. After all, didn't humans evolve from animals? Our human trajectory is obviously to civilize and dominate our environment, and perhaps it is in the animals' best interest to also become more civilized and safe from the harsh, unpredictable outside world.
I do not believe that the Infinity Kisses piece should even be considered art. To me, it is just a few pictures of a weird lady who is way to obsessed with her cat. The only thing that comes to my mind is bestiality, and that is wrong no matter how good of friends you think you are with your cat. It is ok to take pictures with your cat, but taking it any further is crossing a line that shouldn't be crossed.
Sentimentality seems to be a very controversial subject when it comes to animals. I believe that animals are not that different from humans, and that it is normal to develop feelings for them. However, I think that humans are very discriminatory when it comes to feeling sentimentality toward animals. It seems that humans only allow themselves to feel for animals when the animals feel back. This reciprocal relationship is rare between humans and other species, and that is why humans generally feel more sentimentality toward responsive and "loving" animals such as dogs instead of ants.
[Write Comment]
By Sean Turner (06/14/10 11:14:29)
After reading Fear of the Familiar, I realized that there is way too much classification of animals. They are separated into several categories such as house pets, game, and wild animals, just to name a few. In order to better understand these animals, we need to put them all on a level playing field and not harbor preconceived notions about these animals and their behavior. Most all animals, depending on their personal disposition, are capable of being members of all of these categories. I agree with some thoughts in this article that point out that sentimentality is strongly tied with connecting certain animals to their respective categories. Much of the "love" that humans feel toward animals is driven not by their particular relationship with the animal, but the physical appearance of the animal and its ability to relate to humans. It is an "over-investment in an animal's appearance." Many of the r-selected species, who are often smaller, uglier, and in larger numbers, aren't seen as individuals, and thus not loved in the same way as a more commonly domesticated animal like a dog.
I do not agree with the statement that a domesticated animal is a "living betrayal of its properly animal potential or trajectory." As humans, who are we to decide what is natural for an animal. After all, didn't humans evolve from animals? Our human trajectory is obviously to civilize and dominate our environment, and perhaps it is in the animals' best interest to also become more civilized and safe from the harsh, unpredictable outside world.
I do not believe that the Infinity Kisses piece should even be considered art. To me, it is just a few pictures of a weird lady who is way to obsessed with her cat. The only thing that comes to my mind is bestiality, and that is wrong no matter how good of friends you think you are with your cat. It is ok to take pictures with your cat, but taking it any further is crossing a line that shouldn't be crossed.
Sentimentality seems to be a very controversial subject when it comes to animals. I believe that animals are not that different from humans, and that it is normal to develop feelings for them. However, I think that humans are very discriminatory when it comes to feeling sentimentality toward animals. It seems that humans only allow themselves to feel for animals when the animals feel back. This reciprocal relationship is rare between humans and other species, and that is why humans generally feel more sentimentality toward responsive and "loving" animals such as dogs instead of ants.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Final Thoughts
By Tessa Tapscott (06/08/13 21:22:08)
Related animal: Human
When I told people I was taking a class called Interspecies Relations I was met with blank stares and confused looks. “Wait, that’s an art class?” was a common response. Many of my non-art and non-animal related acquaintances brushed off my explanations, relegating it into the realm of “artsy, tree-hugging” that went beyond their point of contemplation. However, for me, this class was one of the most interesting, eye opening and thought provoking classes I have had the chance to take in my time at UCSB. I thought that I began the class with a relatively open mind about many interspecies related subjects, but I still learned so much from each class lecture, movie and reading. As an avid animal lover and advocate I found myself looking forward to each class as a chance to not only express and broaden my own views, but to hear those of my peers and educators.
Ever since I graduated junior high I have rarely had the chance to go on a field trip, but this class offered so many enjoyable ones. The chance to not only go to the Channel Islands, but to stay there, even if just for a night, was something I could not pass up. It was truly an amazing experience to wake up in nature, but also live on an island that was so sparsely populated and allowed to grow unencumbered. That kind of open space if so rare to find these days, I hope that the Channel Islands can remain that way.
One of the things that I found most interesting about the class was that many of the non-art majors also seemed to gain so much from the class, while simultaneously, I am so glad that we were able to hear the views of a diverse array of students after being locked into semi-pretentious art related discussions with only other art majors. The final show proved how much people learned and grew over the quarter and the dedication each student felt to expressing their views with the help of their non-human collaborators. While our show seemed slightly disorganized in the preparations, I think the end result was certainly something to be proud of and I think many of the visitors were surprised and pleased to interact with the work that the class provided.
It is with a heavy heart that I must leave UCSB, but I am so thankful I was offered the opportunity to take a class that seemed not only tailor-made for me, but also opened up my options as an artist, a human and collaborator. I hope to do more work with and about animals in the future in the hopes of figuring out how to be less speciest or to even figure out what that means in terms of making art with animals.
[Write Comment]
By Tessa Tapscott (06/08/13 21:22:08)
Related animal: Human
When I told people I was taking a class called Interspecies Relations I was met with blank stares and confused looks. “Wait, that’s an art class?” was a common response. Many of my non-art and non-animal related acquaintances brushed off my explanations, relegating it into the realm of “artsy, tree-hugging” that went beyond their point of contemplation. However, for me, this class was one of the most interesting, eye opening and thought provoking classes I have had the chance to take in my time at UCSB. I thought that I began the class with a relatively open mind about many interspecies related subjects, but I still learned so much from each class lecture, movie and reading. As an avid animal lover and advocate I found myself looking forward to each class as a chance to not only express and broaden my own views, but to hear those of my peers and educators.
Ever since I graduated junior high I have rarely had the chance to go on a field trip, but this class offered so many enjoyable ones. The chance to not only go to the Channel Islands, but to stay there, even if just for a night, was something I could not pass up. It was truly an amazing experience to wake up in nature, but also live on an island that was so sparsely populated and allowed to grow unencumbered. That kind of open space if so rare to find these days, I hope that the Channel Islands can remain that way.
One of the things that I found most interesting about the class was that many of the non-art majors also seemed to gain so much from the class, while simultaneously, I am so glad that we were able to hear the views of a diverse array of students after being locked into semi-pretentious art related discussions with only other art majors. The final show proved how much people learned and grew over the quarter and the dedication each student felt to expressing their views with the help of their non-human collaborators. While our show seemed slightly disorganized in the preparations, I think the end result was certainly something to be proud of and I think many of the visitors were surprised and pleased to interact with the work that the class provided.
It is with a heavy heart that I must leave UCSB, but I am so thankful I was offered the opportunity to take a class that seemed not only tailor-made for me, but also opened up my options as an artist, a human and collaborator. I hope to do more work with and about animals in the future in the hopes of figuring out how to be less speciest or to even figure out what that means in terms of making art with animals.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
First Reading Assignment
By Sara Selmic (04/18/13 17:55:33)
Related animals: Anemone, Bear, Clownfish, Human, Mallard Duck, Science Experiment, Turkey
The chapters that have been assigned from Jim Nollan's book have been very interesting and informative. In the first chapter his exploration with the turkey is very insightful. I like how he progresses from experimenting with the animal to simply playing his music with it. I'm glad that he got to make a song with the turkeys later on, but confused why he would let it become something that would be played during Thanksgiving. This is extremely wrong to me. I do however agree with what he said about how when people grow older they lose touch with nature. I can definitely see how this happens, especially because I feel like animals become less mysterious as we grow up. We know more and therefore assume much about animals. I think its good to maintain this curiosity about all animals, even things as small as ants or as creepy as spiders.
Nollan's interpretation of interspecies protocol is an interesting one. I find that humans and animals are so separate from one another to the point that they fear each other. I don't believe this is how we should be coexisting. I often find it difficult to interact with animals because they run away. For example, I was trying to admire some ducks that were in a fenced off pond, I came up to the fence and all the ducks resting on the bank either ran or swam away. I didn't get it, I couldn't even touch them, but I was just too close for their comfort. This was very disheartening as I just wanted to observe them doing their duck things, but because of humans they have encountered in the past them feared me too. Nollan touches on this when he talks about the bears in Canada that behave like they do because of humans who have consistently shot them on site. I understand that a bear is a frightful thing, but only because of some bear misconception that was created somewhere down the line. I am glad Nollan writes of these things and chooses to comment on why the language and attitude we have with animals must be positive and different than it is now in order for a change to occur. I'm hoping one day more people will think like this guy does.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Sara Selmic (04/18/13 17:55:33)
Related animals: Anemone, Bear, Clownfish, Human, Mallard Duck, Science Experiment, Turkey
The chapters that have been assigned from Jim Nollan's book have been very interesting and informative. In the first chapter his exploration with the turkey is very insightful. I like how he progresses from experimenting with the animal to simply playing his music with it. I'm glad that he got to make a song with the turkeys later on, but confused why he would let it become something that would be played during Thanksgiving. This is extremely wrong to me. I do however agree with what he said about how when people grow older they lose touch with nature. I can definitely see how this happens, especially because I feel like animals become less mysterious as we grow up. We know more and therefore assume much about animals. I think its good to maintain this curiosity about all animals, even things as small as ants or as creepy as spiders.
Nollan's interpretation of interspecies protocol is an interesting one. I find that humans and animals are so separate from one another to the point that they fear each other. I don't believe this is how we should be coexisting. I often find it difficult to interact with animals because they run away. For example, I was trying to admire some ducks that were in a fenced off pond, I came up to the fence and all the ducks resting on the bank either ran or swam away. I didn't get it, I couldn't even touch them, but I was just too close for their comfort. This was very disheartening as I just wanted to observe them doing their duck things, but because of humans they have encountered in the past them feared me too. Nollan touches on this when he talks about the bears in Canada that behave like they do because of humans who have consistently shot them on site. I understand that a bear is a frightful thing, but only because of some bear misconception that was created somewhere down the line. I am glad Nollan writes of these things and chooses to comment on why the language and attitude we have with animals must be positive and different than it is now in order for a change to occur. I'm hoping one day more people will think like this guy does.
First Readings
By Jorden Hirsch (04/11/10 19:52:31)
I found most of what Jim Nollan discusses in Chapter 1 and 4 of the Man Who Talks to Animals to be very relatable and agreeable to an animal lover like myself. One of the things I did find interesting in the first chapter was Nolan’s’ almost stereotypes of scientist and how they believe they viewed animals. I found his way of grouping scientist and their behavior as one collective thought ironic, in that he was asking us essentially in the book to not think of animals as representations of their species but as individuals, with individual traits and opinions. Other than that I found Nollan’s writing incredibly intriguing, I agree with his point that he as human should not assume that animals communicate in the same ways as we do. It is egotistical of us to think that as one species all these other thousands of species see things our way. I feel like I have seen examples of this when dealing with dogs in my family. Typically when training dogs you use gestural signs or tones/volumes of your voice to communicate, even though most people thing it may be the words your saying that effect the dogs, I believe it’s with the tone that you say certain words that really trigger certain reactions within them.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Jorden Hirsch (04/11/10 19:52:31)
I found most of what Jim Nollan discusses in Chapter 1 and 4 of the Man Who Talks to Animals to be very relatable and agreeable to an animal lover like myself. One of the things I did find interesting in the first chapter was Nolan’s’ almost stereotypes of scientist and how they believe they viewed animals. I found his way of grouping scientist and their behavior as one collective thought ironic, in that he was asking us essentially in the book to not think of animals as representations of their species but as individuals, with individual traits and opinions. Other than that I found Nollan’s writing incredibly intriguing, I agree with his point that he as human should not assume that animals communicate in the same ways as we do. It is egotistical of us to think that as one species all these other thousands of species see things our way. I feel like I have seen examples of this when dealing with dogs in my family. Typically when training dogs you use gestural signs or tones/volumes of your voice to communicate, even though most people thing it may be the words your saying that effect the dogs, I believe it’s with the tone that you say certain words that really trigger certain reactions within them.
First steps
By leona chen (04/05/09 15:58:09)
Related animal: Elephant
I have begun to look inventively on the internet and around me for different ideas of what I could possibly do for my collaboration. I am a big fan of YouTube, sadly. One of my favorite categories is the Pets & Animals section. Since I have joined this class, I noticed more different videos that I typically wouldn't look at. I am trying to dig deeper than the surface of animal collaboration. So far, I have discovered many helpful videos about what we are learning in class. Hopefully these videos will assist me in my creative process and I hope it does the same for others because I have posted them as resources on this website.
[Write Comment]
By leona chen (04/05/09 15:58:09)
Related animal: Elephant
I have begun to look inventively on the internet and around me for different ideas of what I could possibly do for my collaboration. I am a big fan of YouTube, sadly. One of my favorite categories is the Pets & Animals section. Since I have joined this class, I noticed more different videos that I typically wouldn't look at. I am trying to dig deeper than the surface of animal collaboration. So far, I have discovered many helpful videos about what we are learning in class. Hopefully these videos will assist me in my creative process and I hope it does the same for others because I have posted them as resources on this website.
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Reflection: Animal Communication
First Trip to the Bird Sanctuary
By Ashley Dawkins-Garcia (04/26/09 11:04:51)
Related animal: Parrot
This was my first trip to the Bird Sanctuary in Summerland. I wasn't sure what to expect or do when I went there but when I met the owner of the place and her cockatoo Dolly, I was surprised how social parrots were. When I went back, most of the parrots and other birds weren't too sure about me but when I went down to visit the other birds they were a bit more open to me. It wasn't until a few minutes that I had a bunch of screaming birds yelling at me and saying words like "I love you!" and "Hi!" to get my attention.
I have to say I really enjoyed my time there. The birds were fun to talk and just hanging out with. I plan to make a project dealing with music and their singing and I will probably do more projects with them.
[Write Comment]
By Ashley Dawkins-Garcia (04/26/09 11:04:51)
Related animal: Parrot
This was my first trip to the Bird Sanctuary in Summerland. I wasn't sure what to expect or do when I went there but when I met the owner of the place and her cockatoo Dolly, I was surprised how social parrots were. When I went back, most of the parrots and other birds weren't too sure about me but when I went down to visit the other birds they were a bit more open to me. It wasn't until a few minutes that I had a bunch of screaming birds yelling at me and saying words like "I love you!" and "Hi!" to get my attention.
I have to say I really enjoyed my time there. The birds were fun to talk and just hanging out with. I plan to make a project dealing with music and their singing and I will probably do more projects with them.
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First trip to Bird San. Yes, that was me singing a bit. Mind you, I stop singing but he kept on going. | First trip to Bird San. |
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My first trip to the Bird San. | 
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This macaw would raise his feet whenever I would wave at him/her. | 
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Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Follow the Leader with a Butterfly
By Shanti Harris (05/11/09 14:18:37)
Related animal: Insect
After a day's hike on Santa Cruz Island, I had come across a white butterfly on my my way down a steep hill. This butterfly flew by my side for ten minutes. Sometimes I would stop and watch the butterfly land on a leaf or flower. After a minute or so, I walked onward, but this butterfly would vacate it's previous destination and continue by my side. It was strange, almost as if I was taking a walk with this white winged insect, and it was just as aware.
About ten minutes into the walk with the butterfly, it began to take the lead. I sensed it just wanted me to follow, so I did. We were both taking the same path, but for some reason it decided to be the navigator, the leader. I followed for about five minutes and then stopped. When I stood still, the butterfly landed on a leaf. It was my turn to lead. I continued walking forward along the trail. I turned my head after a few seconds and found that the butterfly had been following me.
This process had continued until I had reached the end of the path. I would follow, the butterfly would follow. It wasn't until the butterfly and I went our separate ways that I realized I had just played follow the leader with an insect. Maybe the creature would not necessarily call it "follow the leader," but it certainly seemed to have been playing some kind of game related to territory, destination and curiosity.
[Write Comment]
By Shanti Harris (05/11/09 14:18:37)
Related animal: Insect
After a day's hike on Santa Cruz Island, I had come across a white butterfly on my my way down a steep hill. This butterfly flew by my side for ten minutes. Sometimes I would stop and watch the butterfly land on a leaf or flower. After a minute or so, I walked onward, but this butterfly would vacate it's previous destination and continue by my side. It was strange, almost as if I was taking a walk with this white winged insect, and it was just as aware.
About ten minutes into the walk with the butterfly, it began to take the lead. I sensed it just wanted me to follow, so I did. We were both taking the same path, but for some reason it decided to be the navigator, the leader. I followed for about five minutes and then stopped. When I stood still, the butterfly landed on a leaf. It was my turn to lead. I continued walking forward along the trail. I turned my head after a few seconds and found that the butterfly had been following me.
This process had continued until I had reached the end of the path. I would follow, the butterfly would follow. It wasn't until the butterfly and I went our separate ways that I realized I had just played follow the leader with an insect. Maybe the creature would not necessarily call it "follow the leader," but it certainly seemed to have been playing some kind of game related to territory, destination and curiosity.
[Write Comment]
Other: Aesthetic Expressions of Non-Human Animals
Follow the Leader with a Butterfly
By Shanti Harris (06/04/09 02:11:45)
Related animal: Insect
After a day's hike on Santa Cruz Island, I had come across a white butterfly on my way down a steep hill. This butterfly flew by my side for ten minutes. Sometimes I would stop and watch the butterfly land on a leaf or flower. After a minute or so, I walked onward, but this butterfly would vacate its previous destination and continue by my side. It was strange, almost as if I was taking a walk with this white winged insect and it was just as aware.
About ten minutes into the walk with the butterfly, it began to take the lead. I sensed it just wanted me to follow, so I did. The butterfly and I took the same path, but for some reason it decided to be the navigator, the leader. I followed for about five minutes and stopped. When I stood still, the butterfly landed on a leaf. It was my turn to lead. I continued to walk forward along the trail. I turned my head after a few seconds and found that the butterfly had followed me.
This process had continued until I had reached the end of the path. I would follow, the butterfly would follow. It wasn't until the butterfly and I went our separate ways that I realized I had just played follow the leader with an insect. Maybe the creature would not necessarily call it "follow the leader," but it certainly seemed to have played some kind of game related to territory, destination and curiosity.
[Write Comment]
By Shanti Harris (06/04/09 02:11:45)
Related animal: Insect
After a day's hike on Santa Cruz Island, I had come across a white butterfly on my way down a steep hill. This butterfly flew by my side for ten minutes. Sometimes I would stop and watch the butterfly land on a leaf or flower. After a minute or so, I walked onward, but this butterfly would vacate its previous destination and continue by my side. It was strange, almost as if I was taking a walk with this white winged insect and it was just as aware.
About ten minutes into the walk with the butterfly, it began to take the lead. I sensed it just wanted me to follow, so I did. The butterfly and I took the same path, but for some reason it decided to be the navigator, the leader. I followed for about five minutes and stopped. When I stood still, the butterfly landed on a leaf. It was my turn to lead. I continued to walk forward along the trail. I turned my head after a few seconds and found that the butterfly had followed me.
This process had continued until I had reached the end of the path. I would follow, the butterfly would follow. It wasn't until the butterfly and I went our separate ways that I realized I had just played follow the leader with an insect. Maybe the creature would not necessarily call it "follow the leader," but it certainly seemed to have played some kind of game related to territory, destination and curiosity.
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Reflection: Animal Communication
Frog
By Michelle Safley (04/22/10 08:08:35)
Related animal: Frog
Yesterday I tried to communicate with a frog I came across in the bathroom at Ellison. My phone could only capture what it was doing for 15 secs, but basically it was walking along the soap dispenser. I tried to get inside its mind and figure out its reason for being in the bathroom, and suddenly it became quite clear. The poor frog had already gone to the bathroom and was trying to figure out how to wash its hands. Unfortunately, it was too small to get the job done all by itself! At least it was trying to be sanitary.
[Write Comment]
By Michelle Safley (04/22/10 08:08:35)
Related animal: Frog
Yesterday I tried to communicate with a frog I came across in the bathroom at Ellison. My phone could only capture what it was doing for 15 secs, but basically it was walking along the soap dispenser. I tried to get inside its mind and figure out its reason for being in the bathroom, and suddenly it became quite clear. The poor frog had already gone to the bathroom and was trying to figure out how to wash its hands. Unfortunately, it was too small to get the job done all by itself! At least it was trying to be sanitary.
Fun with Goats & at the Tidepools
By Mona Luo (05/04/14 17:22:20)
Related animals: Kelp Flie, Octopus
I think it is fair to say that the trip to see the goats was a wonderful idea. They were so friendly and cute. It was very refreshing. At first I thought that I had made some sort of special connection when all the kids came rushing over to me. But apparently that was not the case. I think I am a sensitive person and get easily over attached to things because when they lost interest in nibbling on my clothes and went to go nibble on someone else I felt personally offended. It was still great to be able to spend time with such energetic and amiable animals though. Animals bring comfort in a way that human interactions just can’t seem to do. I was interesting to see animals behaving in such a friendly manner that were not our traditional ideas of domesticated pets.
On the beach I did two impromptu collaborations: one where I followed the tracks of some shore birds in the sand and another where I herd kelp flies. As I walked down the beach I saw the many indents of tiny bird feet in the sand (unfortunately I don’t know what bird they belonged to). The sand was dry high up on the beach, so rather than showing the toes of the birds the footprints were just small rounded indentations. I followed one of these tracks zigzagging back and forth until they stopped (presumably the bird flew away) and then began following a new set. There was no shortage of tracks, and many intersected, making it difficult to know which path to follow. When I was walking back in the direction of the tidepools I walked towards a clump of washed up kelp, disturbing a huge swarm of kelp flies. This was my inspiration for the second collaboration. I tried to herd the kelp flies as far away from the kelp as possible. As I walked towards them they would fly away, but some would escape around the side of me to return to the kelp. Before I could get them even a few feet they had all escaped and returned to the original kelp clump, or another one nearby.
At the tidepools I found an octopus! It was hiding under a rock, in a hole when I uncovered him. Even after I knew he was there he was still hard to see because of the camouflage. It scampered away to hide somewhere else, and when I touched him in his new hideout under an anemone, he raised his arms defensively. After that I left it alone.
[Write Comment]
By Mona Luo (05/04/14 17:22:20)
Related animals: Kelp Flie, Octopus
I think it is fair to say that the trip to see the goats was a wonderful idea. They were so friendly and cute. It was very refreshing. At first I thought that I had made some sort of special connection when all the kids came rushing over to me. But apparently that was not the case. I think I am a sensitive person and get easily over attached to things because when they lost interest in nibbling on my clothes and went to go nibble on someone else I felt personally offended. It was still great to be able to spend time with such energetic and amiable animals though. Animals bring comfort in a way that human interactions just can’t seem to do. I was interesting to see animals behaving in such a friendly manner that were not our traditional ideas of domesticated pets.
On the beach I did two impromptu collaborations: one where I followed the tracks of some shore birds in the sand and another where I herd kelp flies. As I walked down the beach I saw the many indents of tiny bird feet in the sand (unfortunately I don’t know what bird they belonged to). The sand was dry high up on the beach, so rather than showing the toes of the birds the footprints were just small rounded indentations. I followed one of these tracks zigzagging back and forth until they stopped (presumably the bird flew away) and then began following a new set. There was no shortage of tracks, and many intersected, making it difficult to know which path to follow. When I was walking back in the direction of the tidepools I walked towards a clump of washed up kelp, disturbing a huge swarm of kelp flies. This was my inspiration for the second collaboration. I tried to herd the kelp flies as far away from the kelp as possible. As I walked towards them they would fly away, but some would escape around the side of me to return to the kelp. Before I could get them even a few feet they had all escaped and returned to the original kelp clump, or another one nearby.
At the tidepools I found an octopus! It was hiding under a rock, in a hole when I uncovered him. Even after I knew he was there he was still hard to see because of the camouflage. It scampered away to hide somewhere else, and when I touched him in his new hideout under an anemone, he raised his arms defensively. After that I left it alone.
Goat saying hi | 
Goat getting pet |
Tracks in the sand that I followed. | 
Kelp flies |
Reflection: Non-Art Interspecies Collaborations
Funeral for a Bird
By Erik Shalat (04/22/13 08:35:24)
Related animal: Bird
During Interspecies Collaboration we gathered into groups to discuss chapters of Jim Nollman’s book, The Man Who Talks to Whales. My group decided to go outside to get out of the classroom and enjoy the sunlight while we talked. Despite the sun, it was very windy which offset the benefits of going outside. One of the group questions prompted us to talk about our personal animal experiences, and when it came to me to answer I started talking about my bird Toby. It seems ominous in retrospect that we were talking about my bird when what we heard a light thud against the classroom window. When we examined the source of the noise we saw the small fragile body of a bird. The bird slowly tightened it’s foot as it’s last living gesture. The rest of the class exited the room and we all gathered around the bird’s body. I started taking pictures of it, which i’m displaying in this post. We wrapped the bird up in a piece of paper and deliberated over what to do with it. The first thought we had was unanimously, “Of course this would happen in Interspecies Collaboration.” We seem like the one class uniquely suited to deal with the situation, barring an avian biology course.
With the bird being delicately handled by our teacher, we set off in search of a proper burial site. The decision was made to lay him to rest under a large tree, as you would with a family pet. Trees act as natural gravestones in a way. They’re good landmarks and the verticality of them suggests a transcendence. Along the way to find a tree, we came up with the name “Icarus Yellowtail” for the bird, because of his tragic last flight and his small yellow tail- like a paint brush that dabbed a jar of yellow acrylic.
At this point we had all but forgotten about the assignment we were supposed to be working on, but we found trees at the bottom of the art building. The first tree had a spiny bark that seemed too menacing for the seemingly benign Yellowtail. I’d like to think that in life he was a laid back bird. The second tree had a much thicker for flatter bark, a good traditional tree. More complications arose, as we had no means of digging a good hole and we weren’t about to do it with our fingers and risk getting cut on the hard earth. We ended up using a flimsy plastic shovel head that did the job well enough to form a shallow grave. Icarus was wrapped up in leaves and placed in the hole, and an altar of sorts was crafted around his burial mound out of pinecones and yellow flowers. The class spoke their last words about our new posthumously formed friendship and we left the site to return to class.
What fascinated me more than the bird’s death itself is that we all came together as a class to give this bird a funeral, and there was no voice of dissent. Everyone just felt it was the right thing to do. That probably wouldn’t have happened in many other classes.
[Write Comment]
By Erik Shalat (04/22/13 08:35:24)
Related animal: Bird
During Interspecies Collaboration we gathered into groups to discuss chapters of Jim Nollman’s book, The Man Who Talks to Whales. My group decided to go outside to get out of the classroom and enjoy the sunlight while we talked. Despite the sun, it was very windy which offset the benefits of going outside. One of the group questions prompted us to talk about our personal animal experiences, and when it came to me to answer I started talking about my bird Toby. It seems ominous in retrospect that we were talking about my bird when what we heard a light thud against the classroom window. When we examined the source of the noise we saw the small fragile body of a bird. The bird slowly tightened it’s foot as it’s last living gesture. The rest of the class exited the room and we all gathered around the bird’s body. I started taking pictures of it, which i’m displaying in this post. We wrapped the bird up in a piece of paper and deliberated over what to do with it. The first thought we had was unanimously, “Of course this would happen in Interspecies Collaboration.” We seem like the one class uniquely suited to deal with the situation, barring an avian biology course.
With the bird being delicately handled by our teacher, we set off in search of a proper burial site. The decision was made to lay him to rest under a large tree, as you would with a family pet. Trees act as natural gravestones in a way. They’re good landmarks and the verticality of them suggests a transcendence. Along the way to find a tree, we came up with the name “Icarus Yellowtail” for the bird, because of his tragic last flight and his small yellow tail- like a paint brush that dabbed a jar of yellow acrylic.
At this point we had all but forgotten about the assignment we were supposed to be working on, but we found trees at the bottom of the art building. The first tree had a spiny bark that seemed too menacing for the seemingly benign Yellowtail. I’d like to think that in life he was a laid back bird. The second tree had a much thicker for flatter bark, a good traditional tree. More complications arose, as we had no means of digging a good hole and we weren’t about to do it with our fingers and risk getting cut on the hard earth. We ended up using a flimsy plastic shovel head that did the job well enough to form a shallow grave. Icarus was wrapped up in leaves and placed in the hole, and an altar of sorts was crafted around his burial mound out of pinecones and yellow flowers. The class spoke their last words about our new posthumously formed friendship and we left the site to return to class.
What fascinated me more than the bird’s death itself is that we all came together as a class to give this bird a funeral, and there was no voice of dissent. Everyone just felt it was the right thing to do. That probably wouldn’t have happened in many other classes.
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Reflection: Other Related Research
getting to know the community at west campus family housing
By Hannah Vainstein (05/06/09 11:27:23)
Related animal: Whale
Between my house and where I park my car (a good ten minute walk between the two) is a little ravine with a grass hillock and wooded area. When ever I walk along the path I see a multitude of birds and sometimes rodents and animals such as raccoons and skunks. These little walks made me curious about the other animals that live in very close proximity to my house. I was raised on seven acres near the Santa Monica Mountain Conservancy. Here on a daily bases I would see hawks, ground squirrels, rabbits, wood peckers, vultures, lizards, and many more other animals. About the time I started this class I started to do a series of drawing where I would combine the images of the animals that lived where I grew up with pictures of my friends. This combination was a melding of communities that I have been apart of. I started to become curious about the animals that are apart of my community here in Goleta. I know that many of the animals are the same species but I have not build a relationship to any specific animal around my apartment. I know one major reason for this is that I don’t encounter them as freely here because there are many more cars and people living in close proximity to each other. Therefore I set myself the task of taking short walks around the apartment complex to become familiar with the animals that are apart of my community here.
[Write Comment]
By Hannah Vainstein (05/06/09 11:27:23)
Related animal: Whale
Between my house and where I park my car (a good ten minute walk between the two) is a little ravine with a grass hillock and wooded area. When ever I walk along the path I see a multitude of birds and sometimes rodents and animals such as raccoons and skunks. These little walks made me curious about the other animals that live in very close proximity to my house. I was raised on seven acres near the Santa Monica Mountain Conservancy. Here on a daily bases I would see hawks, ground squirrels, rabbits, wood peckers, vultures, lizards, and many more other animals. About the time I started this class I started to do a series of drawing where I would combine the images of the animals that lived where I grew up with pictures of my friends. This combination was a melding of communities that I have been apart of. I started to become curious about the animals that are apart of my community here in Goleta. I know that many of the animals are the same species but I have not build a relationship to any specific animal around my apartment. I know one major reason for this is that I don’t encounter them as freely here because there are many more cars and people living in close proximity to each other. Therefore I set myself the task of taking short walks around the apartment complex to become familiar with the animals that are apart of my community here.
[Write Comment]
Gray Squirrel
By Chelsea Hunter (04/29/09 22:00:21)
Related animal: Squirrel
THE BASICS An Eastern Gray Squirrel dreyThe Eastern Gray Squirrels builds a type of nest, known as a drey, in the forks of trees. The drey consists mainly of dry leaves and twigs. It may also build a nest in the attic or in the exterior walls of a house, often to the consternation of the homeowner. In addition, the squirrel may inhabit a permanent tree den.[5]
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is more active during the early and late hours of the day, and tends to avoid the heat in the middle of a summer day.[5] It does not hibernate.[6]
Predators include humans, hawks, mustelids, skunks, raccoons, domestic and feral cats, snakes, owls and dogs. On occasion, a squirrel may lose part of its tail while escaping a predator.
INTERESTING FACTS!!! The squirrel's front teeth continue to grow throughout it's life, so they can never be worn away by the animal's continual gnawing.
A male squirrel can smell a female that is ready to mate.
The gray squirrel can leap more than 20 feet
When a squirrel senses danger its first instinct is to stand motionless
COMMUNICATION
Call: Chattering and piercing scream
Squirrels communicate through a series of chirps
HOW CUTE!
Baby squirrels do not have teeth or hair. They are blind for the first six to eight weeks of life. nests also contain a nursery!
WARNING When confined, squirrels become quite frantic and will careen around the enclosure possibly inflicting damage unto themselves. If possible provide water with sugar dissolved in it. When animals become stressed their blood sugar decreases dramatically and this could cause them to go into shock and die.
JUST IN CASE YOU DIDNT KNOW When a gray squirrel finds a bird feeder they look upon it like a tree full of acorns. They don’t understand about ownership rights, they just see a lot of good food that needs to either be eaten or stored for winter
PLAYING The juvenile squirrels will play together, practice nest building, find and store food
[Write Comment]
By Chelsea Hunter (04/29/09 22:00:21)
Related animal: Squirrel
THE BASICS An Eastern Gray Squirrel dreyThe Eastern Gray Squirrels builds a type of nest, known as a drey, in the forks of trees. The drey consists mainly of dry leaves and twigs. It may also build a nest in the attic or in the exterior walls of a house, often to the consternation of the homeowner. In addition, the squirrel may inhabit a permanent tree den.[5]
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is more active during the early and late hours of the day, and tends to avoid the heat in the middle of a summer day.[5] It does not hibernate.[6]
Predators include humans, hawks, mustelids, skunks, raccoons, domestic and feral cats, snakes, owls and dogs. On occasion, a squirrel may lose part of its tail while escaping a predator.
INTERESTING FACTS!!! The squirrel's front teeth continue to grow throughout it's life, so they can never be worn away by the animal's continual gnawing.
A male squirrel can smell a female that is ready to mate.
The gray squirrel can leap more than 20 feet
When a squirrel senses danger its first instinct is to stand motionless
COMMUNICATION
Call: Chattering and piercing scream
Squirrels communicate through a series of chirps
HOW CUTE!
Baby squirrels do not have teeth or hair. They are blind for the first six to eight weeks of life. nests also contain a nursery!
WARNING When confined, squirrels become quite frantic and will careen around the enclosure possibly inflicting damage unto themselves. If possible provide water with sugar dissolved in it. When animals become stressed their blood sugar decreases dramatically and this could cause them to go into shock and die.
JUST IN CASE YOU DIDNT KNOW When a gray squirrel finds a bird feeder they look upon it like a tree full of acorns. They don’t understand about ownership rights, they just see a lot of good food that needs to either be eaten or stored for winter
PLAYING The juvenile squirrels will play together, practice nest building, find and store food
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Reflection: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Grizzlies
By Michelle Safley (05/08/10 16:02:14)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
There appear to be two main views towards grizzly bears. The first, that they are misunderstood creatures that simply require we humans to learn the right way to interact with them. The second, that grizzly bears are wild and dangerous and to attempt to befriend them is just asking for trouble. These opposing views are expressed in "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia" and "Grizzly Man", respectively. Charlie Russell's response to Timothy's death also brings up the two views. "Walking with Giants" shows people content near grizzles, and that the bears are content to leave them alone. There is not much of anything in the film to imply that Grizzlies are dangerous and capable of killing and eating humans. "Grizzly Man" starts out by showing Timothy Treadwell interacting with Grizzlies and he appears to have a handle on all of his interactions. Of course, by the end of the film he is no longer living and the real message is that Grizzlies are not as easy to control and understand as Timothy believed them to be. Russell's text mentions views of those people living in Alaska who would have thought Timothy to be crazy, but he also is impressed by how long Timothy was able to last without incident.
Grizzly Man (Movie) [Write Comment]
By Michelle Safley (05/08/10 16:02:14)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
There appear to be two main views towards grizzly bears. The first, that they are misunderstood creatures that simply require we humans to learn the right way to interact with them. The second, that grizzly bears are wild and dangerous and to attempt to befriend them is just asking for trouble. These opposing views are expressed in "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia" and "Grizzly Man", respectively. Charlie Russell's response to Timothy's death also brings up the two views. "Walking with Giants" shows people content near grizzles, and that the bears are content to leave them alone. There is not much of anything in the film to imply that Grizzlies are dangerous and capable of killing and eating humans. "Grizzly Man" starts out by showing Timothy Treadwell interacting with Grizzlies and he appears to have a handle on all of his interactions. Of course, by the end of the film he is no longer living and the real message is that Grizzlies are not as easy to control and understand as Timothy believed them to be. Russell's text mentions views of those people living in Alaska who would have thought Timothy to be crazy, but he also is impressed by how long Timothy was able to last without incident.
Reflection: Animal Communication
Grizzly
By Hilary Elizabeth MacDonald (05/11/10 19:24:31)
Related animal: Bear
Grizzly Man:
After seeing the Grizzly Man documentary I had a lot of mixed feelings. I believe that Timothy Treadwell was really passionate about what the did and truly felt a connection to these bears. However I do feel as if he was a bit psychotic and was missing some sort of human connection. He was too involved with becoming a bear then living in peace with the bears. His mood swings seemed unhealthy and his addiction to what he did is no different than any other addiction. Timothy did mention an alcohol addiction earlier in his films. I believe that animals do need help in this day and age, but I think this help should come in the form of helping animals without too much contact if any at all. Its more of an awareness issue. Changing the bears wont do anything you have to change the people that are affecting the bears. The fewer animals that are humanized the easier it will be for them to be protected. To Timothy he was a bear and to the bears he was just a different animal that was trying to interact with them whether the they wanted him there or not.
[Write Comment]
By Hilary Elizabeth MacDonald (05/11/10 19:24:31)
Related animal: Bear
Grizzly Man:
After seeing the Grizzly Man documentary I had a lot of mixed feelings. I believe that Timothy Treadwell was really passionate about what the did and truly felt a connection to these bears. However I do feel as if he was a bit psychotic and was missing some sort of human connection. He was too involved with becoming a bear then living in peace with the bears. His mood swings seemed unhealthy and his addiction to what he did is no different than any other addiction. Timothy did mention an alcohol addiction earlier in his films. I believe that animals do need help in this day and age, but I think this help should come in the form of helping animals without too much contact if any at all. Its more of an awareness issue. Changing the bears wont do anything you have to change the people that are affecting the bears. The fewer animals that are humanized the easier it will be for them to be protected. To Timothy he was a bear and to the bears he was just a different animal that was trying to interact with them whether the they wanted him there or not.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Grizzly Bears
By Matthew Roy Reeves (05/06/10 23:28:43)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
Charlie Russell and Maureen Enns led a documentary protesting the cruelty to Grizzly Bears in Russia. Their message was backed by PBS, and it was well-received, exactly as they intended. Timothy Tredwell was controversial on both fronts, from the human viewers of his message, as well as the Grizzlies that shared his space.
Russell responded to the death of Tredwell with an "I told you so" attitude. He insisted that anybody living among Grizzlies must possess pepper spray and an electrical fence, to clearly mark a boundary between themselves and the bears. With no boundary, Tredwell became a feature of the environment, a creature low on the food chain.
What is more admirable? To live around bears with safety precautions, in attempts to protect them (while protecting oneself); or to live with bears, like a neighbor?
Tredwell was admirable in what he did, to a subjective degree. Russell and Enns more effectively shared their purpose of protecting the bears by first protecting themselves.
Grizzly Man (Movie) [Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves (05/06/10 23:28:43)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
Charlie Russell and Maureen Enns led a documentary protesting the cruelty to Grizzly Bears in Russia. Their message was backed by PBS, and it was well-received, exactly as they intended. Timothy Tredwell was controversial on both fronts, from the human viewers of his message, as well as the Grizzlies that shared his space.
Russell responded to the death of Tredwell with an "I told you so" attitude. He insisted that anybody living among Grizzlies must possess pepper spray and an electrical fence, to clearly mark a boundary between themselves and the bears. With no boundary, Tredwell became a feature of the environment, a creature low on the food chain.
What is more admirable? To live around bears with safety precautions, in attempts to protect them (while protecting oneself); or to live with bears, like a neighbor?
Tredwell was admirable in what he did, to a subjective degree. Russell and Enns more effectively shared their purpose of protecting the bears by first protecting themselves.
Grizzly Encounters
By Jessica Oropesa (06/09/10 02:19:54)
Related animals: Bear, Human
Watching the two films, "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia" and "Grizzly Man", and reading the text by Timothy Treadwell reminded me of the wild and how we, as humans, must tread lightly in territory that is not our own. In each of the films, humans are shown interacting with bears in different ways. Grizzly bears seem to have a bad reputation of being dangerous and unpredictable, which has given man the permission to hunt and kill these magnificent creatures. Treadwell made an interesting statement in his article, stating that, "an animal, running away with fear, has become synonymous with our idea of wild". He also claimed that it isn't the bears who shouldn't be trusted, it is us. From the bear's perspective, humans are probably the most unpredictable animals they have ever encountered. They have experienced each side of the spectrum, from peaceful, bear-loving couples to murdering poachers. It must be so much more confusing on the bear's end of the line.
It is difficult for me to think about what is right or wrong in any of these sources. Questions arise like: Would we be better off staying clear of each other's presence? Or should we spend more time with them in order to better understand them so that we will be able to live as cohabitants of this world?
[Write Comment]
By Jessica Oropesa (06/09/10 02:19:54)
Related animals: Bear, Human
Watching the two films, "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia" and "Grizzly Man", and reading the text by Timothy Treadwell reminded me of the wild and how we, as humans, must tread lightly in territory that is not our own. In each of the films, humans are shown interacting with bears in different ways. Grizzly bears seem to have a bad reputation of being dangerous and unpredictable, which has given man the permission to hunt and kill these magnificent creatures. Treadwell made an interesting statement in his article, stating that, "an animal, running away with fear, has become synonymous with our idea of wild". He also claimed that it isn't the bears who shouldn't be trusted, it is us. From the bear's perspective, humans are probably the most unpredictable animals they have ever encountered. They have experienced each side of the spectrum, from peaceful, bear-loving couples to murdering poachers. It must be so much more confusing on the bear's end of the line.
It is difficult for me to think about what is right or wrong in any of these sources. Questions arise like: Would we be better off staying clear of each other's presence? Or should we spend more time with them in order to better understand them so that we will be able to live as cohabitants of this world?
[Write Comment]
Grizzly Film and Article Reflections
By Kirsten Howard (05/19/10 11:30:46)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
I found both of the Grizzly Bear movies very interesting and thought provoking. There are many extremes exhibited in each film and I am left somewhere in the gray area, not fully supportive of any one side. I think that the couple in the film “Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia,” were closer to bringing people to a positive understanding of bears than Timothy Treadwell was. They seemed to have the right balance of interest and reservation. It appeared that they wanted to learn more about the bears and help people to understand bears in a new light. It is a controversial topic however, in regard to how much socialization with humans should bears have? Too much positive interaction, and they will become easy targets for people who want to shoot them. I think that it is more important for bear enthusiasts to get out into schools and teach children from a young age, and even adults, about bears, so that future generations don’t have people shooting them. I think that would be much more effective than solely spending time with bears and making a documentary.
The documentary about Timothy Treadwell was very depressing for me. It seemed like Herzog was more interested in making a film that portrayed a troubled man, and the troubled people in Treadwell’s life, rather than making a film that demonstrated what Timothy had wanted it to portray. Treadwell had been filming hundreds of hours, wanting to make a documentary that showed people how bears can coexist with man. Herzog, however, took Treadwell’s hard work, and then showed pieces of film that were very private, and made a documentary that shed mockery on a man who was obviously not emotionally or psychologically stable. It is clear that many parts of his tapes were not meant to be seen, and Charlie Russell even mentions in his article, “He would send me edited copies of some of his tapes, with explicit instructions not to let anyone else see them.” I think that Herzog really did a horrible thing.
However, if Treadwell had lived and wanted to make a film about the bears and how they can be lived with, he shouldn’t have gone on an on about how dangerous they are and how he is the only person who could ever survive around them...that defeats the purpose.
Grizzly Man (Movie) [Write Comment]
By Kirsten Howard (05/19/10 11:30:46)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
I found both of the Grizzly Bear movies very interesting and thought provoking. There are many extremes exhibited in each film and I am left somewhere in the gray area, not fully supportive of any one side. I think that the couple in the film “Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia,” were closer to bringing people to a positive understanding of bears than Timothy Treadwell was. They seemed to have the right balance of interest and reservation. It appeared that they wanted to learn more about the bears and help people to understand bears in a new light. It is a controversial topic however, in regard to how much socialization with humans should bears have? Too much positive interaction, and they will become easy targets for people who want to shoot them. I think that it is more important for bear enthusiasts to get out into schools and teach children from a young age, and even adults, about bears, so that future generations don’t have people shooting them. I think that would be much more effective than solely spending time with bears and making a documentary.
The documentary about Timothy Treadwell was very depressing for me. It seemed like Herzog was more interested in making a film that portrayed a troubled man, and the troubled people in Treadwell’s life, rather than making a film that demonstrated what Timothy had wanted it to portray. Treadwell had been filming hundreds of hours, wanting to make a documentary that showed people how bears can coexist with man. Herzog, however, took Treadwell’s hard work, and then showed pieces of film that were very private, and made a documentary that shed mockery on a man who was obviously not emotionally or psychologically stable. It is clear that many parts of his tapes were not meant to be seen, and Charlie Russell even mentions in his article, “He would send me edited copies of some of his tapes, with explicit instructions not to let anyone else see them.” I think that Herzog really did a horrible thing.
However, if Treadwell had lived and wanted to make a film about the bears and how they can be lived with, he shouldn’t have gone on an on about how dangerous they are and how he is the only person who could ever survive around them...that defeats the purpose.
Reflection: Other Related Research
Grizzly man
By Lillian Shanahan (05/21/10 13:19:39)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
I enjoyed watching both films- Charlie seems to be more educated about the brown bear- more conscious of the bears capabilities, taking precautions against possible outcomes from his interactions with the bears. I don't think his response to Timothy's death was negative at all (like his Russian friend said) I think that he stated very clear and reasonable points. I like the point he made about tim always saying that he was doing something dangerous- I think he is right in assuming that Tim believed he was going to survive . Along with his countless "re-takes" tells me that tim definitely thought he was going to be able to show them to others.
I loved the grizzle man movie. mainly because of Werner's take on the situation, he makes it very comical- But i didn't find that I was sucked into this view point I also felt for Timothy. Tim had clearly found something he loved ( I don't think he was out there to protect the bears but to help himself escape) I don't think he hurt anyone by being out there and I think people need to chill out.
Charlie points out that Tim's ex girlfriend handed all the tapes over to werner. Which is also hilarious- something I got a feeling of while watching his film. I think werner does an excellent job of saying - tim might have been a little werid but look at all these other people who are still alive - who are probably even more werid or in the ex-girlfriends case camera hungry.
I find it amazing that the Alaskans were happy to hear of his death. I think that much of what timothy did was for himself rather than for then bears. But if he wasn't harming the Alaskans I see no reason why they would be upset.
The argument that the bears should be scared of humans and that timothy was messing up this order of communication, is kind of ridiculous. Charlie lives near bears and has healthy communications with them. I think if people were more in touch with the natural order of things they would not be so afraid.
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (05/21/10 13:19:39)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
I enjoyed watching both films- Charlie seems to be more educated about the brown bear- more conscious of the bears capabilities, taking precautions against possible outcomes from his interactions with the bears. I don't think his response to Timothy's death was negative at all (like his Russian friend said) I think that he stated very clear and reasonable points. I like the point he made about tim always saying that he was doing something dangerous- I think he is right in assuming that Tim believed he was going to survive . Along with his countless "re-takes" tells me that tim definitely thought he was going to be able to show them to others.
I loved the grizzle man movie. mainly because of Werner's take on the situation, he makes it very comical- But i didn't find that I was sucked into this view point I also felt for Timothy. Tim had clearly found something he loved ( I don't think he was out there to protect the bears but to help himself escape) I don't think he hurt anyone by being out there and I think people need to chill out.
Charlie points out that Tim's ex girlfriend handed all the tapes over to werner. Which is also hilarious- something I got a feeling of while watching his film. I think werner does an excellent job of saying - tim might have been a little werid but look at all these other people who are still alive - who are probably even more werid or in the ex-girlfriends case camera hungry.
I find it amazing that the Alaskans were happy to hear of his death. I think that much of what timothy did was for himself rather than for then bears. But if he wasn't harming the Alaskans I see no reason why they would be upset.
The argument that the bears should be scared of humans and that timothy was messing up this order of communication, is kind of ridiculous. Charlie lives near bears and has healthy communications with them. I think if people were more in touch with the natural order of things they would not be so afraid.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Grizzly Man and such...
By Andrea Chase (05/06/10 16:42:14)
Related animal: Bear
The movies both proved to be very interesting in both their exposure of human's interactions and the interactions of the wild animals around them. The main issue that I can't seem to get out of my mind, between the readings and the movies, is the affect our human interactions have on the animals around us. Are our interactions helpful or harmful? Are they harmful when they are intended to be helpful? There is a certain catch 22 that runs in circles around the mentality toward inter-species interactions. Our individual interactions whether well intended or not shape the reactions on other species for their lifetimes. Therefore since as an individual we can not represent humanity as a whole, especially since the actions of other humans cannot match one another completely, it becomes problematic that animals form any impression about human nature. As sad as it is to say its better wild animals are afraid and avoid humans than to trust and be taken advantage of or killed for frivolous reasons. Obviously this is a subject that needs to be further discussed and thought about through a lens other than that of human intention and social as well as traditional construction.
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (05/06/10 16:42:14)
Related animal: Bear
The movies both proved to be very interesting in both their exposure of human's interactions and the interactions of the wild animals around them. The main issue that I can't seem to get out of my mind, between the readings and the movies, is the affect our human interactions have on the animals around us. Are our interactions helpful or harmful? Are they harmful when they are intended to be helpful? There is a certain catch 22 that runs in circles around the mentality toward inter-species interactions. Our individual interactions whether well intended or not shape the reactions on other species for their lifetimes. Therefore since as an individual we can not represent humanity as a whole, especially since the actions of other humans cannot match one another completely, it becomes problematic that animals form any impression about human nature. As sad as it is to say its better wild animals are afraid and avoid humans than to trust and be taken advantage of or killed for frivolous reasons. Obviously this is a subject that needs to be further discussed and thought about through a lens other than that of human intention and social as well as traditional construction.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Other Related Research
Grizzly Thoughts
By Heather Sielke (05/11/10 20:03:41)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
When we watched the "Walking with Giants" movie I was conflicted about their reason to go to Siberia. I would have rathered that those bears would have lived with no human interaction. I was sad to here that the gull bladders were being taken for asian "medical" reasons just like the seahorses are being taken from the wild for. I do like that they unlike Grizzly Man would not make sudden moments because I thought he was quite crazy for jumping at the bears when they got too close. To me grizzly man should not have stayed longer because those bears were supposed to be hibernating and instead were trying to get their last food that they can.
Grizzly Man (Movie) [Write Comment]
By Heather Sielke (05/11/10 20:03:41)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
When we watched the "Walking with Giants" movie I was conflicted about their reason to go to Siberia. I would have rathered that those bears would have lived with no human interaction. I was sad to here that the gull bladders were being taken for asian "medical" reasons just like the seahorses are being taken from the wild for. I do like that they unlike Grizzly Man would not make sudden moments because I thought he was quite crazy for jumping at the bears when they got too close. To me grizzly man should not have stayed longer because those bears were supposed to be hibernating and instead were trying to get their last food that they can.
grizzlys and men
By Jennifer Lee Lin (06/07/10 09:48:33)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
We watched two movies dealing with grizzlies and how people try to interact with them. the first (the title which i forgot) was two scientists in a very remote part of Russia who worked with bears at a very sensitive distance. What i liked about their interactions is that while the scientists obviously wished to be close with them and have a deep understanding with the bears, they respected the bear's distance and tried not to interfere and invade their lives.
I found their interactions with the 3 cubs very extraordinary and worthy of great respect. they found ways to teach the orphans survival skills without having too much possible negative human influence, and the cubs learned so much on their own. I liked that while the cubs were very independent, they still formed a kind of relationship with the scientists. there was a good kind of balance that i think timothy treadwell lacked.
I like timonthy treadwell all the same. Although i think he went to far in trying to touch and interact with the bears, i think he had the best intentions. I think the director portrayed him in a very strange and somewhat critical light. Though timothy was not a normal person (especially being alone for so long in such a remote place) and he did not behave in the best way, there is a reason why he was able to be so close to the bears as well as other animals. This movie is not a movie i like to dwell much on.
Grizzly Man (Movie) [Write Comment]
Comment by jenleelin (06/07/10 09:53:36):
note: the first film was "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia"
By Jennifer Lee Lin (06/07/10 09:48:33)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
We watched two movies dealing with grizzlies and how people try to interact with them. the first (the title which i forgot) was two scientists in a very remote part of Russia who worked with bears at a very sensitive distance. What i liked about their interactions is that while the scientists obviously wished to be close with them and have a deep understanding with the bears, they respected the bear's distance and tried not to interfere and invade their lives.
I found their interactions with the 3 cubs very extraordinary and worthy of great respect. they found ways to teach the orphans survival skills without having too much possible negative human influence, and the cubs learned so much on their own. I liked that while the cubs were very independent, they still formed a kind of relationship with the scientists. there was a good kind of balance that i think timothy treadwell lacked.
I like timonthy treadwell all the same. Although i think he went to far in trying to touch and interact with the bears, i think he had the best intentions. I think the director portrayed him in a very strange and somewhat critical light. Though timothy was not a normal person (especially being alone for so long in such a remote place) and he did not behave in the best way, there is a reason why he was able to be so close to the bears as well as other animals. This movie is not a movie i like to dwell much on.
Comment by jenleelin (06/07/10 09:53:36):
note: the first film was "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia"
Grozzly Man
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/13/10 12:20:29)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
Something about the movie Grizzly Man does not sit right with me. I feel as though the director completely exploited Timothy Treadwell to make some money. If Tim had survived to make a movie about the subject himself, there is no way that he would have included the footage in which he used the camera as a diary. He had no one to talk to when he was in the wild and therefore began talking to the camera and sharing with it all of his thoughts and feelings. The director of the movie edited the footage in such a way as to make it comical. One cannot help but laugh as they see Tim. It is hard for me to believe that the director feels no shame in this complete exploitation to make himself some money. He took a tragic situation and made a comedy out of it. It completely undermines everything that Tim was trying to accomplish by living with these bears. It is also hard for me to believe that Tim didn't realize while he was alive that if he were to die in the field it would be a major step backward for his cause of allowing people to see that these bears mean people no harm. The movie ends up portraying the exact opposite message, that bears are dangerous and will kill humans for food. Timothy Treadwell seems to have had a pretty righteous idea to spread knowledge about the thing he loved the most, though he didn't really think it trough all the way. He does not deserve to be made a mockery of in his death so that some filmmaker can get his hands on some more money. Profits profits profits, who cares whose life work you are spitting on.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/13/10 12:20:29)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
Something about the movie Grizzly Man does not sit right with me. I feel as though the director completely exploited Timothy Treadwell to make some money. If Tim had survived to make a movie about the subject himself, there is no way that he would have included the footage in which he used the camera as a diary. He had no one to talk to when he was in the wild and therefore began talking to the camera and sharing with it all of his thoughts and feelings. The director of the movie edited the footage in such a way as to make it comical. One cannot help but laugh as they see Tim. It is hard for me to believe that the director feels no shame in this complete exploitation to make himself some money. He took a tragic situation and made a comedy out of it. It completely undermines everything that Tim was trying to accomplish by living with these bears. It is also hard for me to believe that Tim didn't realize while he was alive that if he were to die in the field it would be a major step backward for his cause of allowing people to see that these bears mean people no harm. The movie ends up portraying the exact opposite message, that bears are dangerous and will kill humans for food. Timothy Treadwell seems to have had a pretty righteous idea to spread knowledge about the thing he loved the most, though he didn't really think it trough all the way. He does not deserve to be made a mockery of in his death so that some filmmaker can get his hands on some more money. Profits profits profits, who cares whose life work you are spitting on.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Hallow-Quarter
By Sarina Martinez (06/09/10 13:22:57)
Related animal: Dog
When I look back on this quarter I've realized that Hallow has made a great deal of improvement. Day to day the improvement is hard to see but when I think about her 3 months ago and about her now there are drastic differences.
Aside from the several day spell of rebellion she raged against me her behavior and improved. She is very obedient now and listens all the time, not just when she fells like it. She's come to understand the give/take relationship and us working together. She now knows that if she listens and behaves she will receive what she wants. If I follow through with what she expects to get she will continue to listen. It has definitely become more of a collaborative relationship, working together to create a more harmonious life.
3 months ago when people asked me about my dog I simply said she's more like a cat. She sleeps a lot, doesn't really like to play. But now I can say my dog is a dog, and a pretty funny one at that. She has developed her own personality and is now doing "dog" things.
I believe that if it wasn't for this class her progress may have taken much longer or maybe not have happened at all. This class made me think of animals as equals and not as entertainment for me. This change in perception has allowed me to rethink my interaction with my dog as well as other animals.
[Write Comment]
By Sarina Martinez (06/09/10 13:22:57)
Related animal: Dog
When I look back on this quarter I've realized that Hallow has made a great deal of improvement. Day to day the improvement is hard to see but when I think about her 3 months ago and about her now there are drastic differences.
Aside from the several day spell of rebellion she raged against me her behavior and improved. She is very obedient now and listens all the time, not just when she fells like it. She's come to understand the give/take relationship and us working together. She now knows that if she listens and behaves she will receive what she wants. If I follow through with what she expects to get she will continue to listen. It has definitely become more of a collaborative relationship, working together to create a more harmonious life.
3 months ago when people asked me about my dog I simply said she's more like a cat. She sleeps a lot, doesn't really like to play. But now I can say my dog is a dog, and a pretty funny one at that. She has developed her own personality and is now doing "dog" things.
I believe that if it wasn't for this class her progress may have taken much longer or maybe not have happened at all. This class made me think of animals as equals and not as entertainment for me. This change in perception has allowed me to rethink my interaction with my dog as well as other animals.
[Write Comment]
Ham it up Hammies
By Andrea Chase (04/29/10 14:31:40)
Related animal: Pig
Upon visiting the Lil Orphan Hammies last week I was exposed to an entirely new realism concerning pigs which dispelled all previous stereotypes I had formed around depictions of pigs in my childhood like Babe. Although at first surprised by the reality of a pig's life, as the pig's personalities and stories emerged -through both one on one interactions and conversations with their caregiver- I grew to understand their lifestyle a little bit more. The only remaining sadness I felt was in the condition the pigs were living in. Although a great property suited for the situation, the caregiver seemed to be pushed to the limit disregarding her own health to that of the many pigs she is now responsible for.
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (04/29/10 14:31:40)
Related animal: Pig
Upon visiting the Lil Orphan Hammies last week I was exposed to an entirely new realism concerning pigs which dispelled all previous stereotypes I had formed around depictions of pigs in my childhood like Babe. Although at first surprised by the reality of a pig's life, as the pig's personalities and stories emerged -through both one on one interactions and conversations with their caregiver- I grew to understand their lifestyle a little bit more. The only remaining sadness I felt was in the condition the pigs were living in. Although a great property suited for the situation, the caregiver seemed to be pushed to the limit disregarding her own health to that of the many pigs she is now responsible for.
[Write Comment]
Hello whale
By Rachel Visalda (04/22/10 23:34:49)
One of the most interesting points that Jim Nollman raises is the fact that when working with animals, it's important to deal with them as individuals and not generalize based on species. As humans, we tend to think everything in the world operates the way we think it does, and Nollman brings up a good argument when he explains his views on interspecies communication.
He explains that communication should be more than just passing information; it should stem from an equal standing between those involved. Therefore, real communication can be very difficult, almost impossible, since we have been conditioned to treat animals as lesser than us. Knowing this, we can start by first changing our perception of non-human beings in order to promote more open contact with them.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Rachel Visalda (04/22/10 23:34:49)
One of the most interesting points that Jim Nollman raises is the fact that when working with animals, it's important to deal with them as individuals and not generalize based on species. As humans, we tend to think everything in the world operates the way we think it does, and Nollman brings up a good argument when he explains his views on interspecies communication.
He explains that communication should be more than just passing information; it should stem from an equal standing between those involved. Therefore, real communication can be very difficult, almost impossible, since we have been conditioned to treat animals as lesser than us. Knowing this, we can start by first changing our perception of non-human beings in order to promote more open contact with them.
Essay: Interspecies Relationships
Hermes the PostConsumer Island-Dweller
By Matthew Roy Reeves (05/24/10 00:51:31)
Related animal: Hermit Crab
I explored Santa Cruz Island from Saturday, 17 May until Monday, 19 May, and realized how such a confined space can indeed contain far more room than perceived. It has prompted me to acquire a larger space for Hermes, as his Destijl Mobile enlargens, and enlivens.
After a tight-squeeze tango with death, Hermes is now awarded a larger environment for his courageousness. He now engages in a molting phase, but refuses to leave his shell. He needs room to dance! The life of Hermes depends on it. The Destijl Mobile now exists as a 2.5 gallon Rubbermaid® EasyFind Lids™ plastic container: the most advanced in sustainable PostConsumer space design. Where leftovers may typically reside, a dance party will occur. The art of PP 5 plastics material will supersede science in the heat of a sultry salsa number.
Hermes is a revolutionary PostConsumer Island dweller, free from the bonds of survival, and with plenty of wiggle room. Though Santa Cruz Island was not made of plastic, I did paint its countryside in acrylic. I was therefore inspired by the controlled freedom of the island; the state can fully regulate the occupancy, and put the kibosh on visitors concealing wildlife souvenirs. An island is the ideal environment for creating or maintaining a space. The renowned Island Fox, for example, will never face a predator, for they do not exist on the island. Likewise, the lifestyle of Hermes is easily permitted by the granted source of food and water, new shells and burrow habitats.
Hermes, like the Santa Cruz Island Fox, lives in confined, controlled freedom. It is oddly like my freedom while living in Isla Vista. I go to college and explore my passions without the obligations of “real life,” looming just beyond Storke and Hollister, the U.S. 101 Highway. Isla Vista is a PostConsumer plastic container of freedom! The freedom exists, because it is given a confined space. The room inside permits a lifestyle, and thus becomes bigger than actuality. Isla Vista is about 2.16 square miles, and somehow supports 18,000 college students, and 72,000 annual Halloween partygoers. Hermes leads by example: freedom on the inside. But what does Postmodernism have to say about controlled space? I fear it is controlled freedom that transforms an animal into a “pet,” the most abhorred creature of contemporary ideas and art.
Are college students domesticated wildlife? Pets inside 2.5 gallon Rubbermaid® EasyFind Lids™ plastic containers, with plenty of liquor room? Again, Hermes in the Destijl Mobile will lead by example, and by dancing, to the beat of the best music around.
[Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves (05/24/10 00:51:31)
Related animal: Hermit Crab
I explored Santa Cruz Island from Saturday, 17 May until Monday, 19 May, and realized how such a confined space can indeed contain far more room than perceived. It has prompted me to acquire a larger space for Hermes, as his Destijl Mobile enlargens, and enlivens.
After a tight-squeeze tango with death, Hermes is now awarded a larger environment for his courageousness. He now engages in a molting phase, but refuses to leave his shell. He needs room to dance! The life of Hermes depends on it. The Destijl Mobile now exists as a 2.5 gallon Rubbermaid® EasyFind Lids™ plastic container: the most advanced in sustainable PostConsumer space design. Where leftovers may typically reside, a dance party will occur. The art of PP 5 plastics material will supersede science in the heat of a sultry salsa number.
Hermes is a revolutionary PostConsumer Island dweller, free from the bonds of survival, and with plenty of wiggle room. Though Santa Cruz Island was not made of plastic, I did paint its countryside in acrylic. I was therefore inspired by the controlled freedom of the island; the state can fully regulate the occupancy, and put the kibosh on visitors concealing wildlife souvenirs. An island is the ideal environment for creating or maintaining a space. The renowned Island Fox, for example, will never face a predator, for they do not exist on the island. Likewise, the lifestyle of Hermes is easily permitted by the granted source of food and water, new shells and burrow habitats.
Hermes, like the Santa Cruz Island Fox, lives in confined, controlled freedom. It is oddly like my freedom while living in Isla Vista. I go to college and explore my passions without the obligations of “real life,” looming just beyond Storke and Hollister, the U.S. 101 Highway. Isla Vista is a PostConsumer plastic container of freedom! The freedom exists, because it is given a confined space. The room inside permits a lifestyle, and thus becomes bigger than actuality. Isla Vista is about 2.16 square miles, and somehow supports 18,000 college students, and 72,000 annual Halloween partygoers. Hermes leads by example: freedom on the inside. But what does Postmodernism have to say about controlled space? I fear it is controlled freedom that transforms an animal into a “pet,” the most abhorred creature of contemporary ideas and art.
Are college students domesticated wildlife? Pets inside 2.5 gallon Rubbermaid® EasyFind Lids™ plastic containers, with plenty of liquor room? Again, Hermes in the Destijl Mobile will lead by example, and by dancing, to the beat of the best music around.
Pouring old world into new terrarium. |
Horse Racetrack
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:30:01)
Related animal: Horse
Interspecies Collaboration Week 1
The other day I went to a horse racetrack called Hollywood Park. When I was little, I went to one at least once per week. My dad used to be a professional jockey so my mom, brother, and I would always go watch his races after school. Then, win or lose, he would take us all out to a nice dinner. I know many people don’t approve of how horses are treated with horseracing, but I honestly think it’s kind of magical the way a jockey and horse interact with each other when they’re going 65 mph with other horses just inches away going the same speed. Since my dad was a jockey I always got to go in the paddock before races to greet all the horses with a carrot or a pet on the nose. Surprisingly, I was never scared of these giant animals. I felt like when I walked up to a horse and made my presence known by whistling or saying the horse’s name the horse would look at me and we would make an agreement to be cool with one another. Out of my immediate family, I probably rode horses the least but that does not mean I didn’t interact with them less. I always enjoyed walking them and feeding them tons of carrots. One memorable moment I had with a horse was at the Hollywood racetrack and my most current visit reminded me of it. When I was about six I went to watch one of my dads races. Before the race I was petting one of the horses who was tied to a fence with no one around. It looked so uncomfortable but when I tried to pet its nose it stepped away. I became frustrated with the horse so I just sat next to him. After a few minutes of playing in the dirt the horse turned to me and stuck it’s nose in my face. I waved the horse to come close and instead of coming to stand next to me, the horse walked over and laid down right next to me with it’s next nearest me. The horses name was biscuit and he was just a two year old wanting some attention. I sat there petting the horse for a long time until my mom walked over to the stables and saw me sitting with Biscuit. She then came over and made me get up to leave and the horse stood up right when I did like he wanted to come with me. I’ll never forget that horses reaction. It was so humanlike and sad. Biscuit seemed like he just wanted a friend no matter what species it was. I think horses are the most majestic animals on the planet. Horses have always been my family’s choice of favorite animal. My mom used to play polo back in England when she was younger and my brother took riding lessons for many years. We even had a pet horse named Nemo for a few years. He became too dangerous for my brother and I to ride so my parents sold him to a mayor of some small town in Calgary where he was able to quit his racing days and be lazy eating grass and run around in open fields.
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:30:01)
Related animal: Horse
Interspecies Collaboration Week 1
The other day I went to a horse racetrack called Hollywood Park. When I was little, I went to one at least once per week. My dad used to be a professional jockey so my mom, brother, and I would always go watch his races after school. Then, win or lose, he would take us all out to a nice dinner. I know many people don’t approve of how horses are treated with horseracing, but I honestly think it’s kind of magical the way a jockey and horse interact with each other when they’re going 65 mph with other horses just inches away going the same speed. Since my dad was a jockey I always got to go in the paddock before races to greet all the horses with a carrot or a pet on the nose. Surprisingly, I was never scared of these giant animals. I felt like when I walked up to a horse and made my presence known by whistling or saying the horse’s name the horse would look at me and we would make an agreement to be cool with one another. Out of my immediate family, I probably rode horses the least but that does not mean I didn’t interact with them less. I always enjoyed walking them and feeding them tons of carrots. One memorable moment I had with a horse was at the Hollywood racetrack and my most current visit reminded me of it. When I was about six I went to watch one of my dads races. Before the race I was petting one of the horses who was tied to a fence with no one around. It looked so uncomfortable but when I tried to pet its nose it stepped away. I became frustrated with the horse so I just sat next to him. After a few minutes of playing in the dirt the horse turned to me and stuck it’s nose in my face. I waved the horse to come close and instead of coming to stand next to me, the horse walked over and laid down right next to me with it’s next nearest me. The horses name was biscuit and he was just a two year old wanting some attention. I sat there petting the horse for a long time until my mom walked over to the stables and saw me sitting with Biscuit. She then came over and made me get up to leave and the horse stood up right when I did like he wanted to come with me. I’ll never forget that horses reaction. It was so humanlike and sad. Biscuit seemed like he just wanted a friend no matter what species it was. I think horses are the most majestic animals on the planet. Horses have always been my family’s choice of favorite animal. My mom used to play polo back in England when she was younger and my brother took riding lessons for many years. We even had a pet horse named Nemo for a few years. He became too dangerous for my brother and I to ride so my parents sold him to a mayor of some small town in Calgary where he was able to quit his racing days and be lazy eating grass and run around in open fields.
[Write Comment]
How To: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
How to Collaborate with a Non-human Animals
By Cara Moore (05/17/06 13:15:16)
Related animal: Human
Define your goals-
The first step to collaborating with another species is to decide what it is you would liek to accomplish. Decide what species you would like to work with and decide how you would like to collaborate with this species. Researching the species is an important step to be able to better understand your collaborator. Learn about your collaborators likes and dislikes, sensory abilities, natural habitat, and behavior patterns for starters, but don't limit yourself to only these categories. You could also search for previous art projects done with your species. Research can help you decide the best way to collaborate with your species.
Be patient-
Non-human animals may not be eager to work with humans. Most animals in the wild have a natural instinct to fear humans. It may take a lot of time before the animal feels comfortable collaborating with you. If you choose to work with a wild animal, be prepared to spend a lot of time before you see any results. For this reason it may be easier to work with domesticated animals. Yet even domesticated animals might not be eager to work with you. All of these animals will probably be confused, and probably don't know what you want from them. Just be patient, results will not come overnight.
Be flexible-
Although a lot of time should be committed to attempting to collaborate with your species, you should also keep in mind that your intended goal may not succeed. You should examine your efforts and evaluate whether or not your goals are possible. It is important to be flexible in your desired results, your species may not be capable or willing to fulfill your goals. If this is the case, revise your goals; instead of thinking of what you want to do, take into consideration what your collaborator would enjoy doing. Don't get too stuck on one idea, if you are flexible and patient enough, you will find an artistic form that will work well for the both of you.
[Write Comment]
By Cara Moore (05/17/06 13:15:16)
Related animal: Human
Define your goals-
The first step to collaborating with another species is to decide what it is you would liek to accomplish. Decide what species you would like to work with and decide how you would like to collaborate with this species. Researching the species is an important step to be able to better understand your collaborator. Learn about your collaborators likes and dislikes, sensory abilities, natural habitat, and behavior patterns for starters, but don't limit yourself to only these categories. You could also search for previous art projects done with your species. Research can help you decide the best way to collaborate with your species.
Be patient-
Non-human animals may not be eager to work with humans. Most animals in the wild have a natural instinct to fear humans. It may take a lot of time before the animal feels comfortable collaborating with you. If you choose to work with a wild animal, be prepared to spend a lot of time before you see any results. For this reason it may be easier to work with domesticated animals. Yet even domesticated animals might not be eager to work with you. All of these animals will probably be confused, and probably don't know what you want from them. Just be patient, results will not come overnight.
Be flexible-
Although a lot of time should be committed to attempting to collaborate with your species, you should also keep in mind that your intended goal may not succeed. You should examine your efforts and evaluate whether or not your goals are possible. It is important to be flexible in your desired results, your species may not be capable or willing to fulfill your goals. If this is the case, revise your goals; instead of thinking of what you want to do, take into consideration what your collaborator would enjoy doing. Don't get too stuck on one idea, if you are flexible and patient enough, you will find an artistic form that will work well for the both of you.
[Write Comment]
how to collaborate with animals
By Tauny Palm (05/23/06 11:08:40)
In order to collaborate with animals one must have the following:
1. access to an animal; That is my main issue right now....my snails have disappeared. When it rained all i found were dead snails :(
2. an animal that is willing to collaborate; like humans, some animals are camera shy! some animals just aren't excited about being a part of anything that doesnt involve food, sleep, rubbing their backs...
3. time; animals have not grasped the fact that you can only collaborate between the hours of 5-6pm on tuesday and thursdays...lol...in order to collaborate with them you need to be available when they are ready.
4. trust; the animal might be more willing to collaborate with you if it feels like it can trust you and you can trust it. Dog's for instance, can tell whether a person is afraid or tense around them and wont make it any easier on you.
5. patience; patience and time go together....don't give up!
6. understanding; you need to first set out a basic definition of what exactly you consider "collaboration." If you set your goal at hoping your cat will paint DaVinci's Last Supper then you will get pretty discouraged when you find nothing more than a paw print on your carpet! be realistic...
[Write Comment]
By Tauny Palm (05/23/06 11:08:40)
In order to collaborate with animals one must have the following:
1. access to an animal; That is my main issue right now....my snails have disappeared. When it rained all i found were dead snails :(
2. an animal that is willing to collaborate; like humans, some animals are camera shy! some animals just aren't excited about being a part of anything that doesnt involve food, sleep, rubbing their backs...
3. time; animals have not grasped the fact that you can only collaborate between the hours of 5-6pm on tuesday and thursdays...lol...in order to collaborate with them you need to be available when they are ready.
4. trust; the animal might be more willing to collaborate with you if it feels like it can trust you and you can trust it. Dog's for instance, can tell whether a person is afraid or tense around them and wont make it any easier on you.
5. patience; patience and time go together....don't give up!
6. understanding; you need to first set out a basic definition of what exactly you consider "collaboration." If you set your goal at hoping your cat will paint DaVinci's Last Supper then you will get pretty discouraged when you find nothing more than a paw print on your carpet! be realistic...
[Write Comment]
How To: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
How to Collaborate with Birds
By Britt Kilpatrick Brandi Rose (05/09/06 14:14:50)
Related animals: Bird, Human
Preface
As an artist, it is important to understand that your piece is about the creative process. You have to allow for the work to change from your original intention to its final outcome. When collaborating with another party, this is an especially important concept to keep in mind. Through your observation and interaction with the birds, you will discover which medium they want to use in collaboration with you, as well as their material(s) of choice. It is very likely that your original idea will immensely change with the evolution of the artwork. Embrace this as an opportunity to learn and be inspired through your collaborative partner!
How to Collaborate with Birds
1.Make a list of possible birds and/or environments with which you want to collaborate.
2.Research and refine list.
3.Through research, identify communication techniques, interactive behaviors within the species as well as feeding and migrating habits of each bird.
4.Investigate prior interspecies collaborative projects with bird of choice. Use the information as initial research to help develop your project ideas into a deeper understanding of the types of mediums you can use in your collaboration.
5.Observe your birds in its natural habitat.
6.Establish contact with your birds.
7.Experiment with different mediums and/or materials with the birds.
8.If birds respond to experimental materials, continue to step 9. If birds do not respond, rework your project ideas and repeat step 7.
9.Decide on materials.
10.Prepare medium for collaboration. If working in performance piece, extra research will be required to ensure your birds will be available to collaborate. If working in digital video, make sure you have the correct equipment to capture the birds animation and vocalization. If working in sculpture, use materials that are not hazardous to the health of the birds. Construct the piece to be placed in birds’ environment. If working in a 2D medium, make sure any materials the birds come in contact with are non-toxic for animals and humans.
11.Collaborate with the birds!
12.After collaboration, decide which part(s) of your art process will be most conducive to the gallery space in which you intend to exhibit.
13.Exhibit your work!
Quoted from Australian Government Marine Park Authority:
• Wherever possible keep well away from colonies of roosting or nesting seabirds.
• If you cannot avoid going near a colony, always keep a low profile. This will minimize the risk of disturbing birds. Stressed birds may move from their nests or chicks, or take flight, leaving their nest unprotected.
• When approaching birds, be quiet, avoid rapid or sudden movements, crouch low and use existing cover where possible.
• Keep noise to a minimum. Do not sound horns, sirens or loudspeakers.
• If seabirds exhibit stressful behaviour overhead, such as raucous calling or swooping, leave the area immediately.
• Be careful not to crush eggs and chicks — some are well camouflaged.
• Never attempt to touch birds, chicks or eggs.
• Avoid using lights near or in bird colonies.
• Take particular care on seabird islands at the following sensitive times:
o late afternoon and early evening
o during the hottest part of the day
o wet and/or cold weather
o moonlit nights
o when eggs, naked or downy
o chicks are in their nests.
• Learn about the habits and needs of seabirds to increase your appreciation of them.
Related Website: Australian Government Marine Park Authority
[Write Comment]
By Britt Kilpatrick Brandi Rose (05/09/06 14:14:50)
Related animals: Bird, Human
Preface
As an artist, it is important to understand that your piece is about the creative process. You have to allow for the work to change from your original intention to its final outcome. When collaborating with another party, this is an especially important concept to keep in mind. Through your observation and interaction with the birds, you will discover which medium they want to use in collaboration with you, as well as their material(s) of choice. It is very likely that your original idea will immensely change with the evolution of the artwork. Embrace this as an opportunity to learn and be inspired through your collaborative partner!
How to Collaborate with Birds
1.Make a list of possible birds and/or environments with which you want to collaborate.
2.Research and refine list.
3.Through research, identify communication techniques, interactive behaviors within the species as well as feeding and migrating habits of each bird.
4.Investigate prior interspecies collaborative projects with bird of choice. Use the information as initial research to help develop your project ideas into a deeper understanding of the types of mediums you can use in your collaboration.
5.Observe your birds in its natural habitat.
6.Establish contact with your birds.
7.Experiment with different mediums and/or materials with the birds.
8.If birds respond to experimental materials, continue to step 9. If birds do not respond, rework your project ideas and repeat step 7.
9.Decide on materials.
10.Prepare medium for collaboration. If working in performance piece, extra research will be required to ensure your birds will be available to collaborate. If working in digital video, make sure you have the correct equipment to capture the birds animation and vocalization. If working in sculpture, use materials that are not hazardous to the health of the birds. Construct the piece to be placed in birds’ environment. If working in a 2D medium, make sure any materials the birds come in contact with are non-toxic for animals and humans.
11.Collaborate with the birds!
12.After collaboration, decide which part(s) of your art process will be most conducive to the gallery space in which you intend to exhibit.
13.Exhibit your work!
Quoted from Australian Government Marine Park Authority:
• Wherever possible keep well away from colonies of roosting or nesting seabirds.
• If you cannot avoid going near a colony, always keep a low profile. This will minimize the risk of disturbing birds. Stressed birds may move from their nests or chicks, or take flight, leaving their nest unprotected.
• When approaching birds, be quiet, avoid rapid or sudden movements, crouch low and use existing cover where possible.
• Keep noise to a minimum. Do not sound horns, sirens or loudspeakers.
• If seabirds exhibit stressful behaviour overhead, such as raucous calling or swooping, leave the area immediately.
• Be careful not to crush eggs and chicks — some are well camouflaged.
• Never attempt to touch birds, chicks or eggs.
• Avoid using lights near or in bird colonies.
• Take particular care on seabird islands at the following sensitive times:
o late afternoon and early evening
o during the hottest part of the day
o wet and/or cold weather
o moonlit nights
o when eggs, naked or downy
o chicks are in their nests.
• Learn about the habits and needs of seabirds to increase your appreciation of them.
Related Website: Australian Government Marine Park Authority
[Write Comment]
How to Collaborate with other Species: A Beginners Compendium
By Michael Godwin Sam McKye (05/09/06 14:38:05)
Definitions: You are the instigator, your target species the collaborator.
First, assess you and your collaborators assets.
Visual – if both parties can see
Auditory – if everyone can hear
Tactile – if nerve ending > 2
Conceptual – if abstract thought is sufficiently developed
A closer inspection of assets reveals many steps to consider for collaboratory possibilities or pitfalls.
Visual
* Can both parties perceive colors, if so which ones?
* How about brightness?
* Consider infra and ultravision.
Auditory
* Physical constraints of amplitude and wavelength?
* Are you hearing all the sounds you are producing, is your collaborator responding to the sounds you think they are responding to.
* Consider patterns and rhythm, silence as well as sound. Can you add to or complement your collaborator's contribution?
* Does each party have a language? Is it possible to discover / formulate a common language?
Tactile
* Touch, and all its permutations.
* Be sensitive to interspecies thresholds and tolerances – loud can be painful.
Conceptual
* While humans have a tendency to conceptualize their artistic collaborations, it should be known that other species have progressed beyond such plebeian pursuits.
Once the potential sensory zones have been determined, how to produce a unique collaboration?
* Consider an intermediary if there is little or no overlap in your shared sensory zones. This could be another organism or perhaps some sort of tool – analog or digital.
* Consider that communication from one party may be interpreted by the other party in a completely different “sensory sphere.” For example, ultrasound may “feel” (tactile) to a recipient, while the instigator is utilizing auditory communication.
* Be particularly aware that interpretation of one species signal may be different than the intended meaning.
* Be aware of preferred spheres of communication. Some like tactile, some like auditory – research into intraspecies dynamics can be helpful for further understanding.
Next step is to go wild. Attempt interaction between collaborator and instigator. Play it safe – while fangs, claws, spines, tentacles, neuro-toxins, bad breath, lawyers, razor-sharp talons, beaks, severe constriction, plagues, and venoms don't kill, upset organisms may.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Godwin Sam McKye (05/09/06 14:38:05)
Definitions: You are the instigator, your target species the collaborator.
First, assess you and your collaborators assets.
Visual – if both parties can see
Auditory – if everyone can hear
Tactile – if nerve ending > 2
Conceptual – if abstract thought is sufficiently developed
A closer inspection of assets reveals many steps to consider for collaboratory possibilities or pitfalls.
Visual
* Can both parties perceive colors, if so which ones?
* How about brightness?
* Consider infra and ultravision.
Auditory
* Physical constraints of amplitude and wavelength?
* Are you hearing all the sounds you are producing, is your collaborator responding to the sounds you think they are responding to.
* Consider patterns and rhythm, silence as well as sound. Can you add to or complement your collaborator's contribution?
* Does each party have a language? Is it possible to discover / formulate a common language?
Tactile
* Touch, and all its permutations.
* Be sensitive to interspecies thresholds and tolerances – loud can be painful.
Conceptual
* While humans have a tendency to conceptualize their artistic collaborations, it should be known that other species have progressed beyond such plebeian pursuits.
Once the potential sensory zones have been determined, how to produce a unique collaboration?
* Consider an intermediary if there is little or no overlap in your shared sensory zones. This could be another organism or perhaps some sort of tool – analog or digital.
* Consider that communication from one party may be interpreted by the other party in a completely different “sensory sphere.” For example, ultrasound may “feel” (tactile) to a recipient, while the instigator is utilizing auditory communication.
* Be particularly aware that interpretation of one species signal may be different than the intended meaning.
* Be aware of preferred spheres of communication. Some like tactile, some like auditory – research into intraspecies dynamics can be helpful for further understanding.
Next step is to go wild. Attempt interaction between collaborator and instigator. Play it safe – while fangs, claws, spines, tentacles, neuro-toxins, bad breath, lawyers, razor-sharp talons, beaks, severe constriction, plagues, and venoms don't kill, upset organisms may.
[Write Comment]
How to find the inner artist in your very own pet
By laura hyatt (05/10/06 18:56:54)
Related animals: Dog, Human
The concept of interspecies collaboration may at first seem quite daunting. The most succesful collaborations always occur between artists who share a connection or bond. This can most obviously hence be found in your pet, whatever the species. Beleive it or not, every animal, in the domesticated sense, has the ability to connect with humans on some level, this is why they have been chosen to be domesticated. One of the best breeds I have found in my experience is dogs. They are agile, alert and interested in stimulation. If you do not have a pet, there are other ways of forming a similar bond with a new animal cohort. These include the following:
1. Begin a process of close and frequent contact.
2. The deepest types of bond are those founded on a relationship of affection and respect. By showing affection and love and not treating the dog as an inferior being, the animal will become more trusting of you.
3. A very good time to begin a collaboration is during a dog's "sensitive period" which occurs between the age of 3 and 8 weeks.
4.A recognition of uniqueness in the animal through increased familiarity will forge an even deeper bond.
5. Most importantly positive reinforcement is a very good way of working with dogs as opposed to punishment.
Dogs are extremely willing participants and collaborators. It is first very important to find out what the individual dog's interests might be. This is soumething that can really only be gained after spending a large amount of time with the animal.
Implications of Human-Animal Interactions and Bonds (Article) [Write Comment]
By laura hyatt (05/10/06 18:56:54)
Related animals: Dog, Human
The concept of interspecies collaboration may at first seem quite daunting. The most succesful collaborations always occur between artists who share a connection or bond. This can most obviously hence be found in your pet, whatever the species. Beleive it or not, every animal, in the domesticated sense, has the ability to connect with humans on some level, this is why they have been chosen to be domesticated. One of the best breeds I have found in my experience is dogs. They are agile, alert and interested in stimulation. If you do not have a pet, there are other ways of forming a similar bond with a new animal cohort. These include the following:
1. Begin a process of close and frequent contact.
2. The deepest types of bond are those founded on a relationship of affection and respect. By showing affection and love and not treating the dog as an inferior being, the animal will become more trusting of you.
3. A very good time to begin a collaboration is during a dog's "sensitive period" which occurs between the age of 3 and 8 weeks.
4.A recognition of uniqueness in the animal through increased familiarity will forge an even deeper bond.
5. Most importantly positive reinforcement is a very good way of working with dogs as opposed to punishment.
Dogs are extremely willing participants and collaborators. It is first very important to find out what the individual dog's interests might be. This is soumething that can really only be gained after spending a large amount of time with the animal.
How to Philosophically Deconstruct the Issues Surrounding Collaboration in Order
By Mark Batongmalaque Nichole van Beek (05/09/06 14:34:32)
Related animals: Bird, Deer, Whale
How to Philosophically Deconstruct the Issues Surrounding Collaboration in Order to Begin Inter-Species Collaboration as an Art Making Endeavor
Do animals make art? If so, is it similar to human art? For example, are the whales that respond to Jim Nollman's guitar playing singing along or are they complaining about the noise? Since there is no absolute common language between humans and non-humans, the answers to this line of questioning will remain purely speculative. Even so, the question of whether animals make art is of ultimate importance in order to foster consideration of non-human thought.
Must the human artist and the alternate species collaborator have analogous motives for participation in the project? Is the installation space created by Boursier-Mougenot titled From Here to Ear a collaboration considering we can imagine that the finches are not making art, but instead are engaging in daily activity such as eating and flying? Thinking about any collaboration in general, it is to be expected that individual parties involved have their own motives. With non-human species it is a given that motives will be different from those of humans.
Is there a moral question in collaborating with non-human species? Is it necessary for the non-human species to ‘enjoy’ their part in the collaboration? Can the simple act of responding to a human action, whether benign or malicious, be considered collaboration? For example, is chasing a deer through the woods any less of a collaboration than playing an electric guitar to whales or giving a paintbrush to elephants? In the case of chasing a deer, we can imagine that the deer feels threatened and generally ‘negative’, while we imagine that the whales enjoy the sounds of the guitar because they respond through their vocalizations. Unfortunately we cannot be absolutely certain that the whales are having a ‘positive’ experience.
What about the hierarchy of humans over other species? Is the human collaborator always dominant or is it possible to create a situation of equality? In 'I Like America and America Likes Me', do Joseph Beuys and the wolf have equal power? Both are in a situation of danger because the wolf may attack Beuys at any minute while the wolf has lost its ability to escape. In the end though, in this project Beuys has ultimate control because he has designed the situation and has the ability to communicate with the structures that enforce the situation. The wolf has no agency beyond that which Beuys has allowed it.
How do the issues of domesticity, tameness, and wildness affect the collaborative endeavor? In the instance of elephants painting, it is obvious that they engage in art making simply because they are tame. Would this project function with wild animals? Is it possible to consider a tame or domestic animal as having independent action since it is ultimately controlled by its dependence on humans for necessities?
The attempt to answer these questions as the initial step in collaborating with non-human species brings up many issues that may not have a resolution. This should not be an ultimate discouragement in collaborating with non-human species. Forge ahead. And remember, just collaborating with animals does not make art or interesting art.
[Write Comment]
By Mark Batongmalaque Nichole van Beek (05/09/06 14:34:32)
Related animals: Bird, Deer, Whale
How to Philosophically Deconstruct the Issues Surrounding Collaboration in Order to Begin Inter-Species Collaboration as an Art Making Endeavor
Do animals make art? If so, is it similar to human art? For example, are the whales that respond to Jim Nollman's guitar playing singing along or are they complaining about the noise? Since there is no absolute common language between humans and non-humans, the answers to this line of questioning will remain purely speculative. Even so, the question of whether animals make art is of ultimate importance in order to foster consideration of non-human thought.
Must the human artist and the alternate species collaborator have analogous motives for participation in the project? Is the installation space created by Boursier-Mougenot titled From Here to Ear a collaboration considering we can imagine that the finches are not making art, but instead are engaging in daily activity such as eating and flying? Thinking about any collaboration in general, it is to be expected that individual parties involved have their own motives. With non-human species it is a given that motives will be different from those of humans.
Is there a moral question in collaborating with non-human species? Is it necessary for the non-human species to ‘enjoy’ their part in the collaboration? Can the simple act of responding to a human action, whether benign or malicious, be considered collaboration? For example, is chasing a deer through the woods any less of a collaboration than playing an electric guitar to whales or giving a paintbrush to elephants? In the case of chasing a deer, we can imagine that the deer feels threatened and generally ‘negative’, while we imagine that the whales enjoy the sounds of the guitar because they respond through their vocalizations. Unfortunately we cannot be absolutely certain that the whales are having a ‘positive’ experience.
What about the hierarchy of humans over other species? Is the human collaborator always dominant or is it possible to create a situation of equality? In 'I Like America and America Likes Me', do Joseph Beuys and the wolf have equal power? Both are in a situation of danger because the wolf may attack Beuys at any minute while the wolf has lost its ability to escape. In the end though, in this project Beuys has ultimate control because he has designed the situation and has the ability to communicate with the structures that enforce the situation. The wolf has no agency beyond that which Beuys has allowed it.
How do the issues of domesticity, tameness, and wildness affect the collaborative endeavor? In the instance of elephants painting, it is obvious that they engage in art making simply because they are tame. Would this project function with wild animals? Is it possible to consider a tame or domestic animal as having independent action since it is ultimately controlled by its dependence on humans for necessities?
The attempt to answer these questions as the initial step in collaborating with non-human species brings up many issues that may not have a resolution. This should not be an ultimate discouragement in collaborating with non-human species. Forge ahead. And remember, just collaborating with animals does not make art or interesting art.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Speciesism and Animal Rights
How To Train Your Dragon
By Fey Cha (06/09/10 20:37:59)
Related animal: Dragon
I recently watched the DreamWorks film How to Train Your Dragon. Spoiler alert! I was su rprised at how much the moral of the story related to many of the subjects we have talked about in class. It stars a teenager of a Viking tribe that is constantly having problems with the local dragons. The main character feels like an outcast because nobody in the village thinks he has what it takes to be a dragon hunter. The fact that he’s a klutz doesn’t help with his situation. He eventually discovers an injured dragon in a nearby forest and instead of killing it he decides to help it out. The dragon befriends him and he gains the dragon’s trust. Through tending to the dragon’s needs the main character eventually learns how dragons really are. He discovers very useful information about the dragons. By using this newly found knowledge he uses bravery and brains up against the dragons instead of brute strength and big weapons.
The movie’s overall message tells us that we can learn so much from simply creating a relationship with another species. It is true that we have gotten to the point where we simply accept everything that scientists have told us about animals. We are so filled with assumptions that we think we actually know these animals are a certain way. But just like people, animals are all different. They each have different personalities and a sense of life. If we took the time to try and understand a species we could learn something new about them that could be completely different from what the scientists have discovered. This could lead to us not being so pretentious and lead us to becoming more open-minded therefore allowing us to become closer to the other species and learn how to live on this world with them.
[Write Comment]
By Fey Cha (06/09/10 20:37:59)
Related animal: Dragon
I recently watched the DreamWorks film How to Train Your Dragon. Spoiler alert! I was su rprised at how much the moral of the story related to many of the subjects we have talked about in class. It stars a teenager of a Viking tribe that is constantly having problems with the local dragons. The main character feels like an outcast because nobody in the village thinks he has what it takes to be a dragon hunter. The fact that he’s a klutz doesn’t help with his situation. He eventually discovers an injured dragon in a nearby forest and instead of killing it he decides to help it out. The dragon befriends him and he gains the dragon’s trust. Through tending to the dragon’s needs the main character eventually learns how dragons really are. He discovers very useful information about the dragons. By using this newly found knowledge he uses bravery and brains up against the dragons instead of brute strength and big weapons.
The movie’s overall message tells us that we can learn so much from simply creating a relationship with another species. It is true that we have gotten to the point where we simply accept everything that scientists have told us about animals. We are so filled with assumptions that we think we actually know these animals are a certain way. But just like people, animals are all different. They each have different personalities and a sense of life. If we took the time to try and understand a species we could learn something new about them that could be completely different from what the scientists have discovered. This could lead to us not being so pretentious and lead us to becoming more open-minded therefore allowing us to become closer to the other species and learn how to live on this world with them.
[Write Comment]
Huckleberry and Cowboy
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:35:04)
Interspecies Collaboration Week 6
For this assignment I want to talk about my relationship with two specific animals; Huckleberry the Black Bear and Cowboy the Great Horned Owl. Cowboy is my mom’s favorite animal at the animal park. Cowboy came to the Moonridge animal park with a severely broken wing, which was so bad that it had to be amputated. He then became a permanent resident at the park because of his inability to fly out in the wild. My mom interacts with him at least an hour per day whether it’s taking him on her rounds around the park to see the other animals or to feed him in his enclosure while trying to talk to him. When I first met Cowboy, I was shocked by how big and scary he looked. Even with one wing I felt he was going to fly and bite my nose off. I spent an entire summer in Big Bear and visited Cowboy nearly every day he was there. I even got the chance to feed him and was soon not scared at all, but fascinated by him. I wondered how he felt with his situation. He was a bird without the main physical aspects about birds. I then started going to the zoo to draw portraits of Cowboy. Him with one wing stretched out. I soon adapted these drawings into a drawing of a tattoo. It shows the mixture of my Mexican heritage with the frighteningly beautiful first interaction I had with him. The tattoo is how I felt at first and the action of me getting it put on my body shows the love I grew for this animal over a short time.
Huckleberry was hit by a car when he was just a cub and his injuries were so bad that he had to get his leg amputated. Over time he has adapted to being a three legged animal and appears to be happy where he is although I’m sure he would love to be out in the wild running around with other bears on all fours. Here is a video of Huckleberry on his own three legs.
Huckleberry the Three Legged Bear:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kF7eD--dg7w
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:35:04)
Interspecies Collaboration Week 6
For this assignment I want to talk about my relationship with two specific animals; Huckleberry the Black Bear and Cowboy the Great Horned Owl. Cowboy is my mom’s favorite animal at the animal park. Cowboy came to the Moonridge animal park with a severely broken wing, which was so bad that it had to be amputated. He then became a permanent resident at the park because of his inability to fly out in the wild. My mom interacts with him at least an hour per day whether it’s taking him on her rounds around the park to see the other animals or to feed him in his enclosure while trying to talk to him. When I first met Cowboy, I was shocked by how big and scary he looked. Even with one wing I felt he was going to fly and bite my nose off. I spent an entire summer in Big Bear and visited Cowboy nearly every day he was there. I even got the chance to feed him and was soon not scared at all, but fascinated by him. I wondered how he felt with his situation. He was a bird without the main physical aspects about birds. I then started going to the zoo to draw portraits of Cowboy. Him with one wing stretched out. I soon adapted these drawings into a drawing of a tattoo. It shows the mixture of my Mexican heritage with the frighteningly beautiful first interaction I had with him. The tattoo is how I felt at first and the action of me getting it put on my body shows the love I grew for this animal over a short time.
Huckleberry was hit by a car when he was just a cub and his injuries were so bad that he had to get his leg amputated. Over time he has adapted to being a three legged animal and appears to be happy where he is although I’m sure he would love to be out in the wild running around with other bears on all fours. Here is a video of Huckleberry on his own three legs.
Huckleberry the Three Legged Bear:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kF7eD--dg7w
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Other: Interspecies Communication
Human/Dolphin Interaction Through Distance
By Matthew Roy Reeves (05/13/10 18:38:30)
Related animal: Dolphin
Toni Frohoff expanded upon Jim Nollman's Gaia hypothesis through applying the concept to a working model of human/dolphin interaction. Chapter 5 addressed the hypothetical presence of boundaries that ought to exist between humans and dolphins. Chapter 6 delved into various human activities that are relevant to the human/dolphin community.
Can humans discipline their impulse to interact with dolphins? As a species, humans relate to dolphins and desire to be around them. We are drawn to them. Though I have never encountered a dolphin, I know that I would happily approach one in the wild.
Frohoff opposes the natural human impulse to interact with dolphin side of our unique interspecies connection. "I may be two of the only people on the planet who would prefer that dolphins ignored us" (146). She is a professional in the field, and knows the big negatives outweighing the pleasant positives. I will let her experience speak for my considerations.
The Gaia hypothesis defines me as a creature in the human species; as one I must approach dolphins with discipline, and may have to show my desire for communication by intentionally avoiding communication.
Dolphin DREAMTIME (Book)
Dolphins in the Wild (Movie) [Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves (05/13/10 18:38:30)
Related animal: Dolphin
Toni Frohoff expanded upon Jim Nollman's Gaia hypothesis through applying the concept to a working model of human/dolphin interaction. Chapter 5 addressed the hypothetical presence of boundaries that ought to exist between humans and dolphins. Chapter 6 delved into various human activities that are relevant to the human/dolphin community.
Can humans discipline their impulse to interact with dolphins? As a species, humans relate to dolphins and desire to be around them. We are drawn to them. Though I have never encountered a dolphin, I know that I would happily approach one in the wild.
Frohoff opposes the natural human impulse to interact with dolphin side of our unique interspecies connection. "I may be two of the only people on the planet who would prefer that dolphins ignored us" (146). She is a professional in the field, and knows the big negatives outweighing the pleasant positives. I will let her experience speak for my considerations.
The Gaia hypothesis defines me as a creature in the human species; as one I must approach dolphins with discipline, and may have to show my desire for communication by intentionally avoiding communication.
Reflection: Animal Communication
Idea for a collaboration
By Jorden Hirsch (04/07/10 09:58:44)
Related animal: Frog
After attending the first classes I was not sure what animal I really wanted to work with. I have cats at home in Santa Barbara, who are great, but I didn't feel like I could make an interesting project using the fur balls. Then one day I went to my dad's house up Mission Canyon and after staying for a couple hours into the night I realized the animals I wanted to collaborate with! Outside of his house, in the front yard, are a couple great little ponds and with the spring have come many frogs! I'm hoping to work with them through recording and interactions to make a great project. We'll see how it goes!
[Write Comment]
By Jorden Hirsch (04/07/10 09:58:44)
Related animal: Frog
After attending the first classes I was not sure what animal I really wanted to work with. I have cats at home in Santa Barbara, who are great, but I didn't feel like I could make an interesting project using the fur balls. Then one day I went to my dad's house up Mission Canyon and after staying for a couple hours into the night I realized the animals I wanted to collaborate with! Outside of his house, in the front yard, are a couple great little ponds and with the spring have come many frogs! I'm hoping to work with them through recording and interactions to make a great project. We'll see how it goes!
[Write Comment]
Ideas for Art Projects
By Rachel Fleming (04/19/14 18:35:48)
The lectures and discussions I heard at the Interrogating Methodologies event gave me food for thought. I had some very creative ideas for projects with animals while the panel was being asked questions. I thought about what kind of art I wanted to accomplish. Do I want to make a statement about animal rights? Do I want to make art as a tribute to a connection I shared with an animal? Do I want to make something aesthetically pleasing? I was drawn to the idea of making something small and structural with an animal. Perhaps the animal would make something it usually makes during the course of its life using tools I provided, but being unaware it was making art in the process. I like the idea I found of giving caddis fly larvae jewels from which they would construct their bodily casings.
Then I wondered, what animal would I use? Well, what animals do I have available? I was immediately aware that I did not want to make something using a common animal like a dog or cat. I wanted to think of something unique to do with a unique animal. I realized I had several options at the REEF. I also thought about what animals I had available outside that I could just catch and use temporarily. I didn’t want to use anything that could be dangerous or that would be controversial if subject to even mild stress. I thought of insects, mollusks, arachnids, and other invertebrates.
So, I made a list:
• Ants
• Caterpillars
• Butterflies
• Crickets
• Worms
• Beetles
• Snails
• Abalone
• Octopus
• Nudibranch
• Aphids
• Crabs
• Anemone
• Barnacle
• Mussel
• Sand fleas
I even thought of a few vertebrates:
• Frogs (and tadpoles)
• Birds
• A friend’s snake or toad
I wondered if there was any way to use biomineralization, but decided I would probably need to know a lot more about the process to use it. Even then, it would probably be too intrusive.
Then I thought about making a species “perform” without realizing it was doing so. For example, I saw a video on Youtube of a “duck slide,” in which ducks would climb up a ramp and reach for food in a trough above a slippery slide. If they slipped, they would slide down and get back up for more food. This, to me, was an art form. However, I decided that no interspecies connection could be made, and that this probably wouldn’t meet the goals of the course. It would be entertaining for the final exhibition, though.
I also thought about using a small flying bug like a gnat as a performing species. I once observed a gnat on a paper while I was studying that would adjust its position when I gently blew air toward it. The gnat would face the direction of the air flow, probably to minimize its disturbance. I thought this was fascinating. It can probably be repeated with many gnats, if I first mist their wings so that they cannot fly around. If I then apply a soft breeze in one direction, I may be able to get them to align in unison. I could then change the direction of the breeze so that they appear to be “dancing” by changing direction. This may or may not work, though. It would have to be an experiment. The interspecies connection relies on the fact that we can empathize with the gnats and understand why they might want to reorient themselves when exposed to a chill breeze. We can feel for them.
Then I began thinking about ideas that have to do with each species I had listed.
Ants: With ants I could potentially find a way to map their trails and replicate their movement. However, this has probably been done before and was the most obvious thing I could think of. I then thought of subjecting the ants to a decision, such as choosing between crossroads. We can emphasize with their decision making. Also, food preference is along the same lines. We can probably predict as humans which food source an ant would go for (although, our intuition about sugars and fats being tasty isn’t always accurate across species…cats, for example, don’t like sugary foods. We human needed high-energy foods for survival at several points in our evolutionary history).
Caterpillars: Again, food preference, or I could map their trails. I then thought of something very interesting. What if I could make art out of the patterns they leave on leaves? What if I could control where they can and cannot eat on a leaf to make a carving, like on a jack-o-lantern?
Butterflies: Do butterflies have a flower preference? What if I removed nectar from a certain kind of flower. How many times will they try receiving nectar from this certain kind of flower before they “give up” and move onto something else?
Crickets: This one would be interesting for me, since I dislike crickets more than spiders. I would be forced to make a connection with crickets. There are plenty around, and they are in pet store, so obtaining them wouldn’t be difficult. I could wait for them to molt and then make a small sculpture using the molts to emulate an interaction I observed from the same crickets. I don't know what the significance would be, though.
Worms: Also numerous. I can get an ant farm and fill it with dirt. I can take photos of the patterns they make while underground. I could even influence where they go, perhaps, to make patterns. There is probably some connection I can make between the worms and myself as I make it, or some resemblance between the worms and humanity. Sounds cheesy, but there might actually be some decent metaphors I can draw from it.
Beetles:
There is a type of beetle I observed on the tips, and only the tips, of a certain kind of bush- coyote bush one morning. Maybe there is some metaphor I can make between the beetles drive to be at the top of the branch and the drive of humans to make it to the tops of mountains (or careers). Then again, I'm sure there's some evolutionary advantage to this behavior, such as gaining warmth or finding a mate.
To be continued…
Beach hoppers sound like a good idea too. There are plenty of those nearby.
I also thought about making art out of my scientific process of discovering reactions or preferences of animals. Would my hypotheses say something about my connection to other life forms?
[Write Comment]
By Rachel Fleming (04/19/14 18:35:48)
The lectures and discussions I heard at the Interrogating Methodologies event gave me food for thought. I had some very creative ideas for projects with animals while the panel was being asked questions. I thought about what kind of art I wanted to accomplish. Do I want to make a statement about animal rights? Do I want to make art as a tribute to a connection I shared with an animal? Do I want to make something aesthetically pleasing? I was drawn to the idea of making something small and structural with an animal. Perhaps the animal would make something it usually makes during the course of its life using tools I provided, but being unaware it was making art in the process. I like the idea I found of giving caddis fly larvae jewels from which they would construct their bodily casings.
Then I wondered, what animal would I use? Well, what animals do I have available? I was immediately aware that I did not want to make something using a common animal like a dog or cat. I wanted to think of something unique to do with a unique animal. I realized I had several options at the REEF. I also thought about what animals I had available outside that I could just catch and use temporarily. I didn’t want to use anything that could be dangerous or that would be controversial if subject to even mild stress. I thought of insects, mollusks, arachnids, and other invertebrates.
So, I made a list:
• Ants
• Caterpillars
• Butterflies
• Crickets
• Worms
• Beetles
• Snails
• Abalone
• Octopus
• Nudibranch
• Aphids
• Crabs
• Anemone
• Barnacle
• Mussel
• Sand fleas
I even thought of a few vertebrates:
• Frogs (and tadpoles)
• Birds
• A friend’s snake or toad
I wondered if there was any way to use biomineralization, but decided I would probably need to know a lot more about the process to use it. Even then, it would probably be too intrusive.
Then I thought about making a species “perform” without realizing it was doing so. For example, I saw a video on Youtube of a “duck slide,” in which ducks would climb up a ramp and reach for food in a trough above a slippery slide. If they slipped, they would slide down and get back up for more food. This, to me, was an art form. However, I decided that no interspecies connection could be made, and that this probably wouldn’t meet the goals of the course. It would be entertaining for the final exhibition, though.
I also thought about using a small flying bug like a gnat as a performing species. I once observed a gnat on a paper while I was studying that would adjust its position when I gently blew air toward it. The gnat would face the direction of the air flow, probably to minimize its disturbance. I thought this was fascinating. It can probably be repeated with many gnats, if I first mist their wings so that they cannot fly around. If I then apply a soft breeze in one direction, I may be able to get them to align in unison. I could then change the direction of the breeze so that they appear to be “dancing” by changing direction. This may or may not work, though. It would have to be an experiment. The interspecies connection relies on the fact that we can empathize with the gnats and understand why they might want to reorient themselves when exposed to a chill breeze. We can feel for them.
Then I began thinking about ideas that have to do with each species I had listed.
Ants: With ants I could potentially find a way to map their trails and replicate their movement. However, this has probably been done before and was the most obvious thing I could think of. I then thought of subjecting the ants to a decision, such as choosing between crossroads. We can emphasize with their decision making. Also, food preference is along the same lines. We can probably predict as humans which food source an ant would go for (although, our intuition about sugars and fats being tasty isn’t always accurate across species…cats, for example, don’t like sugary foods. We human needed high-energy foods for survival at several points in our evolutionary history).
Caterpillars: Again, food preference, or I could map their trails. I then thought of something very interesting. What if I could make art out of the patterns they leave on leaves? What if I could control where they can and cannot eat on a leaf to make a carving, like on a jack-o-lantern?
Butterflies: Do butterflies have a flower preference? What if I removed nectar from a certain kind of flower. How many times will they try receiving nectar from this certain kind of flower before they “give up” and move onto something else?
Crickets: This one would be interesting for me, since I dislike crickets more than spiders. I would be forced to make a connection with crickets. There are plenty around, and they are in pet store, so obtaining them wouldn’t be difficult. I could wait for them to molt and then make a small sculpture using the molts to emulate an interaction I observed from the same crickets. I don't know what the significance would be, though.
Worms: Also numerous. I can get an ant farm and fill it with dirt. I can take photos of the patterns they make while underground. I could even influence where they go, perhaps, to make patterns. There is probably some connection I can make between the worms and myself as I make it, or some resemblance between the worms and humanity. Sounds cheesy, but there might actually be some decent metaphors I can draw from it.
Beetles:
There is a type of beetle I observed on the tips, and only the tips, of a certain kind of bush- coyote bush one morning. Maybe there is some metaphor I can make between the beetles drive to be at the top of the branch and the drive of humans to make it to the tops of mountains (or careers). Then again, I'm sure there's some evolutionary advantage to this behavior, such as gaining warmth or finding a mate.
To be continued…
Beach hoppers sound like a good idea too. There are plenty of those nearby.
I also thought about making art out of my scientific process of discovering reactions or preferences of animals. Would my hypotheses say something about my connection to other life forms?
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Other Related Research
In Flight at Night
By Cori Arnold (05/13/09 09:52:29)
Related animal: Unidentified Bird
Last night I decided to spend sometime in my backyard and take advantage of my new heater. When I walked out the backdoor I heard an odd sound that sounded similar to the howling of the wind coming through a crack in a door. I thought it was a little critter hanging out in the yard, since they often do this. I slowly peeked around the corner to where the backyard is located and could not see anything visible; no small or large animals. The fences in my yard are covered with Ivy and Morning Glories so I began to wonder if maybe what I was hearing were rats traveling throughout it. I thought this would be slightly odd, considering I have never before found rats living in the Ivy and I have been living here for almost four years. I began to rethink the sound and wondered if maybe it was a bat, so I began looking up into the sky anytime the noise grew closer. In the far distant, night sky I finally made out what looked like a few bats, or so I thought, cruising around above where I was sitting. I became concerned that the bats might start to swoop down at me while I was sitting outside, so I decided to keep looking up and watching them, when all of the sudden a giant bird crossed extremely close overhead. I quickly realized that I was completely wrong about the bats and that there was something larger cruising above where I was seated. I was only able to get two good looks at the bird. I could make out that it had a giant wingspan with white and black underneath its wings and that it also was making the sound I initially mentioned. I have absolutely no idea what type of bird this was flying above my house last night, but desperately want to find out! I have already ruled out the idea of it being an owl, because I know what they look like from underneath and also can recognize the sounds they make. I obviously know it was too large to be a bat, so now I am slightly stumped as to what it could have been.
Here is what I do know:
It had a large wingspan.
Must be nocturnal.
Under it's wings were white and black.
Makes a howling wind through a crack sound.
If anyone has any thoughts about this, please let me know! Or if you can think of any great websites, where I could possibly listen to different bird sounds that would be awesome, I am very open to any ideas and would LOVE to determine what it was that I saw, since it was quite an amazing moment!
[Write Comment]
By Cori Arnold (05/13/09 09:52:29)
Related animal: Unidentified Bird
Last night I decided to spend sometime in my backyard and take advantage of my new heater. When I walked out the backdoor I heard an odd sound that sounded similar to the howling of the wind coming through a crack in a door. I thought it was a little critter hanging out in the yard, since they often do this. I slowly peeked around the corner to where the backyard is located and could not see anything visible; no small or large animals. The fences in my yard are covered with Ivy and Morning Glories so I began to wonder if maybe what I was hearing were rats traveling throughout it. I thought this would be slightly odd, considering I have never before found rats living in the Ivy and I have been living here for almost four years. I began to rethink the sound and wondered if maybe it was a bat, so I began looking up into the sky anytime the noise grew closer. In the far distant, night sky I finally made out what looked like a few bats, or so I thought, cruising around above where I was sitting. I became concerned that the bats might start to swoop down at me while I was sitting outside, so I decided to keep looking up and watching them, when all of the sudden a giant bird crossed extremely close overhead. I quickly realized that I was completely wrong about the bats and that there was something larger cruising above where I was seated. I was only able to get two good looks at the bird. I could make out that it had a giant wingspan with white and black underneath its wings and that it also was making the sound I initially mentioned. I have absolutely no idea what type of bird this was flying above my house last night, but desperately want to find out! I have already ruled out the idea of it being an owl, because I know what they look like from underneath and also can recognize the sounds they make. I obviously know it was too large to be a bat, so now I am slightly stumped as to what it could have been.
Here is what I do know:
It had a large wingspan.
Must be nocturnal.
Under it's wings were white and black.
Makes a howling wind through a crack sound.
If anyone has any thoughts about this, please let me know! Or if you can think of any great websites, where I could possibly listen to different bird sounds that would be awesome, I am very open to any ideas and would LOVE to determine what it was that I saw, since it was quite an amazing moment!
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
In Response to Animal Communicator Barbara Janell
By Danielle Terhune (04/22/10 11:20:10)
Related animals: Mosquito Eater, Tree
The weekend after the workshop with animal communicator Barbara Janell was very interesting. It started off on Friday night with my friends and I playing Jungle Juice Pong. The back sliding door was open and a Mosquito Eater decided to fly in and observe or game. My friend Joel was about to kill it when I screamed “No!” I then asked my friend to let me try to communicate with it and ask it to leave. They were stunned, because the game had only started and i hadn’t even had anything to drink yet. I then talked to them about Barbara Janell, and explained our exercises of trying to get into an animal’s head. So after awhile of concentrating on the insect it flew away, unharmed by my friends. They laughed and called it coincidence.
I later related my story about the tree communication, which interested me the most among all the things we went through in the workshop. They laughed and so did I, but I told them I did honestly believe I had some form of exchange with the tree. I told them that they can cure migraines and such and make you feel all tingly. They were interested, but unbelieving. It wasn’t until Sunday that my friend Joel told me he tried communicating with a tree. He said he didn’t get anything from it. I was amazed that he even tried on his own time. He’s not the type of person to believe in this sort of thing. I realized then that there must be some deep connection that has gotten severed between humans and nature, that even someone who can go from wanting to kill a bug because its annoying to trying out talking to a tree, is striving for some deeper connection to nature. I still find myself feeling the need to touch the tree I communicated with as I pass by it, and to even glance towards it when I see it from the bike path and mentally say “hi.” Yes, I feel it is still quite strange and unusual to be talking to a tree or looking at it like a living being with feelings and yes, even having some healing powers, but I suppose that’s what this class is all about, stepping outside of the social norms of ‘human vs nature’ and applying it to the concept of ‘human & nature.’
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (04/22/10 11:20:10)
Related animals: Mosquito Eater, Tree
The weekend after the workshop with animal communicator Barbara Janell was very interesting. It started off on Friday night with my friends and I playing Jungle Juice Pong. The back sliding door was open and a Mosquito Eater decided to fly in and observe or game. My friend Joel was about to kill it when I screamed “No!” I then asked my friend to let me try to communicate with it and ask it to leave. They were stunned, because the game had only started and i hadn’t even had anything to drink yet. I then talked to them about Barbara Janell, and explained our exercises of trying to get into an animal’s head. So after awhile of concentrating on the insect it flew away, unharmed by my friends. They laughed and called it coincidence.
I later related my story about the tree communication, which interested me the most among all the things we went through in the workshop. They laughed and so did I, but I told them I did honestly believe I had some form of exchange with the tree. I told them that they can cure migraines and such and make you feel all tingly. They were interested, but unbelieving. It wasn’t until Sunday that my friend Joel told me he tried communicating with a tree. He said he didn’t get anything from it. I was amazed that he even tried on his own time. He’s not the type of person to believe in this sort of thing. I realized then that there must be some deep connection that has gotten severed between humans and nature, that even someone who can go from wanting to kill a bug because its annoying to trying out talking to a tree, is striving for some deeper connection to nature. I still find myself feeling the need to touch the tree I communicated with as I pass by it, and to even glance towards it when I see it from the bike path and mentally say “hi.” Yes, I feel it is still quite strange and unusual to be talking to a tree or looking at it like a living being with feelings and yes, even having some healing powers, but I suppose that’s what this class is all about, stepping outside of the social norms of ‘human vs nature’ and applying it to the concept of ‘human & nature.’
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
In Response to Charlie Russell's response to the death of Timothy Treadwell
By Danielle Terhune (05/10/10 17:35:37)
Related animal: Bear
“I had asked (Timothy) the question – “why would you not take the precautions that we both knew would work?” He angrily told me that he was essentially a trespasser in their territory and therefore he did not want to hurt them in any way. In answer to this I confronted him with the possibility that his death could undo everything that he and others were trying to change in people’s attitude towards bears.”
When I watched Herzog’s “Grizzly Man” I felt much the same way. Why would Treadwell go to all the trouble and put years of his life into showing the world the “humane” side of Grizzlies, when if one killed him, would make make all of his work for nothing. It is a sad thing that Treadwell died the way that he did, but I really can’t imagine him dying any other way. It is a sad thing, but understandable. I think Russell has every right to use pepper spray and electric fences, because it keeps not only himself safe but also the validity of his research safe. People use pepper spray on other people for protection. There is nothing wrong with essentially harmless protection as a deterrent against unwanted engagements.
“If Timothy had spent those thirteen years killing bears and guiding others to do the same, eventually being killed by one, he would have been remembered in Alaska with great admiration. That story would have meant nothing to Herzog because there would have been no lines crossed what-so-ever.”
I think that Russell brings up another valid point, it is amazing that Timothy lasted as long as he did unharmed and that if he had been on the opposite side of the spectrum killing bears instead of loving on them, he would have essentially remained nameless and uninteresting to the general public. Herzog does make Treadwell seem crazy, and my own personal view of Treadwell being uneducated in the field and therefore unqualified to work with bears at such a close proximity leads me to feel really no pity on his death. He could have taken precautions, but didn’t. His aspirations got much too big for his abilities and when his end came his story was prime for the taking by Herzog. I do not like how Herzog made a mockery of everyone he interviewed and the way in which he constantly portrayed Treadwell as a nut case, but I feel Treadwell and his associates did make it all to easy for Herzog to take advantage of everything Treadwell stood for.
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (05/10/10 17:35:37)
Related animal: Bear
“I had asked (Timothy) the question – “why would you not take the precautions that we both knew would work?” He angrily told me that he was essentially a trespasser in their territory and therefore he did not want to hurt them in any way. In answer to this I confronted him with the possibility that his death could undo everything that he and others were trying to change in people’s attitude towards bears.”
When I watched Herzog’s “Grizzly Man” I felt much the same way. Why would Treadwell go to all the trouble and put years of his life into showing the world the “humane” side of Grizzlies, when if one killed him, would make make all of his work for nothing. It is a sad thing that Treadwell died the way that he did, but I really can’t imagine him dying any other way. It is a sad thing, but understandable. I think Russell has every right to use pepper spray and electric fences, because it keeps not only himself safe but also the validity of his research safe. People use pepper spray on other people for protection. There is nothing wrong with essentially harmless protection as a deterrent against unwanted engagements.
“If Timothy had spent those thirteen years killing bears and guiding others to do the same, eventually being killed by one, he would have been remembered in Alaska with great admiration. That story would have meant nothing to Herzog because there would have been no lines crossed what-so-ever.”
I think that Russell brings up another valid point, it is amazing that Timothy lasted as long as he did unharmed and that if he had been on the opposite side of the spectrum killing bears instead of loving on them, he would have essentially remained nameless and uninteresting to the general public. Herzog does make Treadwell seem crazy, and my own personal view of Treadwell being uneducated in the field and therefore unqualified to work with bears at such a close proximity leads me to feel really no pity on his death. He could have taken precautions, but didn’t. His aspirations got much too big for his abilities and when his end came his story was prime for the taking by Herzog. I do not like how Herzog made a mockery of everyone he interviewed and the way in which he constantly portrayed Treadwell as a nut case, but I feel Treadwell and his associates did make it all to easy for Herzog to take advantage of everything Treadwell stood for.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Play Behavior
In Response to Dolphin Mysteries by Toni Frohoff and Kathleen M. Dudzinski
By Danielle Terhune (05/13/10 11:37:43)
Related animals: Dolphin, Whale
"We need to communicate our findings about dolphins to instill better manners in humans when interacting around dolphins. This includes learning how to avoid communication." (149). I had no idea that dolphins in the wild were so interactive with humans. I just assumed shows like Flipper was another one of Hollywood's exaggerations. But as research shows, dating all the way back to ancient times dolphins and humans have always interacted with each other, and usually on a positive level. The negative level is the communication with these amazing creatures. I like how Toni emphasized this point, because I'm not sure if I would have thought of it. This quarter I have learned to look at animals as individuals outside of their species. It has turned my viewing of animals upside down. People have different personalities, so it only makes sense that dolphins, who are so similar to us would have individual personalities. I like how Toni emphasizes this point with the examples of the dolphins and whales becoming a part of the community that they resided near by hanging our more with people then the dolphins. This in turn made people of the community more aware of their ocean environments and care about the local ocean life. The idea of dolphins as ambassadors is a wonderful thing, and I believe that whether we have chosen to observe this or not, it has definitely been that way throughout history.
Two Questions
In the book it is mentioned that "Relatively few people (compared tot he total human population) will have the opportunity to visit dolphins in the wild; therefore, captive dolphins, when well cared for in an enriched environment, can act as ambassadors for their wild counterparts."
Question 1. So does this mean that dolphins can enjoy and live a rich life in captivity, especially when they're put on display for strangers everyday?
Question 2. Given the fact that "lone" whales and dolphins exist and prefer the company of people over their own kind, do you think that these dolphins would be prime candidates for ambassadors in captivity?
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (05/13/10 11:37:43)
Related animals: Dolphin, Whale
"We need to communicate our findings about dolphins to instill better manners in humans when interacting around dolphins. This includes learning how to avoid communication." (149). I had no idea that dolphins in the wild were so interactive with humans. I just assumed shows like Flipper was another one of Hollywood's exaggerations. But as research shows, dating all the way back to ancient times dolphins and humans have always interacted with each other, and usually on a positive level. The negative level is the communication with these amazing creatures. I like how Toni emphasized this point, because I'm not sure if I would have thought of it. This quarter I have learned to look at animals as individuals outside of their species. It has turned my viewing of animals upside down. People have different personalities, so it only makes sense that dolphins, who are so similar to us would have individual personalities. I like how Toni emphasizes this point with the examples of the dolphins and whales becoming a part of the community that they resided near by hanging our more with people then the dolphins. This in turn made people of the community more aware of their ocean environments and care about the local ocean life. The idea of dolphins as ambassadors is a wonderful thing, and I believe that whether we have chosen to observe this or not, it has definitely been that way throughout history.
Two Questions
In the book it is mentioned that "Relatively few people (compared tot he total human population) will have the opportunity to visit dolphins in the wild; therefore, captive dolphins, when well cared for in an enriched environment, can act as ambassadors for their wild counterparts."
Question 1. So does this mean that dolphins can enjoy and live a rich life in captivity, especially when they're put on display for strangers everyday?
Question 2. Given the fact that "lone" whales and dolphins exist and prefer the company of people over their own kind, do you think that these dolphins would be prime candidates for ambassadors in captivity?
[Write Comment]
Other: Interspecies Communication
In Response to Jim Nollman's The Man Who Talks to Whales: The Art of Interspecie
By Danielle Terhune (04/21/10 18:23:04)
“The Man Who Talks to Whales: The Art of Interspecies Communication” by Jim Nollman
In chapter one of Jim Nollman’s book, titled “The Turkey Trot” I appreciated the long introduction into interspecies communication. The process at in which Nollman discovered his own way in collaboration with a Turkey, by allowing the Turkey to be just as much of an individual in the ‘flute and gobble’ composition was very insightful. I was glad that he reached the conclusion that collaboration with animals is being on equal terms with them.
The first chapter also reminded me of a very similar epiphany I had in animal collaboration with my dog Comet, when my parents came to visit me in early April. The experience of collaborating with my dog lead to the same conclusion that Nollman had with the Turkey. That the animal and human have equal parts in a collaboration. A human cannot force or modify the animal to his or her will. The animal must have a will and desire of its own.
The following is an excerpt taken from my first art project/reflections of my interaction with my dog labeled, “Common Interests” that I posted on the Interspecies Collaboration website:
“What I gleaned from this observation of Comet was that my dog, and I believe animals in general, will act outside of normal character when influenced by humans. Of course this is general knowledge but I believe it goes beyond humans "tainting" an animals natural actions. Our influence on Comet taking interest was positive because we initiated his interest without forcing it. If we had dragged Comet up to the pond by his collar he would not have been pleased and would have run in the opposite direction, not caring about the Koi fish. Even if we had tried to coax him over with a treat, he would have sensed something fishy and again ignored our requests, as has happened in the past with all other man-made bodies of water. It was the fact that we took interest in something and then included Comet in our discoveries that gave him what he needed to respond positively to something he generally hates.
This experience brought to an understanding of animal collaboration. We as humans can encourage the animal to take part in what we are doing, but if they show no interest then we need to move on. If we have to force, trick, or bribe the animal to pay attention then its not collaboration. When we are willing to view the animal as an equal, they will respond in turn.”
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (04/21/10 18:23:04)
“The Man Who Talks to Whales: The Art of Interspecies Communication” by Jim Nollman
In chapter one of Jim Nollman’s book, titled “The Turkey Trot” I appreciated the long introduction into interspecies communication. The process at in which Nollman discovered his own way in collaboration with a Turkey, by allowing the Turkey to be just as much of an individual in the ‘flute and gobble’ composition was very insightful. I was glad that he reached the conclusion that collaboration with animals is being on equal terms with them.
The first chapter also reminded me of a very similar epiphany I had in animal collaboration with my dog Comet, when my parents came to visit me in early April. The experience of collaborating with my dog lead to the same conclusion that Nollman had with the Turkey. That the animal and human have equal parts in a collaboration. A human cannot force or modify the animal to his or her will. The animal must have a will and desire of its own.
The following is an excerpt taken from my first art project/reflections of my interaction with my dog labeled, “Common Interests” that I posted on the Interspecies Collaboration website:
“What I gleaned from this observation of Comet was that my dog, and I believe animals in general, will act outside of normal character when influenced by humans. Of course this is general knowledge but I believe it goes beyond humans "tainting" an animals natural actions. Our influence on Comet taking interest was positive because we initiated his interest without forcing it. If we had dragged Comet up to the pond by his collar he would not have been pleased and would have run in the opposite direction, not caring about the Koi fish. Even if we had tried to coax him over with a treat, he would have sensed something fishy and again ignored our requests, as has happened in the past with all other man-made bodies of water. It was the fact that we took interest in something and then included Comet in our discoveries that gave him what he needed to respond positively to something he generally hates.
This experience brought to an understanding of animal collaboration. We as humans can encourage the animal to take part in what we are doing, but if they show no interest then we need to move on. If we have to force, trick, or bribe the animal to pay attention then its not collaboration. When we are willing to view the animal as an equal, they will respond in turn.”
[Write Comment]
In Response to the film "Grizzly Man"
By Danielle Terhune (05/10/10 17:32:17)
Related animal: Bear
After watching this film I have come to the conclusion that Timothy Treadwell was irresponsible, self-destructive, and delusional. I am aware that the director of the documentary, Werner Herzog, made everyone in the film seem dimwitted and awkward through his interviews and filming techniques, yet I base my conclusion on Treadwell and his states of delusions strictly from his videos and personal claims surrounding the bears and his goals. My first problem with Treadwell is that he not only blurred the boundaries between man and wild beast, but completely crossed them. He gave himself and those around him a false sense of security based on the fact that he lasted for so many summers with the grizzlies. There is a sense of awe and wonder how a man could live among the wild for so long, but I feel he definitely lost himself in the animal world. He mind became twisted and confused. His obsession was very unhealthy in the mental capacity. Because of his stupidity and false sense of security he died, his girlfriend died and a bear died. Herzog definitely played excepts from over hundreds of hours or more of film that portrayed Treadwell as an unbalanced man who lost his way and direction. He showed clips that would make even the most adamant lovers of animals and animal research question the validity of Treadwell. These clips may have been detrimental to the popular view of Treadwell, but I feel it is important to show his true character as well, to deter other enthusiasts from repeating his same mistakes. I think that Treadwell, like Charlie Russell did originally set out to do good, but in the mix of it all Treadwell lost his way and more importantly his mind. This film did not make me believe bears to be heartless and mindless as Herzog concluded on, but I do believe this documentary was a warning to respect Grizzlies and their wild habitat.
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (05/10/10 17:32:17)
Related animal: Bear
After watching this film I have come to the conclusion that Timothy Treadwell was irresponsible, self-destructive, and delusional. I am aware that the director of the documentary, Werner Herzog, made everyone in the film seem dimwitted and awkward through his interviews and filming techniques, yet I base my conclusion on Treadwell and his states of delusions strictly from his videos and personal claims surrounding the bears and his goals. My first problem with Treadwell is that he not only blurred the boundaries between man and wild beast, but completely crossed them. He gave himself and those around him a false sense of security based on the fact that he lasted for so many summers with the grizzlies. There is a sense of awe and wonder how a man could live among the wild for so long, but I feel he definitely lost himself in the animal world. He mind became twisted and confused. His obsession was very unhealthy in the mental capacity. Because of his stupidity and false sense of security he died, his girlfriend died and a bear died. Herzog definitely played excepts from over hundreds of hours or more of film that portrayed Treadwell as an unbalanced man who lost his way and direction. He showed clips that would make even the most adamant lovers of animals and animal research question the validity of Treadwell. These clips may have been detrimental to the popular view of Treadwell, but I feel it is important to show his true character as well, to deter other enthusiasts from repeating his same mistakes. I think that Treadwell, like Charlie Russell did originally set out to do good, but in the mix of it all Treadwell lost his way and more importantly his mind. This film did not make me believe bears to be heartless and mindless as Herzog concluded on, but I do believe this documentary was a warning to respect Grizzlies and their wild habitat.
[Write Comment]
In Response to the film "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia"
By Danielle Terhune (05/10/10 17:33:25)
Related animal: Bear
I never like to see people working with wild animals directly, but I believe that the restrictions that Charlie Russell and his collaborator (wife?) placed on themselves when interacting and studying the bears were closer to a scientific research perspective and less of a personal enrichment. I think that if they had not come across the three bear cubs in need I would have been more opposed to their interaction. I am still on the fence as to whether I would promote further engagement with other people in this type of field of study. I am more approving of a “Planet Earth” type of study where the researchers and wild life enthusiasts camouflage themselves from the animals and limit time of observation as to not disturb their natural habitat. Russell’s argument was that the research was to help people understand that bears aren’t mindless monsters, but can be thoughtful and graceful and curious and not too dangerous to humans who respect boundaries. His goal was to also show the bears that they have no need to fear humans. I disagree with these goals. I believe that bears need to have a healthy respectful fear of humans and humans still need to have a healthy fear of bears. This will keep both safer. I think breaking down the boundaries of fear will lead to more loss of life on both ends then less.
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (05/10/10 17:33:25)
Related animal: Bear
I never like to see people working with wild animals directly, but I believe that the restrictions that Charlie Russell and his collaborator (wife?) placed on themselves when interacting and studying the bears were closer to a scientific research perspective and less of a personal enrichment. I think that if they had not come across the three bear cubs in need I would have been more opposed to their interaction. I am still on the fence as to whether I would promote further engagement with other people in this type of field of study. I am more approving of a “Planet Earth” type of study where the researchers and wild life enthusiasts camouflage themselves from the animals and limit time of observation as to not disturb their natural habitat. Russell’s argument was that the research was to help people understand that bears aren’t mindless monsters, but can be thoughtful and graceful and curious and not too dangerous to humans who respect boundaries. His goal was to also show the bears that they have no need to fear humans. I disagree with these goals. I believe that bears need to have a healthy respectful fear of humans and humans still need to have a healthy fear of bears. This will keep both safer. I think breaking down the boundaries of fear will lead to more loss of life on both ends then less.
[Write Comment]
In the Country of the Mind Reading Response
By Mona Luo (04/13/14 21:52:31)
Throughout the assigned reading this week there seemed to be a prevailing theme of careful observation and respect for one’s surroundings. As the author surveys his surroundings, what we might consider a bleak and boring landscape suddenly comes to life. If you gaze across open tundra in a sweeping glance, it certainly does seem sparse in comparison to a bustling city. But any place can be rich with information if one knows where to look. I believe the same approach can be taken when observing animals. If one takes the time to really get to know an animal, without projecting preconceptions upon its behavior, the process of familiarization and discovering is much more fulfilling (and sometimes informative) than reading about the animal in a book. When I asked a friend to go to the zoo with me he declined because he said he had just went last year. This took me by surprise because I find the zoo to be a place where I could go every day and not get bored. To think that one can understand the nature of an animal through a brief visit to its enclosure sounds preposterous to me. The reading criticizes Western science for this tendency to summarize and generalize. I read a book by a scientist who had been studying ants for something in the neighborhood of 15 years. She said that even as someone who had been carefully observing these insects for years, she too had the tendency to jump to conclusions. In her particular case it was regarding ants on her kitchen counter top. One’s first instinct is to believe they are searching for food. However, most of the time, this is not really the case. People tend to believe that what they observe will corroborate their preconceived notions, and I believe that is a dangerous mindset to be in. If one were to be an Arctic with such a philosophy, it might even put one’s life in peril. This notion of observation and respect seem to go hand and hand. To summarize a place or an animal in a single statement dismisses the nuances and sophistication that make them unique.
There was a passage about the nature of the language of the Eskimos. Their language is dynamic in its viewpoints, and space and time are not clearly separate entities. Language is shaped by the environment and culture of people who speak it. English interpretations of certain terms can only be rough and ungainly approximations of phenomenon only fully comprehensible to those that have spent time in the right place with the right people. This raises the question of whether our language is fit to understand potential nuances in animal communication. Translating between human cultures is hard enough, so it isn’t hard to imagine that between species there would be a lot lost in translation. In some ways the structure of the language seem somewhat reminiscent of how the land is pictured in the mind of the Eskimos. This melding of time in space can perhaps explain the exaggerated size of prime fishing locations or emotionally charged landmarks. As the amount of time spent in an area increases the amount of memory and prominence in the mind increases as well, expanding the perceived space. It would be interesting to see how animals mapped their world. Would our roads and highways shrink in their mind, overshadowed by the more practically useful bushes and shrubbery they hid in?
[Write Comment]
By Mona Luo (04/13/14 21:52:31)
Throughout the assigned reading this week there seemed to be a prevailing theme of careful observation and respect for one’s surroundings. As the author surveys his surroundings, what we might consider a bleak and boring landscape suddenly comes to life. If you gaze across open tundra in a sweeping glance, it certainly does seem sparse in comparison to a bustling city. But any place can be rich with information if one knows where to look. I believe the same approach can be taken when observing animals. If one takes the time to really get to know an animal, without projecting preconceptions upon its behavior, the process of familiarization and discovering is much more fulfilling (and sometimes informative) than reading about the animal in a book. When I asked a friend to go to the zoo with me he declined because he said he had just went last year. This took me by surprise because I find the zoo to be a place where I could go every day and not get bored. To think that one can understand the nature of an animal through a brief visit to its enclosure sounds preposterous to me. The reading criticizes Western science for this tendency to summarize and generalize. I read a book by a scientist who had been studying ants for something in the neighborhood of 15 years. She said that even as someone who had been carefully observing these insects for years, she too had the tendency to jump to conclusions. In her particular case it was regarding ants on her kitchen counter top. One’s first instinct is to believe they are searching for food. However, most of the time, this is not really the case. People tend to believe that what they observe will corroborate their preconceived notions, and I believe that is a dangerous mindset to be in. If one were to be an Arctic with such a philosophy, it might even put one’s life in peril. This notion of observation and respect seem to go hand and hand. To summarize a place or an animal in a single statement dismisses the nuances and sophistication that make them unique.
There was a passage about the nature of the language of the Eskimos. Their language is dynamic in its viewpoints, and space and time are not clearly separate entities. Language is shaped by the environment and culture of people who speak it. English interpretations of certain terms can only be rough and ungainly approximations of phenomenon only fully comprehensible to those that have spent time in the right place with the right people. This raises the question of whether our language is fit to understand potential nuances in animal communication. Translating between human cultures is hard enough, so it isn’t hard to imagine that between species there would be a lot lost in translation. In some ways the structure of the language seem somewhat reminiscent of how the land is pictured in the mind of the Eskimos. This melding of time in space can perhaps explain the exaggerated size of prime fishing locations or emotionally charged landmarks. As the amount of time spent in an area increases the amount of memory and prominence in the mind increases as well, expanding the perceived space. It would be interesting to see how animals mapped their world. Would our roads and highways shrink in their mind, overshadowed by the more practically useful bushes and shrubbery they hid in?
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Play Behavior
Insects Galore
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:22:40)
My first interactions mostly consisted of encounters with small bugs and insects. I was talking to a friend when he saw a spider crawl from out my pant leg and onto the floor. I didn't believe him, but there was a spider on the floor. I didn't feel anything in my pants, he, the spider, must have been still and using me for transportation. I sat with him on the floor and the spider sat with me too. I really enjoyed spending time with this spider.
My other encounter with an insect was with this bug at a park. I'm not sure what sort of bug this is, but I have provided a picture of it below. There was actually two. I ended up seeing this guys because I walked up to a plaque to read it. One of the bugs kept encircling the rim on the plaque which was embedded into a stone, and the other one would sometimes chase it, but then leave it to keep going round and round. It was pretty entertaining to watch this silly couple.
I don't know how much interaction these small animals want with humans. They seem to be frightened of us, but the spider wasn't frightened of me. That might have something to do with the fact that I never kill them when I find them indoors. I usually take them outside since I've found they don't really mind this. I'm really curious to know what sort of bugs the other two were. They look like roly polies but they have some color on them. Maybe I will go back and see if these bugs are still hanging out on that plaque.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:22:40)
My first interactions mostly consisted of encounters with small bugs and insects. I was talking to a friend when he saw a spider crawl from out my pant leg and onto the floor. I didn't believe him, but there was a spider on the floor. I didn't feel anything in my pants, he, the spider, must have been still and using me for transportation. I sat with him on the floor and the spider sat with me too. I really enjoyed spending time with this spider.
My other encounter with an insect was with this bug at a park. I'm not sure what sort of bug this is, but I have provided a picture of it below. There was actually two. I ended up seeing this guys because I walked up to a plaque to read it. One of the bugs kept encircling the rim on the plaque which was embedded into a stone, and the other one would sometimes chase it, but then leave it to keep going round and round. It was pretty entertaining to watch this silly couple.
I don't know how much interaction these small animals want with humans. They seem to be frightened of us, but the spider wasn't frightened of me. That might have something to do with the fact that I never kill them when I find them indoors. I usually take them outside since I've found they don't really mind this. I'm really curious to know what sort of bugs the other two were. They look like roly polies but they have some color on them. Maybe I will go back and see if these bugs are still hanging out on that plaque.
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inside a dog and a bee
By Luis Alberto Velazquez (05/14/14 16:23:31)
Related animal: Dog
Today I tried Barbara’s technique of getting into an animal’s body for a few minutes. This time it was my boss's dog Mulligan. He is a 7 year old teacup poodle living with two older people in their 80’s.
This experience was very stressing and a bit frustrating for me since Mulligan’s life mostly evolves of sleeping over a pillow next to his guardian inside the house. It was very hard to focus and be present at that moment not taking in consideration his usual life style. I felt tired and frustrated of staring at the tv playing fox news all the time, but of course that was me being able to understand what was in tv. I also started feeling hot considering his long fluffy hair and the hot weather. I decided to go outside and try again with a different animal or insect.
I tried with a bee out at the garden at the lemon tree, this experience was a very different feeling since I felt a sense of freedom, it was very interesting to see the pistols of flowers up close as the bee flew from flower to flower. The fragrances of flowers became more intense and the small shapes of leaves and flowers became more appealing and seemed bigger.
I really enjoyed having Barbara in our class. I feel like it has influenced me on reminding myself to be more present wherever I might be.
[Write Comment]
By Luis Alberto Velazquez (05/14/14 16:23:31)
Related animal: Dog
Today I tried Barbara’s technique of getting into an animal’s body for a few minutes. This time it was my boss's dog Mulligan. He is a 7 year old teacup poodle living with two older people in their 80’s.
This experience was very stressing and a bit frustrating for me since Mulligan’s life mostly evolves of sleeping over a pillow next to his guardian inside the house. It was very hard to focus and be present at that moment not taking in consideration his usual life style. I felt tired and frustrated of staring at the tv playing fox news all the time, but of course that was me being able to understand what was in tv. I also started feeling hot considering his long fluffy hair and the hot weather. I decided to go outside and try again with a different animal or insect.
I tried with a bee out at the garden at the lemon tree, this experience was a very different feeling since I felt a sense of freedom, it was very interesting to see the pistols of flowers up close as the bee flew from flower to flower. The fragrances of flowers became more intense and the small shapes of leaves and flowers became more appealing and seemed bigger.
I really enjoyed having Barbara in our class. I feel like it has influenced me on reminding myself to be more present wherever I might be.
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Interacting with my Dog
By Andrea Chase (04/18/10 20:38:33)
Related animal: Dog
After attending the workshop last Thursday with Barbara Janelle I choose to further work with my dog, Ziggy. I worked with him over the weekend in order to try to identify and relate to his favorite activities like: gopher hunting and running at the beach. By enjoying these activities with him all weekend I hoped to further our connection by offering up a weekend devoted to his likes.
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (04/18/10 20:38:33)
Related animal: Dog
After attending the workshop last Thursday with Barbara Janelle I choose to further work with my dog, Ziggy. I worked with him over the weekend in order to try to identify and relate to his favorite activities like: gopher hunting and running at the beach. By enjoying these activities with him all weekend I hoped to further our connection by offering up a weekend devoted to his likes.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Human Animal Perception and Cognition
Interacting with my dog
By Sara Putman (04/20/10 16:33:09)
Related animal: Australian Shepherd
After Barbara Janelle's exercises on Thursday, I felt more calm and relaxed. I understood what she was saying about becoming more in-tuned with nature and connecting with animals, yet I hadn't fully realized how to communicate with them at the time. However, while I was up north with my dog Rissa, I wanted to make myself more aware of her and her feelings, so I put myself in her position.
Instead of yelling for her to "come" when she was running too far ahead, I let her be free of my will and assertions, while still attempting to connect with her mentally. She eventually came back to me after she was finished running along the beach with the other dogs. I could tell that Rissa wanted to run free, yet had still understood that I wanted her to eventually return. By becoming more aware of what she wanted, I felt more at ease and I could tell that Rissa appreciated it as well. In the end, I feel closer to my dog and can appreciate the things that she wants, as well as making it easier to let her know what I want.
On a side note, if I was looking at her a certain way (like I wanted her to come to me), she would understand and come without my having to say anything, as if we were communicating on a telepathic level.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Putman (04/20/10 16:33:09)
Related animal: Australian Shepherd
After Barbara Janelle's exercises on Thursday, I felt more calm and relaxed. I understood what she was saying about becoming more in-tuned with nature and connecting with animals, yet I hadn't fully realized how to communicate with them at the time. However, while I was up north with my dog Rissa, I wanted to make myself more aware of her and her feelings, so I put myself in her position.
Instead of yelling for her to "come" when she was running too far ahead, I let her be free of my will and assertions, while still attempting to connect with her mentally. She eventually came back to me after she was finished running along the beach with the other dogs. I could tell that Rissa wanted to run free, yet had still understood that I wanted her to eventually return. By becoming more aware of what she wanted, I felt more at ease and I could tell that Rissa appreciated it as well. In the end, I feel closer to my dog and can appreciate the things that she wants, as well as making it easier to let her know what I want.
On a side note, if I was looking at her a certain way (like I wanted her to come to me), she would understand and come without my having to say anything, as if we were communicating on a telepathic level.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Interest in Interspecies Collaborations
By Hector Medina (04/08/13 01:44:16)
Related animal: Dog
I am interested in the Interspecies Collaborate class because it involves two of some of my favorite things; art and animals. I have taken some art classes here at UCSB and fell deeply in love with doing art. I love how I lose myself in my work and the amazing feeling I get when people adore my pieces. I am so glad that I have found something I have a passion for it and that I am getting a degree for it. Animals have always been part of my life and now this class might enable me to include animals in my art. One special animal that will always have a place in my heart is, Pirate, my American Pitbull Terrier mix dog. We named him that because he had a large brown spot on one of his eye as if he had a patch like a pirate. He was a gift when I was really small and we grew up together until he was 13 years. He was a very smart and fun dog. He was very kind and sweet, great at warning and protection, and was always a great goal keeper. It was fun growing up with a buddy that was always there when I needed him. Luckily he was able to have puppies before he left us. Out of his litter we kept Duke, the leader of the pack. He was a very smart dog, very curious, always getting into trouble. We decided to find him a partner, some one that would keep him distracted from his mischievous adventures. She was named Yeska because that’s how my brother could pronounce “Jessica.” We had those two goofballs for a couple years until Duke unfortunately got into an accident and had to be put down. Luckily we still have Yeska and she is so adorable. I love how I come home sometimes from college and she is always there waiting for me at the door. Just thinking of how happy she gets when she sees me puts a smile on my face. She begins by barking and making a fuss, then runs to me and smells me. She then jumps up and begins to cry. I have to pet her for a couple minutes until she is suffice and calms down. If I am able to include them or the feelings they make me feel into my art that would be fantastic. I hope the class can help me incorporate these animals and other animals I will encounter in the future.
[Write Comment]
By Hector Medina (04/08/13 01:44:16)
Related animal: Dog
I am interested in the Interspecies Collaborate class because it involves two of some of my favorite things; art and animals. I have taken some art classes here at UCSB and fell deeply in love with doing art. I love how I lose myself in my work and the amazing feeling I get when people adore my pieces. I am so glad that I have found something I have a passion for it and that I am getting a degree for it. Animals have always been part of my life and now this class might enable me to include animals in my art. One special animal that will always have a place in my heart is, Pirate, my American Pitbull Terrier mix dog. We named him that because he had a large brown spot on one of his eye as if he had a patch like a pirate. He was a gift when I was really small and we grew up together until he was 13 years. He was a very smart and fun dog. He was very kind and sweet, great at warning and protection, and was always a great goal keeper. It was fun growing up with a buddy that was always there when I needed him. Luckily he was able to have puppies before he left us. Out of his litter we kept Duke, the leader of the pack. He was a very smart dog, very curious, always getting into trouble. We decided to find him a partner, some one that would keep him distracted from his mischievous adventures. She was named Yeska because that’s how my brother could pronounce “Jessica.” We had those two goofballs for a couple years until Duke unfortunately got into an accident and had to be put down. Luckily we still have Yeska and she is so adorable. I love how I come home sometimes from college and she is always there waiting for me at the door. Just thinking of how happy she gets when she sees me puts a smile on my face. She begins by barking and making a fuss, then runs to me and smells me. She then jumps up and begins to cry. I have to pet her for a couple minutes until she is suffice and calms down. If I am able to include them or the feelings they make me feel into my art that would be fantastic. I hope the class can help me incorporate these animals and other animals I will encounter in the future.
[Write Comment]
Interrogating Methods Event and its Effect on my Views of Art and Science
By Rachel Fleming (04/19/14 18:27:39)
After attending the last few hours of the Interrogating methodologies event, I’m restructuring the way I view art and science in relation to one another. The discussions held either drastically refigured, or caused the creation of a new scaffold for, my ideas about the artistic and scientific process. I am going to summarize my thoughts and questions concerning what I saw at the event. Perhaps my interpretation of the discussion was not correct, but the following is what I gathered.
I’m still figuring out what I think about the artistic process vs. the scientific process. Does the artistic process focus on the aesthetics of the product, as was suggested at one point? Or, does it involve the process, like science?
It seems that, like Jill Scott said, artists fall on a spectrum ranging from interpretive art to illustrative art. For illustrative art it makes sense that the product is usually the main focus. But isn't interpretive art or performing art about the process (and is the process referring to the process of setting up the performance, or the performance itself?)? Even with illustrative art, it seems as though sometimes artists create images for the experience and not for the product. This is what I do sometimes. I paint or draw as a way to relieve stress. Anyway, isn't science also about the product, especially in industry where there are deadlines for products?
It seems to me as though there is no way to categorize art and science based on process vs. product. They both concern each aspect.
Overall, I think that more work needs to be done to fully explain each of the two methodologies individually. What are the goals? What steps are taken? What obstacles does each method encounter? Are there even any notable differences? Perhaps art and science are more similar than we think. Maybe they use the same process and have similar goals. Then again, perhaps there are levels on which they are incompatible, despite the fact that this may make us feel uncomfortable or discouraged. Perhaps they are completely separate but can work together toward common goals, or even toward differing goals.
This has affected my view of arts in relation to science since it has raised many new questions in my mind and has me considering new possibilities and/or limitations for their combination. I'm unsure of how to connect the two at the moment seeing as they both have more complicated goals and methods than I thought.
What will I find out by combining art and life this quarter?
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (04/26/14 15:00:50):
I don't believe that art is about the aesthetics of a product (even though that is often a component of art), but rather of the aesthetics of methods and process. However, I am not sure if you were there for the panel I introduced, but my point in the introduction was that art should not be defined in relation to aesthetics but rather as "an endeavor in which a set of methods are concurrently and continuously being developed, employed and investigated"
By Rachel Fleming (04/19/14 18:27:39)
After attending the last few hours of the Interrogating methodologies event, I’m restructuring the way I view art and science in relation to one another. The discussions held either drastically refigured, or caused the creation of a new scaffold for, my ideas about the artistic and scientific process. I am going to summarize my thoughts and questions concerning what I saw at the event. Perhaps my interpretation of the discussion was not correct, but the following is what I gathered.
I’m still figuring out what I think about the artistic process vs. the scientific process. Does the artistic process focus on the aesthetics of the product, as was suggested at one point? Or, does it involve the process, like science?
It seems that, like Jill Scott said, artists fall on a spectrum ranging from interpretive art to illustrative art. For illustrative art it makes sense that the product is usually the main focus. But isn't interpretive art or performing art about the process (and is the process referring to the process of setting up the performance, or the performance itself?)? Even with illustrative art, it seems as though sometimes artists create images for the experience and not for the product. This is what I do sometimes. I paint or draw as a way to relieve stress. Anyway, isn't science also about the product, especially in industry where there are deadlines for products?
It seems to me as though there is no way to categorize art and science based on process vs. product. They both concern each aspect.
Overall, I think that more work needs to be done to fully explain each of the two methodologies individually. What are the goals? What steps are taken? What obstacles does each method encounter? Are there even any notable differences? Perhaps art and science are more similar than we think. Maybe they use the same process and have similar goals. Then again, perhaps there are levels on which they are incompatible, despite the fact that this may make us feel uncomfortable or discouraged. Perhaps they are completely separate but can work together toward common goals, or even toward differing goals.
This has affected my view of arts in relation to science since it has raised many new questions in my mind and has me considering new possibilities and/or limitations for their combination. I'm unsure of how to connect the two at the moment seeing as they both have more complicated goals and methods than I thought.
What will I find out by combining art and life this quarter?
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (04/26/14 15:00:50):
I don't believe that art is about the aesthetics of a product (even though that is often a component of art), but rather of the aesthetics of methods and process. However, I am not sure if you were there for the panel I introduced, but my point in the introduction was that art should not be defined in relation to aesthetics but rather as "an endeavor in which a set of methods are concurrently and continuously being developed, employed and investigated"
Story: Interspecies Communication
Interspecies Collab
By Sara Selmic (04/18/13 18:38:50)
Related animals: Human, Rabbit
Throughout my life I have always loved and respected animals. I learned of the injustice thrust upon non-human animals at a young age and became a vegetarian because of this. As I learned more and more about what humans were doing to non-human animals I decided to become vegan and no longer support any harm to these creatures. I have never been more happy or certain of a decision in my life. I am proud of this aspect of myself because I know I am trying my hardest to equalize the gap that has been created between humans and non-human animals.
In regards to communicating with non-human animals I am definitely aware of the different ways in which animals attempt to speak with us. These creatures have strong energies which they omit and through this life force they begin communication. We are so used to speaking with words, but animals connect on a deeper level that does not call for language. It is sort of like a feeling but not exactly, it's difficult for me to explain.
Ever since I was young I felt a deep bond with animals and assumed they spoke to us and that we too could speak with them. I wasn't sure how to go about this or if I was in fact speaking with them, but I definitely tried and probably assumed a lot. I look forward to further engaging with non-human animals and hopefully bridging the gaps that humans have created.
The closest I have ever been to a non-human animal was with my pet rabbit. I was in about 5th grade when I got him as a baby. I loved him dearly, but sadly he died tragically. I was very connected to him and we definitely had a deep bond. He greeted me like no one else and I was the only one to ever get licked by his tiny tongue. He lived a good life with our other rabbits which we let roam free in our backyard. I actually haven't had a pet since. Although I like having a companion around whom I can take care of, I also find it really weird to keep animals with you instead of letting them live free lives.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Selmic (04/18/13 18:38:50)
Related animals: Human, Rabbit
Throughout my life I have always loved and respected animals. I learned of the injustice thrust upon non-human animals at a young age and became a vegetarian because of this. As I learned more and more about what humans were doing to non-human animals I decided to become vegan and no longer support any harm to these creatures. I have never been more happy or certain of a decision in my life. I am proud of this aspect of myself because I know I am trying my hardest to equalize the gap that has been created between humans and non-human animals.
In regards to communicating with non-human animals I am definitely aware of the different ways in which animals attempt to speak with us. These creatures have strong energies which they omit and through this life force they begin communication. We are so used to speaking with words, but animals connect on a deeper level that does not call for language. It is sort of like a feeling but not exactly, it's difficult for me to explain.
Ever since I was young I felt a deep bond with animals and assumed they spoke to us and that we too could speak with them. I wasn't sure how to go about this or if I was in fact speaking with them, but I definitely tried and probably assumed a lot. I look forward to further engaging with non-human animals and hopefully bridging the gaps that humans have created.
The closest I have ever been to a non-human animal was with my pet rabbit. I was in about 5th grade when I got him as a baby. I loved him dearly, but sadly he died tragically. I was very connected to him and we definitely had a deep bond. He greeted me like no one else and I was the only one to ever get licked by his tiny tongue. He lived a good life with our other rabbits which we let roam free in our backyard. I actually haven't had a pet since. Although I like having a companion around whom I can take care of, I also find it really weird to keep animals with you instead of letting them live free lives.
[Write Comment]
How To: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
INTERSPECIES COLLABORATION GUIDE
By Natasha Lloyd Tyler Beckert (05/09/06 13:33:27)
In order to attempt a collaboration with a member of another species, there are several questions which must first be answered:
- What species do you plan on collaborating with?
Chosing an appropriate species is essential to conducting your collaboration. What resources you have available, as well as your own capabilities, must be taken into account.
- What form of art (if any) will you be attempting to create?
Decide what medium you plan to use (paint, music, digital, etc.) during your collaboration.
- Why are you attempting to communicate with this particular species?
Does this species possess any capabilities that would lend themselves to a particular method of collaboration? Any prior knowledge or experience with this species could be helpful.
- What method of communication will you be using to collaborate with this animal?
Different species interact and communicate in a variety of ways. Have you selected a method of collaboration this is realistically feasible?
- What supplies/permissions/etc. will you need to begin?
Determine if you will require any specialized equipment or permits prior to collaborating with another species. Access to exotic or endangered animals is often restricted.
Once you have these primary questions answered, you are ready to begin your collaboration. When starting work with another species, keep these 5 principles in mind:
- Patience is essential. The obvious communication barrier between yourself and another species will require time and effort to overcome.
- Respect for the animal and its habitat are of primary importance. In order to conduct an ethical collaboration, nature and the animal itself must not be harmed or disturbed in any way.
- Organized methods of collaboration and data collection will be crucial to a successful project. Since you are exploring a new and unpredictable field, any records you retain during collaboration could prove useful.
- Research your subject prior to collaboration. Past observations or scientific studies may yield new possibilities for your collaboration. If others have collaborated with this animal in the past, what methods have proved successful?
- Equal contribution between yourself and the other species will provide for the most interesting collaboration. Third party observation of another species could hardly be considered a collaboration, whereas a conscious interaction will open a whole new range of possibilities.
During our own collaborative efforts, we have encountered many difficulties and obstacles. Based on our experience, here are some helpful hints to remember during the collaboration process. Included are real-life accounts of problems that were encountered during an interspecies collaboration.
- Flexibility of your ideas, process, and timeframe are important when collaborating with others. Be prepared for cancellations, compromises, possible disagreements, etc..
o “When attempting to collaborate on a photography project with a chimpanzee, I soon learned that flexibility would be the most important virtue. The owner has given me three dates to arrive at the training facility and all three have been cancelled 1 day prior to the event. Keeping an open schedule and allowing for these set backs has prevented me from having to cancel the collaboration.”
- Communicating with others, even those who are not involved in a similar project, can yield new and interesting ideas. Talking to friends and family about what you are working on can provide new insight.
o “Before I opened my project up for conversation I only had a basic outline of what I wished to accomplish with the chimps. After hearing several ideas and interpretations of my collaboration, I arrived at new and improved ideas and possible means of communication with the chimps.”
- Have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. Interspecies collaboration is often unpredictable, and situations may arise where a planned course of action may prove impossible or insufficient. A new location, method of interaction, or even a new species may be necessary in order to successfully collaborate.
o “As previously mentioned, the dates for the chimpanzee collaboration have been a problem, so I developed a backup plan. I am now working on a different project using dogs which I have ready access to. The chimp project is “on hold” while I work on a separate collaboration. This backup plan is key in allowing me to continue in collaboration while waiting for my original project to actually occur.”
[Write Comment]
By Natasha Lloyd Tyler Beckert (05/09/06 13:33:27)
In order to attempt a collaboration with a member of another species, there are several questions which must first be answered:
- What species do you plan on collaborating with?
Chosing an appropriate species is essential to conducting your collaboration. What resources you have available, as well as your own capabilities, must be taken into account.
- What form of art (if any) will you be attempting to create?
Decide what medium you plan to use (paint, music, digital, etc.) during your collaboration.
- Why are you attempting to communicate with this particular species?
Does this species possess any capabilities that would lend themselves to a particular method of collaboration? Any prior knowledge or experience with this species could be helpful.
- What method of communication will you be using to collaborate with this animal?
Different species interact and communicate in a variety of ways. Have you selected a method of collaboration this is realistically feasible?
- What supplies/permissions/etc. will you need to begin?
Determine if you will require any specialized equipment or permits prior to collaborating with another species. Access to exotic or endangered animals is often restricted.
Once you have these primary questions answered, you are ready to begin your collaboration. When starting work with another species, keep these 5 principles in mind:
- Patience is essential. The obvious communication barrier between yourself and another species will require time and effort to overcome.
- Respect for the animal and its habitat are of primary importance. In order to conduct an ethical collaboration, nature and the animal itself must not be harmed or disturbed in any way.
- Organized methods of collaboration and data collection will be crucial to a successful project. Since you are exploring a new and unpredictable field, any records you retain during collaboration could prove useful.
- Research your subject prior to collaboration. Past observations or scientific studies may yield new possibilities for your collaboration. If others have collaborated with this animal in the past, what methods have proved successful?
- Equal contribution between yourself and the other species will provide for the most interesting collaboration. Third party observation of another species could hardly be considered a collaboration, whereas a conscious interaction will open a whole new range of possibilities.
During our own collaborative efforts, we have encountered many difficulties and obstacles. Based on our experience, here are some helpful hints to remember during the collaboration process. Included are real-life accounts of problems that were encountered during an interspecies collaboration.
- Flexibility of your ideas, process, and timeframe are important when collaborating with others. Be prepared for cancellations, compromises, possible disagreements, etc..
o “When attempting to collaborate on a photography project with a chimpanzee, I soon learned that flexibility would be the most important virtue. The owner has given me three dates to arrive at the training facility and all three have been cancelled 1 day prior to the event. Keeping an open schedule and allowing for these set backs has prevented me from having to cancel the collaboration.”
- Communicating with others, even those who are not involved in a similar project, can yield new and interesting ideas. Talking to friends and family about what you are working on can provide new insight.
o “Before I opened my project up for conversation I only had a basic outline of what I wished to accomplish with the chimps. After hearing several ideas and interpretations of my collaboration, I arrived at new and improved ideas and possible means of communication with the chimps.”
- Have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. Interspecies collaboration is often unpredictable, and situations may arise where a planned course of action may prove impossible or insufficient. A new location, method of interaction, or even a new species may be necessary in order to successfully collaborate.
o “As previously mentioned, the dates for the chimpanzee collaboration have been a problem, so I developed a backup plan. I am now working on a different project using dogs which I have ready access to. The chimp project is “on hold” while I work on a separate collaboration. This backup plan is key in allowing me to continue in collaboration while waiting for my original project to actually occur.”
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Art Made for Non-Human Animals
Interspecies Collaboration Show
By Andrea Chase (06/07/10 00:13:21)
Related animals: Dog, Hermit Crab
Well I think its safe to say that our show was a complete success. I was so impressed by the enthusiasm and creativity of my peers! Thanks to all who made it happen. I particularly enjoyed Jeff's painting in the Dolphin Room; I thought it came together to be quite an aesthetically interesting piece. I also appreciated the live track-sand-painting from Hermes , Matt's hermit-crab. Jordan's interactive fish bowl proved to be quite fun and intriguing as well, I'm glad one of us forced the rest of the class into another animal's shoes. Afterall, that is one of the main purposes of this class- to put ourselves in another species' shoes and gain a universalistic attitude toward valuing another's life both within and outside our species.
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (06/07/10 00:13:21)
Related animals: Dog, Hermit Crab
Well I think its safe to say that our show was a complete success. I was so impressed by the enthusiasm and creativity of my peers! Thanks to all who made it happen. I particularly enjoyed Jeff's painting in the Dolphin Room; I thought it came together to be quite an aesthetically interesting piece. I also appreciated the live track-sand-painting from Hermes , Matt's hermit-crab. Jordan's interactive fish bowl proved to be quite fun and intriguing as well, I'm glad one of us forced the rest of the class into another animal's shoes. Afterall, that is one of the main purposes of this class- to put ourselves in another species' shoes and gain a universalistic attitude toward valuing another's life both within and outside our species.
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Reflection: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Interspecies Collaboration: A Reflection
By Erik Shalat (05/28/13 01:32:53)
I am currently working on both my final project and a poster for our classes upcoming exhibition and reflecting on how this class has changed my outlook on animals, if at all. I’m thinking about it as I am writing this you are about to witness an idea literally formed before your very eyes.
When I first entered the class my experience with animals had been relegated almost entirely to my dog and bird at home. Those are fairly standard animals being common house pets. I didn’t expect to be do anything with animals that didn’t happen at a distance, probably with a sketch pad. Oddly enough I have done almost no drawing for Interspecies Collaboration, though that could be because i’m also drawing for Animal Drawing class and i’m tired of it.
Seeing animals like horses and cows and pigs has always seemed like an intangible concept to me, like those animals only exist on television. Going up close to those animals changed something in me. I’ve been much more comfortable in animals of all kinds, I think. I am definitely more attentive to them. I listen to bird songs that used to be background noise. I have gone down to the park near my house to feed and pet horses with my girlfriend. I would have ignored those horses a few months ago, they have always just been “there”, in that place out of sight and mind.
I think the pigs in particular were just so radically different from what I expected that it really changed my perception. It was easy to lump animal traits together into similar ways, like all four-legged mammals just had generic “fur” and just wanted food. But even these pigs seemed to enjoy attention from people, and they had stiff bristles instead of fur.
If anything, i’ve started anthropomorphizing animals more than I did before despite the ways we’ve learned that “scientists” would prefer us not to. I found it interesting that scientists are lumped in together in much the same way animals tend to be lumped in together. “Horses”, “pigs”, “lions”; these are all categorized animals that people tend not to think of as individual creatures with autonomy.
A lot of the “art” i’ve tried working on didn’t go very far, the concept of making art with an animal is just so open ended that it was hard to ever come up with a decent project that wasn’t taken directly from someone we learned about. I ended up going with what was right in front of my nose the entire time, and compiling footage of my relationship with my bird. I guess in a way he is almost more of a co-star in my movie than just the subject. Something i’ve taken from this class is to try to be more inclusive to animals, in subtle ways so as to not take advantage of them. Obviously my bird cannot understand what a video is but thinking of him as something I have to respect rather than something I can take advantage of is just another facet of my interactions with animals now.
[Write Comment]
By Erik Shalat (05/28/13 01:32:53)
I am currently working on both my final project and a poster for our classes upcoming exhibition and reflecting on how this class has changed my outlook on animals, if at all. I’m thinking about it as I am writing this you are about to witness an idea literally formed before your very eyes.
When I first entered the class my experience with animals had been relegated almost entirely to my dog and bird at home. Those are fairly standard animals being common house pets. I didn’t expect to be do anything with animals that didn’t happen at a distance, probably with a sketch pad. Oddly enough I have done almost no drawing for Interspecies Collaboration, though that could be because i’m also drawing for Animal Drawing class and i’m tired of it.
Seeing animals like horses and cows and pigs has always seemed like an intangible concept to me, like those animals only exist on television. Going up close to those animals changed something in me. I’ve been much more comfortable in animals of all kinds, I think. I am definitely more attentive to them. I listen to bird songs that used to be background noise. I have gone down to the park near my house to feed and pet horses with my girlfriend. I would have ignored those horses a few months ago, they have always just been “there”, in that place out of sight and mind.
I think the pigs in particular were just so radically different from what I expected that it really changed my perception. It was easy to lump animal traits together into similar ways, like all four-legged mammals just had generic “fur” and just wanted food. But even these pigs seemed to enjoy attention from people, and they had stiff bristles instead of fur.
If anything, i’ve started anthropomorphizing animals more than I did before despite the ways we’ve learned that “scientists” would prefer us not to. I found it interesting that scientists are lumped in together in much the same way animals tend to be lumped in together. “Horses”, “pigs”, “lions”; these are all categorized animals that people tend not to think of as individual creatures with autonomy.
A lot of the “art” i’ve tried working on didn’t go very far, the concept of making art with an animal is just so open ended that it was hard to ever come up with a decent project that wasn’t taken directly from someone we learned about. I ended up going with what was right in front of my nose the entire time, and compiling footage of my relationship with my bird. I guess in a way he is almost more of a co-star in my movie than just the subject. Something i’ve taken from this class is to try to be more inclusive to animals, in subtle ways so as to not take advantage of them. Obviously my bird cannot understand what a video is but thinking of him as something I have to respect rather than something I can take advantage of is just another facet of my interactions with animals now.
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Interspecies Exhibition 6/6
By Brianna Acuesta (06/08/14 22:03:55)
Related animals: Cat, Dog, Goat
Overall, I thought the show looked really great and everyone seemed to be having a good time when I arrived. Mango and I only were able to be there for a short time but his reaction to the other dogs turned out to be surprisingly better than when I brought him to class, and I absolutely loved how adorable he looked paired with your daughter. Though I wish I had been able to execute the project I originally started, which was the project with the flower pots, Mango, and the octopus, the timing of everything didn't work out and I'm happy with the pictures I chose for the show. The ones that I didn't get to display, also because of poor timing, are displayed below, as well as some outtakes I didn't originally choose for the show but that I think show a little bit more of the closeness I felt with some of the animals. I truly enjoyed this class and the way it allowed me to redefine the way I incorporate animals into my art, as well as showed me a new way to become close with them. One of the critiques that really helped me see the way in which we are working with animals was when you told someone that the pictures they had taken of sea lions from afar was still objectifying them rather than collaborating with them, which is a great distinction. Thank you so much for everything, I hope I'll be seeing you in a future class!!!
[Write Comment]
By Brianna Acuesta (06/08/14 22:03:55)
Related animals: Cat, Dog, Goat
Overall, I thought the show looked really great and everyone seemed to be having a good time when I arrived. Mango and I only were able to be there for a short time but his reaction to the other dogs turned out to be surprisingly better than when I brought him to class, and I absolutely loved how adorable he looked paired with your daughter. Though I wish I had been able to execute the project I originally started, which was the project with the flower pots, Mango, and the octopus, the timing of everything didn't work out and I'm happy with the pictures I chose for the show. The ones that I didn't get to display, also because of poor timing, are displayed below, as well as some outtakes I didn't originally choose for the show but that I think show a little bit more of the closeness I felt with some of the animals. I truly enjoyed this class and the way it allowed me to redefine the way I incorporate animals into my art, as well as showed me a new way to become close with them. One of the critiques that really helped me see the way in which we are working with animals was when you told someone that the pictures they had taken of sea lions from afar was still objectifying them rather than collaborating with them, which is a great distinction. Thank you so much for everything, I hope I'll be seeing you in a future class!!!
Me holding a 10-day old baby goat and falling in love | 
This is Mango when he's being adorable at home, which is all of the time. |
Curious Mango | 
Coconut the cat |
Coconut the cat | 
Coconut the cat |
Coconut the cat | 
Coconut the cat |
Interspecies interaction with Santa Barbara wildlife
By Laura Santizo (05/21/13 14:34:21)
Interspecies interaction with Santa Barbara wildlife
By Laura Santizo (04/22/13 01:10:53)
Related animal: Killdeer
Being that Santa Barbara has such a rich wildlife I wanted to try and communicate with a non-domestic animal. I also wanted to do this at night because I rarely get to interact with animals during this time. I decide to take a walk out to one of the many restoration sites on the UCSB campus. While walking through the area I came across a bird that kept trying to get my attention. I found it odd that bird was awake this late. What was even more interesting was that this bird was actively trying to get my attention. Every time I took a couple steps forward it would fly out in front of me and let out a loud call. The call was high-pitched and sounded like almost like shriek. It felt as though the bird was trying to warn me and yet wanted me to follow it. This happened 2 to 3 times and then as I walked further away, the bird disappeared.
I was trying to be as relaxed and aware of myself as possible so as communicate that I didn't mean any harm. Even still I had a sense that I disturbed the bird and that it didn't appreciate visitors. It's gesture was powerful and its energy came off as defensive.
I asked one of my friends who is familiar with that area if he knew what type of bird it could have been. After telling him my story he told me it was type of plover called a killdeer. This interaction I experienced was the birds way of luring predator away from its nests. The killdeer is apparently known for this distraction-display, it "involves the bird walking away from its nesting area holding its wing in a position that simulates an injury and then flapping around on the ground emitting a distress call. The predators then think they have easy prey and are attracted to this seemingly injured bird and away from the nest. If the parent sees that a potential predator is not following them, they will move closer and get louder until they get the attention of the predator. This is repeated until the predator is far from the nest, and the killdeer suddenly "heals" and flies away."
Looking back I can't help but appreciate how sophisticated and ingenious this animal's response was. It makes me realize just how sensitive animals can be to our presence and how we must really work to understand them. In addition, how important it is to restore natural environments so that we interact with animals in their true state of being.
[Write Comment]
Comment by selmic (06/08/13 23:26:15):
This is such a cool story. Those birds are so intelligent, as are all animals. I'll never understand why people think they are so much smarter.
By Laura Santizo (05/21/13 14:34:21)
Interspecies interaction with Santa Barbara wildlife
By Laura Santizo (04/22/13 01:10:53)
Related animal: Killdeer
Being that Santa Barbara has such a rich wildlife I wanted to try and communicate with a non-domestic animal. I also wanted to do this at night because I rarely get to interact with animals during this time. I decide to take a walk out to one of the many restoration sites on the UCSB campus. While walking through the area I came across a bird that kept trying to get my attention. I found it odd that bird was awake this late. What was even more interesting was that this bird was actively trying to get my attention. Every time I took a couple steps forward it would fly out in front of me and let out a loud call. The call was high-pitched and sounded like almost like shriek. It felt as though the bird was trying to warn me and yet wanted me to follow it. This happened 2 to 3 times and then as I walked further away, the bird disappeared.
I was trying to be as relaxed and aware of myself as possible so as communicate that I didn't mean any harm. Even still I had a sense that I disturbed the bird and that it didn't appreciate visitors. It's gesture was powerful and its energy came off as defensive.
I asked one of my friends who is familiar with that area if he knew what type of bird it could have been. After telling him my story he told me it was type of plover called a killdeer. This interaction I experienced was the birds way of luring predator away from its nests. The killdeer is apparently known for this distraction-display, it "involves the bird walking away from its nesting area holding its wing in a position that simulates an injury and then flapping around on the ground emitting a distress call. The predators then think they have easy prey and are attracted to this seemingly injured bird and away from the nest. If the parent sees that a potential predator is not following them, they will move closer and get louder until they get the attention of the predator. This is repeated until the predator is far from the nest, and the killdeer suddenly "heals" and flies away."
Looking back I can't help but appreciate how sophisticated and ingenious this animal's response was. It makes me realize just how sensitive animals can be to our presence and how we must really work to understand them. In addition, how important it is to restore natural environments so that we interact with animals in their true state of being.
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Comment by selmic (06/08/13 23:26:15):
This is such a cool story. Those birds are so intelligent, as are all animals. I'll never understand why people think they are so much smarter.
Intro to Interspecies Collaboration
By Tessa Tapscott (04/07/13 23:37:03)
Related animal: Horse
Considering that my old pony, Thistle, dumped me on my butt on a weekly basis, it is truly amazing that I have only fallen off my current horse, Reese, twice in the past 8 and a half years. Same day, same jump. We had just started our partnership and we were having our first cross-country lesson together, during which it became apparent that Reese had never done cross-country before. Thus faced with a massive expanse of land peppered with large, foreboding wooden obstacles, he was understandably overwhelmed. While he hopped over logs and cautiously trotted through the water, the "coffin" jump threw him for a loop. A coffin jump is a kind of ditch jump in which a rectangular section is sunk into the ground, similar to the way an open grave would look. While one should jump this exactly the same as any normal raised jump, the optical effect of the sunken ground can be extremely frightening to horses, this was the case with Reese. While the seasoned horse in the group hopped right over the ditch, Reese repeatedly skidded to a stop each time we approached the fence. We finally had to get the other horse to lead us to it, following close behind, hoping that Reese might follow him right over it. We picked up speed and I felt like we were really going to jump it. I got out of the saddle in anticipation of flight. I did fly, right over Reese's ears and into the ditch. He stood by patiently staring down at me, as if to ask, "What are you doing there?" Bruised and bloody I climbed back on and approached the the ditch, again. I think after seeing me inside the ditch helped to show him that nothing would jump out of it and eat him as he flew over it because finally with a great leap Reese jumped the ditch. And to his joy and surprise, nothing tried to jump out of it and eat him, so with that he let out a great big buck of joy landing me flat on my back for the second time that day. He trotted a few more steps then looked back at me, "Again?" Since then we have faced many obstacles together and I have learned to show him what is safe and he has taught me what scares him and why. One might say that I became a better rider, so that is why I stopped falling off, but I think it is because Reese goes out of his way to keep me safe. I can only to provide the same protection for him.
[Write Comment]
By Tessa Tapscott (04/07/13 23:37:03)
Related animal: Horse
Considering that my old pony, Thistle, dumped me on my butt on a weekly basis, it is truly amazing that I have only fallen off my current horse, Reese, twice in the past 8 and a half years. Same day, same jump. We had just started our partnership and we were having our first cross-country lesson together, during which it became apparent that Reese had never done cross-country before. Thus faced with a massive expanse of land peppered with large, foreboding wooden obstacles, he was understandably overwhelmed. While he hopped over logs and cautiously trotted through the water, the "coffin" jump threw him for a loop. A coffin jump is a kind of ditch jump in which a rectangular section is sunk into the ground, similar to the way an open grave would look. While one should jump this exactly the same as any normal raised jump, the optical effect of the sunken ground can be extremely frightening to horses, this was the case with Reese. While the seasoned horse in the group hopped right over the ditch, Reese repeatedly skidded to a stop each time we approached the fence. We finally had to get the other horse to lead us to it, following close behind, hoping that Reese might follow him right over it. We picked up speed and I felt like we were really going to jump it. I got out of the saddle in anticipation of flight. I did fly, right over Reese's ears and into the ditch. He stood by patiently staring down at me, as if to ask, "What are you doing there?" Bruised and bloody I climbed back on and approached the the ditch, again. I think after seeing me inside the ditch helped to show him that nothing would jump out of it and eat him as he flew over it because finally with a great leap Reese jumped the ditch. And to his joy and surprise, nothing tried to jump out of it and eat him, so with that he let out a great big buck of joy landing me flat on my back for the second time that day. He trotted a few more steps then looked back at me, "Again?" Since then we have faced many obstacles together and I have learned to show him what is safe and he has taught me what scares him and why. One might say that I became a better rider, so that is why I stopped falling off, but I think it is because Reese goes out of his way to keep me safe. I can only to provide the same protection for him.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Introduction
By Megan Mueller (04/14/14 09:46:09)
Related animal: Cat
I lost my cat in Flagstaff Arizona for three days. My boyfriend, my cat and I were making our way across the country from Washington DC to Goleta CA, where I would be starting graduate school at UCSB. We began our trip in Pittsburgh and Detroit to see family and then made our way across the mid west through Wisconsin, South Dakota, Colorado, Utah, on our way to the Grand Canyon. By the time we arrived in Flagstaff, we had been traveling for about three weeks, and I was a confident traveler. Trout, our cat, also seemed to be adjusting to the trip quite nicely. We allowed her to roam freely in the car and she enjoyed napping under the back seat. We arrived in the Flagstaff campsite around midnight and it was quite dark. I opened the doors of our van, put on a sweatshirt, closed the doors to our van and then walked to the common bathroom. When I came back to the car, I opened the doors, expecting to see the cat and did not. We opened the back doors, looked under everything, and did not see her. At this point my boyfriend and I are hopeful that she just got out of the car when we went to the bathroom but panic is escalating in our brain. We are using the flashlights on our cell phone to scan the area, rewalking the path the bathroom, opening cans of food (a sound that usually send her running from any room in the house). We are making all the kissy cat noises you can think of, calling her name. But its midnight in a packed campsite so we are fighting that politeness in your brain that tells you not to yell when people are sleeping. Do you? Don’t you?
Over the course of three days, it rained, we walked the campsite with treats and yelling her name, we read every post we could find online about how to handle a missing cat, we made missing cat flyers, we talked to the employees of the campsite. The trip to the Fedex to make lost cat posters was perhaps one of the saddest in my life. We were instructed to empty her cat litter around our campsite and that cats can smell their litter for up to four miles away. We also had opened cat food and treats by our site. We didn’t sleep much in the three days. We left opened cat food outside and it attracted skunks at night. Thinking it was Trout, we’d race to the window with hope but realize very quickly it was a potentially smelly visitor. By day three, I was fighting the urge to google year round weather predictions for that part of the country. I was resigned to stay there as long as I could afford to.
On the third night, I thought I heard something outside. I told Sam, who quietly walked up to the window. He didn’t see anything and returned to bed. I should mentioned at this point, the employees of the campsite felt so bad for us because of the lost cat and the rain, they were letting us stay in a cabin right next to the campsite. So cat litter, cat food, is on a covered porch of a little one bedroom cabin about 20 feet from our original campsite. We heard another noise, Sam got up and went to the window. At this point he said nothing and opened the door. Trout was on the porch and walked nonchalantly into the cabin. Sam shut the door. JOY! JUBILATION!
She came back. She was damp from the rain but otherwise perfectly fine. She had a bit of sap on her front arm, so I hypothesize she’d been taking cover in a tree? We’ll never know. We feed her immediately and she was quite hungry. Sam said it took everything he had not to act excited when opening the door for fear it would spook her and she’d run away. She came back! I still can’t believe it as I write this, almost eight months later. We left Flagstaff for the Grand Canyon the next day. Distracted from the previous three day saga, the Canyon was too large to comprehend. Maybe we’ll go back one day and leave Trout with a cat sitter.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (04/26/14 14:29:11):
How fantastic! Maybe she didn't like the basic accommodation of the van, but when she realized you had been upgraded she decided to come back giving you a second chance to prove yourself worthy of her company :-)
By Megan Mueller (04/14/14 09:46:09)
Related animal: Cat
I lost my cat in Flagstaff Arizona for three days. My boyfriend, my cat and I were making our way across the country from Washington DC to Goleta CA, where I would be starting graduate school at UCSB. We began our trip in Pittsburgh and Detroit to see family and then made our way across the mid west through Wisconsin, South Dakota, Colorado, Utah, on our way to the Grand Canyon. By the time we arrived in Flagstaff, we had been traveling for about three weeks, and I was a confident traveler. Trout, our cat, also seemed to be adjusting to the trip quite nicely. We allowed her to roam freely in the car and she enjoyed napping under the back seat. We arrived in the Flagstaff campsite around midnight and it was quite dark. I opened the doors of our van, put on a sweatshirt, closed the doors to our van and then walked to the common bathroom. When I came back to the car, I opened the doors, expecting to see the cat and did not. We opened the back doors, looked under everything, and did not see her. At this point my boyfriend and I are hopeful that she just got out of the car when we went to the bathroom but panic is escalating in our brain. We are using the flashlights on our cell phone to scan the area, rewalking the path the bathroom, opening cans of food (a sound that usually send her running from any room in the house). We are making all the kissy cat noises you can think of, calling her name. But its midnight in a packed campsite so we are fighting that politeness in your brain that tells you not to yell when people are sleeping. Do you? Don’t you?
Over the course of three days, it rained, we walked the campsite with treats and yelling her name, we read every post we could find online about how to handle a missing cat, we made missing cat flyers, we talked to the employees of the campsite. The trip to the Fedex to make lost cat posters was perhaps one of the saddest in my life. We were instructed to empty her cat litter around our campsite and that cats can smell their litter for up to four miles away. We also had opened cat food and treats by our site. We didn’t sleep much in the three days. We left opened cat food outside and it attracted skunks at night. Thinking it was Trout, we’d race to the window with hope but realize very quickly it was a potentially smelly visitor. By day three, I was fighting the urge to google year round weather predictions for that part of the country. I was resigned to stay there as long as I could afford to.
On the third night, I thought I heard something outside. I told Sam, who quietly walked up to the window. He didn’t see anything and returned to bed. I should mentioned at this point, the employees of the campsite felt so bad for us because of the lost cat and the rain, they were letting us stay in a cabin right next to the campsite. So cat litter, cat food, is on a covered porch of a little one bedroom cabin about 20 feet from our original campsite. We heard another noise, Sam got up and went to the window. At this point he said nothing and opened the door. Trout was on the porch and walked nonchalantly into the cabin. Sam shut the door. JOY! JUBILATION!
She came back. She was damp from the rain but otherwise perfectly fine. She had a bit of sap on her front arm, so I hypothesize she’d been taking cover in a tree? We’ll never know. We feed her immediately and she was quite hungry. Sam said it took everything he had not to act excited when opening the door for fear it would spook her and she’d run away. She came back! I still can’t believe it as I write this, almost eight months later. We left Flagstaff for the Grand Canyon the next day. Distracted from the previous three day saga, the Canyon was too large to comprehend. Maybe we’ll go back one day and leave Trout with a cat sitter.
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Comment by LisaJ (04/26/14 14:29:11):
How fantastic! Maybe she didn't like the basic accommodation of the van, but when she realized you had been upgraded she decided to come back giving you a second chance to prove yourself worthy of her company :-)
Island trip
By Lillian Shanahan (05/21/10 13:53:55)
Related animals: Dolphin, Fox, Hump Back Whale, Seal
The trip to Santa Cruz island was awesome,
First on the boat ride over there we saw many groups of dolphins and whales and seals. I was excited because it was my first time being that close to any of these animals.
I have never been to sea world (thank god) and haven't been on many boats except for out in lake Tahoe and the San Francisco bay- where I was actually fishing.. so i don't know if that counts. One time there was a great white spotting and we had to go in early but I never saw the shark although that would have been amazing.
on the island I went out in to the bushes a lot in attempts to meet a fox. The first time the foxes came to the camp site I was on one of these excursions, which made me a little sad. But I didn't give up and on sat I went into some bushed a little far from out site and sat there drawing for 30 minutes when i heard leaves crunch behind me. I turned around and sure enough there was a little fox. It stayed at least two feet away from me the whole time, it circled me on me left side and stood there for a while before it trotted off. I tried to call it back but it didn't turn around.
later I found out that they like to take people's things, at the time I had taken my shoes off but nothing else, my bag was right in front of me so I think that was too close for him to try.
I wish there was some way i could have communicated better with the animal but in the moment really the only thing to do was to let it check me out and see if he wanted to stay and play more. This fox checked me out and then wanted to leave. That's too bad, maybe next time I will get one who will want to play
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (05/21/10 13:53:55)
Related animals: Dolphin, Fox, Hump Back Whale, Seal
The trip to Santa Cruz island was awesome,
First on the boat ride over there we saw many groups of dolphins and whales and seals. I was excited because it was my first time being that close to any of these animals.
I have never been to sea world (thank god) and haven't been on many boats except for out in lake Tahoe and the San Francisco bay- where I was actually fishing.. so i don't know if that counts. One time there was a great white spotting and we had to go in early but I never saw the shark although that would have been amazing.
on the island I went out in to the bushes a lot in attempts to meet a fox. The first time the foxes came to the camp site I was on one of these excursions, which made me a little sad. But I didn't give up and on sat I went into some bushed a little far from out site and sat there drawing for 30 minutes when i heard leaves crunch behind me. I turned around and sure enough there was a little fox. It stayed at least two feet away from me the whole time, it circled me on me left side and stood there for a while before it trotted off. I tried to call it back but it didn't turn around.
later I found out that they like to take people's things, at the time I had taken my shoes off but nothing else, my bag was right in front of me so I think that was too close for him to try.
I wish there was some way i could have communicated better with the animal but in the moment really the only thing to do was to let it check me out and see if he wanted to stay and play more. This fox checked me out and then wanted to leave. That's too bad, maybe next time I will get one who will want to play
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Jim Nollan
By Laura Santizo (06/10/13 00:02:04)
Jim Nollan seems to be very in tune with animals. After reading these chapters I think his works are a true product of an interaction. He doesn't simply use the animals, he engages in meaningful relationships, were animals is just as much charge of the situation as he is. I really like his project of making music with animals. Animal sounds are so unique and varied I'm glad someone finally incorporated them.
I also really like the point he makes about learning from animals and not about them. I think science has removed us from thinking that we too are animals. The literature in science has only served to increased the divide between us and non-humans. I think we need to learn from the ways other animals live and how the interact with one another. We like to think we are the most advanced creatures but other animals have just a complex social interactions. Animals can really show us how to live more within our means and avoid greed and mass consumption.
In addition I never really considered if there should be an inter species protocol but I think Nollan is right. There must be respect on both sides in order to make work that it a true collaboration.
[Write Comment]
By Laura Santizo (06/10/13 00:02:04)
Jim Nollan seems to be very in tune with animals. After reading these chapters I think his works are a true product of an interaction. He doesn't simply use the animals, he engages in meaningful relationships, were animals is just as much charge of the situation as he is. I really like his project of making music with animals. Animal sounds are so unique and varied I'm glad someone finally incorporated them.
I also really like the point he makes about learning from animals and not about them. I think science has removed us from thinking that we too are animals. The literature in science has only served to increased the divide between us and non-humans. I think we need to learn from the ways other animals live and how the interact with one another. We like to think we are the most advanced creatures but other animals have just a complex social interactions. Animals can really show us how to live more within our means and avoid greed and mass consumption.
In addition I never really considered if there should be an inter species protocol but I think Nollan is right. There must be respect on both sides in order to make work that it a true collaboration.
[Write Comment]
Jim Nollman
By Martin C. Shaver (06/13/10 16:28:28)
I found everything that Jim Nollman to very interesting and seemingly the head of the field. During his lecture and in his text it is apparent that he has pretty extensive knowledge the collaboration with dolphins and whales, which is incredible. however, i have a qualm with what not only i picked up on during this all. his book was indeed informative and it seemed that he had a particular passion for his work, but to hear him speak about it, it seemed that this passion had started to slip. the way that he described his work, it seemed as if he was uninterested in what he was doing. it seemed like he was more proud that he had made his accomplishments and was used as a source for the navy, but wasn't really in for the connection with the animals anymore.
[Write Comment]
By Martin C. Shaver (06/13/10 16:28:28)
I found everything that Jim Nollman to very interesting and seemingly the head of the field. During his lecture and in his text it is apparent that he has pretty extensive knowledge the collaboration with dolphins and whales, which is incredible. however, i have a qualm with what not only i picked up on during this all. his book was indeed informative and it seemed that he had a particular passion for his work, but to hear him speak about it, it seemed that this passion had started to slip. the way that he described his work, it seemed as if he was uninterested in what he was doing. it seemed like he was more proud that he had made his accomplishments and was used as a source for the navy, but wasn't really in for the connection with the animals anymore.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made by Non-Human Animals
Jim Nollman "Turkey Trot" & "interspecies Protocol"
By Mary Zdybel (04/25/10 22:49:29)
Related animals: Lion, Turkey
In Chapters 1 and 4 of the book, The Man Who Talks to Whales, author Jim Nollman discusses his unique relationship with animals and how his interesting collaborations came to unfold. I found Nollman’s writing very easy to relate to, as he spoke of his love for animals from a very young age I became reminiscent of the same curiosity I felt to explore the animal kingdom. I also enjoyed that Nollman followed his passion for music and the path he chose lead him back to his love for animals. I agree with the authors statement when he says that he “did not necessarily want to learn about animals, so much as he wanted to learn from them,” however, I felt his view of scientists and zoologists to be a bit harsh. Nollman saw scientists as just trying to accumulate more information about animals—meant to “help” us as humans to grow. It interested me because the same love and passion I felt for animals as a child never translated to the dislike or distrust of the scientists that study them, I have always felt that scientists in their studies are doing good for the animals. I understand how Nollman can perceive these scientific efforts as humanistic, but I believe that much good can come from the studies of animals. We are destroying the natural habitats of these animals at such a rapid rate, it is imperative that we learn as much as possible from them before it is too late and we are unable to restore their environments.
In chapter four, “Interspecies Protocol,” Nollman states that we need to establish new ecological metaphors; claiming that our use of words like ‘people’ and ‘neighborhood’ to describe ecosystems is proof that language mirrors our worldview. I definitely agree with the author when he says that we “need to learn to perceive other animals in an entirely new way: as individuals, and possibly, as peers. In his description of the relationship between the Bushmen and the lion, Nollman brings up the issue of establishing protocol with animals to bring our understanding of one another to a higher level and live in a more harmonious manner with each other sharing a single Earth. As he says, “we need to know that lions as the Bushman knew them.” Based on Webster’s definition of protocol, ‘interspecies protocol’ can be understood to mean: “The forms and manners (and defense postures) that any species conforms to when relating to another species.” However, I much more agree with the Tao’s statement, “The relationship with nature that can be defined is never the real relationship with nature.”
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Mary Zdybel (04/25/10 22:49:29)
Related animals: Lion, Turkey
In Chapters 1 and 4 of the book, The Man Who Talks to Whales, author Jim Nollman discusses his unique relationship with animals and how his interesting collaborations came to unfold. I found Nollman’s writing very easy to relate to, as he spoke of his love for animals from a very young age I became reminiscent of the same curiosity I felt to explore the animal kingdom. I also enjoyed that Nollman followed his passion for music and the path he chose lead him back to his love for animals. I agree with the authors statement when he says that he “did not necessarily want to learn about animals, so much as he wanted to learn from them,” however, I felt his view of scientists and zoologists to be a bit harsh. Nollman saw scientists as just trying to accumulate more information about animals—meant to “help” us as humans to grow. It interested me because the same love and passion I felt for animals as a child never translated to the dislike or distrust of the scientists that study them, I have always felt that scientists in their studies are doing good for the animals. I understand how Nollman can perceive these scientific efforts as humanistic, but I believe that much good can come from the studies of animals. We are destroying the natural habitats of these animals at such a rapid rate, it is imperative that we learn as much as possible from them before it is too late and we are unable to restore their environments.
In chapter four, “Interspecies Protocol,” Nollman states that we need to establish new ecological metaphors; claiming that our use of words like ‘people’ and ‘neighborhood’ to describe ecosystems is proof that language mirrors our worldview. I definitely agree with the author when he says that we “need to learn to perceive other animals in an entirely new way: as individuals, and possibly, as peers. In his description of the relationship between the Bushmen and the lion, Nollman brings up the issue of establishing protocol with animals to bring our understanding of one another to a higher level and live in a more harmonious manner with each other sharing a single Earth. As he says, “we need to know that lions as the Bushman knew them.” Based on Webster’s definition of protocol, ‘interspecies protocol’ can be understood to mean: “The forms and manners (and defense postures) that any species conforms to when relating to another species.” However, I much more agree with the Tao’s statement, “The relationship with nature that can be defined is never the real relationship with nature.”
Jim Nollman Readings
By Jeffrey Jacobs (04/27/10 11:16:27)
I read a few selected chapters from Jim Nollman's book The Man Who Talks To Whales and I really enjoyed the way the author described his own discovery that it is far more interesting to learn from non-human animals rather than about them. I thought that this was a great point because modern science has us believe that as humans it is out job to learn about out world and the animals that inhabit it. Nollman makes the point that if we work together with animals in our methods of research, through artistic collaboration, there is far more to gain from the experience than just studying the animal as separate entities all together. Jim Nollman spent years out on a boat in the Puget Sound between Washington and Canada pumping the music of his guitar into the water so that he could collaborate with the whales and have them sing back to him. When I first heard of this project and heard one of the sound files of him and the whales seamlessly playing a song together I thought that it was awesome. However, the more I thought about it, and especially after hearing him talk so unenthusiastically about the work my opinions changed a little bit. He even said himself that for every twenty or thirty hours they would spend playing music into the water, he would only get a few seconds of usable recordings together with the whales. This made me start to think that perhaps he might just be bothering the whales by pumping noise pollution into the water. After all, who knows if the music was even aesthetically pleasing for a whales ears? Perhaps the times when the whales were communicating back to him they were really just trying to satisfy him to get him to stop trying, or even telling him to be quiet. Either way, the project was interesting nonetheless, I just don't know if it was as much of an actual collaboration or a chance interaction. It seems to me that if you play music to whales most days for twenty years, sometimes whale noises will probably be heard in the recordings.
On a completely unrelated note, I was also a little bummed to hear that the man who used to play music for turkeys now kills them and eats them... people change I guess.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (04/27/10 11:16:27)
I read a few selected chapters from Jim Nollman's book The Man Who Talks To Whales and I really enjoyed the way the author described his own discovery that it is far more interesting to learn from non-human animals rather than about them. I thought that this was a great point because modern science has us believe that as humans it is out job to learn about out world and the animals that inhabit it. Nollman makes the point that if we work together with animals in our methods of research, through artistic collaboration, there is far more to gain from the experience than just studying the animal as separate entities all together. Jim Nollman spent years out on a boat in the Puget Sound between Washington and Canada pumping the music of his guitar into the water so that he could collaborate with the whales and have them sing back to him. When I first heard of this project and heard one of the sound files of him and the whales seamlessly playing a song together I thought that it was awesome. However, the more I thought about it, and especially after hearing him talk so unenthusiastically about the work my opinions changed a little bit. He even said himself that for every twenty or thirty hours they would spend playing music into the water, he would only get a few seconds of usable recordings together with the whales. This made me start to think that perhaps he might just be bothering the whales by pumping noise pollution into the water. After all, who knows if the music was even aesthetically pleasing for a whales ears? Perhaps the times when the whales were communicating back to him they were really just trying to satisfy him to get him to stop trying, or even telling him to be quiet. Either way, the project was interesting nonetheless, I just don't know if it was as much of an actual collaboration or a chance interaction. It seems to me that if you play music to whales most days for twenty years, sometimes whale noises will probably be heard in the recordings.
On a completely unrelated note, I was also a little bummed to hear that the man who used to play music for turkeys now kills them and eats them... people change I guess.
[Write Comment]
Jim Nolman Reading #1
By James Rowan (06/10/10 15:12:15)
Jim Nolman's texts are extremely interesting. I feel that today, his way of thinking about animals is much more prevalent. He wanted to get into zoology so that he could help animals and our relationships with them, especially because we have invaded so much of their territory and forced them to try and coexist with them. When he was a kid, most zoologists just studied the anatomy of animals, reducing them to mere piles of flesh and bone, not ever thinking about any intelligence or feelings that they may have. I have always had a connection with animals, and I think that growing up on a farm has allowed me to connect with animals that most people never encounter in their lives, let alone on a day to day basis.
I love the fact that he discovered his relationship with the turkey in Mexico purely by accident. Some of the smartest animals have the worst reputations. I have found pigs to be some of the most intelligent, loving animals. They are easy to make a strong bond with, which makes it that much harder when the animals are being raised for a 4-H program. Anytime I approached the barn, the pigs would hear me coming and starting grunting in unison. As lame as it sounds, I would just grunt "pig, pigpigpig" again and again, all of us performing some guttural type of melody.
I would have loved to have the opportunity that Nolman had when he got to go and visit the turkey farm. It would be interesting to get that kind of response from such a large group of animals and see what kind of melodies would elicit the best responses. It is hard to get access to groups of that size. Most animals do not exist in large groups today like they used to because of human development and environmental regulations do not allow you to approach many groups that do exist. Going to a large farm that raises animals for commercial consumption may not be the easiest thing to do and may not appeal to that many people, but it is a great way to interact with animals on a large scale.
[Write Comment]
By James Rowan (06/10/10 15:12:15)
Jim Nolman's texts are extremely interesting. I feel that today, his way of thinking about animals is much more prevalent. He wanted to get into zoology so that he could help animals and our relationships with them, especially because we have invaded so much of their territory and forced them to try and coexist with them. When he was a kid, most zoologists just studied the anatomy of animals, reducing them to mere piles of flesh and bone, not ever thinking about any intelligence or feelings that they may have. I have always had a connection with animals, and I think that growing up on a farm has allowed me to connect with animals that most people never encounter in their lives, let alone on a day to day basis.
I love the fact that he discovered his relationship with the turkey in Mexico purely by accident. Some of the smartest animals have the worst reputations. I have found pigs to be some of the most intelligent, loving animals. They are easy to make a strong bond with, which makes it that much harder when the animals are being raised for a 4-H program. Anytime I approached the barn, the pigs would hear me coming and starting grunting in unison. As lame as it sounds, I would just grunt "pig, pigpigpig" again and again, all of us performing some guttural type of melody.
I would have loved to have the opportunity that Nolman had when he got to go and visit the turkey farm. It would be interesting to get that kind of response from such a large group of animals and see what kind of melodies would elicit the best responses. It is hard to get access to groups of that size. Most animals do not exist in large groups today like they used to because of human development and environmental regulations do not allow you to approach many groups that do exist. Going to a large farm that raises animals for commercial consumption may not be the easiest thing to do and may not appeal to that many people, but it is a great way to interact with animals on a large scale.
[Write Comment]
Julius: The Kitten
By Alli Harrod (04/09/10 21:04:12)
Related animal: Cat
I wanted to post a photo of my surly kitten, Julius...
[Write Comment]
By Alli Harrod (04/09/10 21:04:12)
Related animal: Cat
I wanted to post a photo of my surly kitten, Julius...
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Reflection: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Kou Ack Ack Ack - Art Show
By Cori Arnold (06/08/09 11:44:22)
Visit this site: http://picasaweb.google.com/corine.arnold/KouAckAckAck#slideshow/5345026626781227090 for show documentation.
[Write Comment]
By Cori Arnold (06/08/09 11:44:22)
Visit this site: http://picasaweb.google.com/corine.arnold/KouAckAckAck#slideshow/5345026626781227090 for show documentation.
[Write Comment]
Story: Non-Ordinary and Metaphorical Collaborations with Animals
Lagoon Excursion
By Hector Medina (06/04/13 11:37:55)
Related animals: Racoon, Skunk, Frog, Rabbit
Going on the nature walk today was actually pretty interesting. It was nice to actually stop and notice what is in our backyards. I knew already of some of the animals that live in the lagoon, but I don’t know about bunnies and amount of ladybugs. Usually there are many birds on the platform that extends into the lagoon, it was sad that there wasn’t any today. There were some ducks though floating though so they were interesting to see. I knew there are skunks and raccoons. I guess it never occurred to me where they lived or hided during the day. I got a couple pictures of where they lived, or at least the opening to their burrows. Also I got some pictures of some paw prints on the mud. I can’t say they were dog’s the nail seemed really sharp like claws. Along the trail I also got a food recording of the frogs ribbetting away. Sounded like an orchestra. After branching away from the group Katie and I went up the hill to see if we could find some rabbits. Unfortunately we didn’t see them, yet we did hear them tussling in the bushes. It was nice to actually take the time to see what UCSB campus has to offer other than book knowledge.
[Write Comment]
By Hector Medina (06/04/13 11:37:55)
Related animals: Racoon, Skunk, Frog, Rabbit
Going on the nature walk today was actually pretty interesting. It was nice to actually stop and notice what is in our backyards. I knew already of some of the animals that live in the lagoon, but I don’t know about bunnies and amount of ladybugs. Usually there are many birds on the platform that extends into the lagoon, it was sad that there wasn’t any today. There were some ducks though floating though so they were interesting to see. I knew there are skunks and raccoons. I guess it never occurred to me where they lived or hided during the day. I got a couple pictures of where they lived, or at least the opening to their burrows. Also I got some pictures of some paw prints on the mud. I can’t say they were dog’s the nail seemed really sharp like claws. Along the trail I also got a food recording of the frogs ribbetting away. Sounded like an orchestra. After branching away from the group Katie and I went up the hill to see if we could find some rabbits. Unfortunately we didn’t see them, yet we did hear them tussling in the bushes. It was nice to actually take the time to see what UCSB campus has to offer other than book knowledge.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Learned in Barbara Janell's workshop
By ho chi leung (04/20/10 01:27:00)
Related animal: Dog
I do not think Barbara Janell has really taught us a way to communicate with animals. Everything she said was so abstract that I do not think it really works. Before she came, I thought she had some spiritual things inside her, so she could talk to trees. However, after I learnt about how to talk to trees from her, I realized everything from her came from her imagination, so basically, she was teaching us to use our imagination.
Anyways, in order to fulfill the assignment, I used the tree method to talk to my dog Snowbo. Because I think that if the method works on the tree, it should work on dogs too. My dog was bored and was lying on the floor. I went to him and felt his existence. Then, I asked him if he loved me or not, then my heart answered me a no. My dog looked at me and licked my face. I was silence for few minutes and didn’t do anything next to him, so he turned his head away.
In short, I do not think Snowbo had answered my question. It was myself who answered my own question. Barbara suggested us to find a tree if we have headache or if we have difficulties that need an answer, I guess she succeeded to do that because standing next to tree gave her the peacefulness that calmed her nerve, so she could think properly in herself, so it was not really the tree that answered her questions.
[Write Comment]
By ho chi leung (04/20/10 01:27:00)
Related animal: Dog
I do not think Barbara Janell has really taught us a way to communicate with animals. Everything she said was so abstract that I do not think it really works. Before she came, I thought she had some spiritual things inside her, so she could talk to trees. However, after I learnt about how to talk to trees from her, I realized everything from her came from her imagination, so basically, she was teaching us to use our imagination.
Anyways, in order to fulfill the assignment, I used the tree method to talk to my dog Snowbo. Because I think that if the method works on the tree, it should work on dogs too. My dog was bored and was lying on the floor. I went to him and felt his existence. Then, I asked him if he loved me or not, then my heart answered me a no. My dog looked at me and licked my face. I was silence for few minutes and didn’t do anything next to him, so he turned his head away.
In short, I do not think Snowbo had answered my question. It was myself who answered my own question. Barbara suggested us to find a tree if we have headache or if we have difficulties that need an answer, I guess she succeeded to do that because standing next to tree gave her the peacefulness that calmed her nerve, so she could think properly in herself, so it was not really the tree that answered her questions.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Human Animal Perception and Cognition
Lecture Response
By Natalie Croak (04/23/13 15:08:22)
Related animal: Kea
The video on birdsong was interesting because both the scientists and the philosopher seemed unable to admit that there might be validity in both arguments. Even though there is scientific evidence that birds do use their song for attracting mates and scaring enemies, the scientists seemed to think that birds do not have the mental capacity to do things for enjoyment or self-expression. I believe that animals are capable of much more than we think they are. This belief was influenced by my experiences traveling New Zealand for three months learning about the country’s bird species. By far my favorites were the extremely intelligent carnivorous alpine parrots called keas, which I was lucky enough to have a few interactions with. The first time that I saw keas was while I was in a parking lot of one of New Zealand’s national parks. One kea was walking around the cars and seemed to be posing for pictures as all the tourists crowded to get a better look. In the background I noticed that another kea was busy stripping all of the rubber off of the tourists’ car windows while they were distracted (for some reason keas love rubber). I realized that these keas were working as a team in order to get as much rubber as possible. After talking to New Zealanders about what I saw I learned that keas often work in teams to get food. A mountaineering guide told me that they have been known to drop ice on hikers’ heads in order to distract them while other keas unzip their backpacks and fly off with the contents. I believe that extremely intelligent animals like keas would be able to sing or partake in other forms of self-expression solely for their own enjoyment.
The philosopher in the video was unable to convince the scientists that his argument was correct because he hinged his argument on the question of why birdsong is beautiful if it is only for utilitarian purposes. This argument is not valid in the scientific community because beauty is a subjective concept that is difficult to quantify. The philosopher believed that art and science are not completely distinct disciplines and seemed to be frustrated that when art or appreciation for the beauty of nature were brought into the conversation it made his argument appear weaker to the scientific community. This reminded me of a quote by Aldo Leopold in “The Sand County Almanac.”---“There are men charged with the duty of examining the construction of plants, animals, and soils which are the instruments of a great orchestra. These men are called professors. Each selects one instrument and spends his life taking it apart and describing its strings and sounding boards. This process of dismemberment is called research. The place for dismemberment is called a university. A professor may pluck the strings of his own instrument, but never that of another, and if he listens for music he must never admit it to his fellows or to his students. For all are restrained by an ironbound taboo which decrees that the construction of instruments is the domain of science, while the detection of harmony is the domain of poets.”
[Write Comment]
By Natalie Croak (04/23/13 15:08:22)
Related animal: Kea
The video on birdsong was interesting because both the scientists and the philosopher seemed unable to admit that there might be validity in both arguments. Even though there is scientific evidence that birds do use their song for attracting mates and scaring enemies, the scientists seemed to think that birds do not have the mental capacity to do things for enjoyment or self-expression. I believe that animals are capable of much more than we think they are. This belief was influenced by my experiences traveling New Zealand for three months learning about the country’s bird species. By far my favorites were the extremely intelligent carnivorous alpine parrots called keas, which I was lucky enough to have a few interactions with. The first time that I saw keas was while I was in a parking lot of one of New Zealand’s national parks. One kea was walking around the cars and seemed to be posing for pictures as all the tourists crowded to get a better look. In the background I noticed that another kea was busy stripping all of the rubber off of the tourists’ car windows while they were distracted (for some reason keas love rubber). I realized that these keas were working as a team in order to get as much rubber as possible. After talking to New Zealanders about what I saw I learned that keas often work in teams to get food. A mountaineering guide told me that they have been known to drop ice on hikers’ heads in order to distract them while other keas unzip their backpacks and fly off with the contents. I believe that extremely intelligent animals like keas would be able to sing or partake in other forms of self-expression solely for their own enjoyment.
The philosopher in the video was unable to convince the scientists that his argument was correct because he hinged his argument on the question of why birdsong is beautiful if it is only for utilitarian purposes. This argument is not valid in the scientific community because beauty is a subjective concept that is difficult to quantify. The philosopher believed that art and science are not completely distinct disciplines and seemed to be frustrated that when art or appreciation for the beauty of nature were brought into the conversation it made his argument appear weaker to the scientific community. This reminded me of a quote by Aldo Leopold in “The Sand County Almanac.”---“There are men charged with the duty of examining the construction of plants, animals, and soils which are the instruments of a great orchestra. These men are called professors. Each selects one instrument and spends his life taking it apart and describing its strings and sounding boards. This process of dismemberment is called research. The place for dismemberment is called a university. A professor may pluck the strings of his own instrument, but never that of another, and if he listens for music he must never admit it to his fellows or to his students. For all are restrained by an ironbound taboo which decrees that the construction of instruments is the domain of science, while the detection of harmony is the domain of poets.”
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A video about kea's intelligence |
Essay: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Leonard Proposal
By Norah Eldredge (04/14/10 16:52:27)
Related animal: Cat
For my project, I am proposing collaboration with my house cat, Leonard. He is a two year old black Bengal and very curious whenever I draw or work on the floor of my room. Usually, I place a piece of paper on the ground and instantly he comes over, purrs, inspects my movements and then curls up on top of the paper.
Every time he does this, it is in a different position, a different part of the paper. To document this, I will trace around his body every time and on a different sheet of paper each time. I hope to end up with a collection of "drawings" inspired by and using his movements.
[Write Comment]
By Norah Eldredge (04/14/10 16:52:27)
Related animal: Cat
For my project, I am proposing collaboration with my house cat, Leonard. He is a two year old black Bengal and very curious whenever I draw or work on the floor of my room. Usually, I place a piece of paper on the ground and instantly he comes over, purrs, inspects my movements and then curls up on top of the paper.
Every time he does this, it is in a different position, a different part of the paper. To document this, I will trace around his body every time and on a different sheet of paper each time. I hope to end up with a collection of "drawings" inspired by and using his movements.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Leonard's Progress
By Norah Eldredge (05/04/10 08:48:02)
Related animal: Cat
I want to discuss two things for Leonard.
First is his jaw or mouth area that Lisa and I both experienced when communicating with him when Barbara was visiting our class. Lisa and I both chose Leonard, and both experienced the same odd warm/tender/swollen feeling in the jaw that the cat might also be experiencing. As Lisa said, it wasn't painful or bad, it was simply a sensation that brought our attention to his jaw.
I did a few experiments with this to see if I could do something for him based on this information and experience. I massaged his jaws, looking for a response and for any indication of a possible tooth ache or mouth pain. Nothing seemed to show up, but he purred a lot a really seemed to enjoy the feeling. After about two minutes of massaging his jaw, he turned and bit then held my hand in his jaw. This is a play thing that he does often; with my hand, my arm, my ankles, so I was not surprised when he did it. However, I did have a new perspective on it. Perhaps the sensation Lisa and I both felt was his desire to chew things, to gnaw or play with things he could put in his mouth (ie, my limbs).
After this thought, I went and got him a squishy toy I thought he could chew on. He was interested in it for a little while and then decided that he like my arms and hands better!
The other topic is our progress on his drawings. We've been doing a few drawings a week, and they are coming along very well! He usually chooses edges to rest on, and I am working on getting him to move more toward the middle of the page at least once so one can see his whole shape on the paper.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (05/19/10 16:22:23):
Scan the drawings and upload them please!
By Norah Eldredge (05/04/10 08:48:02)
Related animal: Cat
I want to discuss two things for Leonard.
First is his jaw or mouth area that Lisa and I both experienced when communicating with him when Barbara was visiting our class. Lisa and I both chose Leonard, and both experienced the same odd warm/tender/swollen feeling in the jaw that the cat might also be experiencing. As Lisa said, it wasn't painful or bad, it was simply a sensation that brought our attention to his jaw.
I did a few experiments with this to see if I could do something for him based on this information and experience. I massaged his jaws, looking for a response and for any indication of a possible tooth ache or mouth pain. Nothing seemed to show up, but he purred a lot a really seemed to enjoy the feeling. After about two minutes of massaging his jaw, he turned and bit then held my hand in his jaw. This is a play thing that he does often; with my hand, my arm, my ankles, so I was not surprised when he did it. However, I did have a new perspective on it. Perhaps the sensation Lisa and I both felt was his desire to chew things, to gnaw or play with things he could put in his mouth (ie, my limbs).
After this thought, I went and got him a squishy toy I thought he could chew on. He was interested in it for a little while and then decided that he like my arms and hands better!
The other topic is our progress on his drawings. We've been doing a few drawings a week, and they are coming along very well! He usually chooses edges to rest on, and I am working on getting him to move more toward the middle of the page at least once so one can see his whole shape on the paper.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (05/19/10 16:22:23):
Scan the drawings and upload them please!
Other: Other Related Research
Letters from Charlie/Timothy Treawell
By Danusia Young (05/09/10 21:10:47)
Related animal: Bear
The article “Letters from Charlie.” was very interesting. Not a long ago I did see a few youtube clips about Timothy Treawell but I did not know that he was killed by one of the bears. After viewing few of the short documentary shots of him I remember thinking that he has to love danger. Even he sad himself that he is different from other people and even though the situation is extremely dangerous he love to live around the wiled bears. I agree with the author of the article that Timothy should take safety measures when living in wild. I think that similar to human societies one can find good, “passionate” (as author points), friendly bears. But in the same time one can encounter bears that are extremely dangerous and aggressive. I also believe that if we want to study any type of wild animals we should keep a save distance not only to protect ourselves but also to give them the space that they need to maintain their natural habitat. We as a human race already taken away their natural way of existence and now have to learn to live with them in a peaceful coexistence with out interfering. Maybe they did tolerate Timothy but never really accepted him in to their bear family (though he seemed to think otherwise).
The documentary film, “Walking with the Giants” left me with many questions that are very hard to answer. Do I agree with Charlie Russell and Maureen Enns interference in the daily life of the grizzly bears of Kamchatka? The film made me realized that their intentions to live among the grizzlies, study them in close proximity and help people to understand their true nature is good but how do their interactions with the bears influence future encounters with other humans? Through this film I began to appreciate their effort and determination to change our views about bears being one of the most dangers animals on the planet. It is my opinion that any species that are put in a dangerous or unusual situations may kill to protect themselves. Even domesticated animal can impulsively turns against their owner under stressful circumstances. Charles and Maureen’s work with the small bear cubs proved to others that given a second chance these cubs and others like them could be easily shown how to adapt to their natural environment. The cubs also proved that they could learn fast on their own with little help from humans. I only hope that after trusting Russell and Enns, not only the cubs but also other bears, will still be cautious around humans. I think that we do not have to put ourselves in close proximity to wild animals to study them. Perhaps if people can keep a save distance when studying various species, the risk of endangering the animals would be diminished.
[Write Comment]
By Danusia Young (05/09/10 21:10:47)
Related animal: Bear
The article “Letters from Charlie.” was very interesting. Not a long ago I did see a few youtube clips about Timothy Treawell but I did not know that he was killed by one of the bears. After viewing few of the short documentary shots of him I remember thinking that he has to love danger. Even he sad himself that he is different from other people and even though the situation is extremely dangerous he love to live around the wiled bears. I agree with the author of the article that Timothy should take safety measures when living in wild. I think that similar to human societies one can find good, “passionate” (as author points), friendly bears. But in the same time one can encounter bears that are extremely dangerous and aggressive. I also believe that if we want to study any type of wild animals we should keep a save distance not only to protect ourselves but also to give them the space that they need to maintain their natural habitat. We as a human race already taken away their natural way of existence and now have to learn to live with them in a peaceful coexistence with out interfering. Maybe they did tolerate Timothy but never really accepted him in to their bear family (though he seemed to think otherwise).
The documentary film, “Walking with the Giants” left me with many questions that are very hard to answer. Do I agree with Charlie Russell and Maureen Enns interference in the daily life of the grizzly bears of Kamchatka? The film made me realized that their intentions to live among the grizzlies, study them in close proximity and help people to understand their true nature is good but how do their interactions with the bears influence future encounters with other humans? Through this film I began to appreciate their effort and determination to change our views about bears being one of the most dangers animals on the planet. It is my opinion that any species that are put in a dangerous or unusual situations may kill to protect themselves. Even domesticated animal can impulsively turns against their owner under stressful circumstances. Charles and Maureen’s work with the small bear cubs proved to others that given a second chance these cubs and others like them could be easily shown how to adapt to their natural environment. The cubs also proved that they could learn fast on their own with little help from humans. I only hope that after trusting Russell and Enns, not only the cubs but also other bears, will still be cautious around humans. I think that we do not have to put ourselves in close proximity to wild animals to study them. Perhaps if people can keep a save distance when studying various species, the risk of endangering the animals would be diminished.
[Write Comment]
Lil Orphan Hammies
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 12:03:23)
Related animal: Pot Belly Pig
Lil’ Orphan Hammies
We recently took a class trip to a place in Solvang where a woman named Sue Parkinson adopts the pot-bellied pigs of people who cannot take care of them after they get to be too large. She currently is in the care of over ninety pigs and has recently decided that she can no longer accept new ones. The very idea of why a place like this should need to exist in the first place is puzzling. Why is it that so many people are buying pot-bellied pigs as pets when they are young, without doing any kind of research into what they are going to grow up to be like. Sue told us that people are told by the piglet solicitors that they will not grow much more, and they will stay the size of a small dog. However, if anyone was actually considering purchasing a pig as a pet, you would think that they would want to do the minute amount of research that it would take to discover that their pig could potentially grow to be three hundred pounds. Instead, they purchase the piglet on what would seem to be an impulse buy and feed it for a year or so before they realize they have a problem. Sue told us that to make matters even worse, there are a few old ladies who live near by who by hordes of piglets at a time, simply because they think they are cute. When the piglets grow up, the ladies try to get rid of fifty or more full grown pigs all at once. Sue explained to us that she helped in one of these situations years ago, adopting almost fifty pigs at once, but she no longer is capable of saving so many. In many ways I felt bad for Sue. Here was an incredibly nice woman with a big heart who wanted nothing more than to give these pigs a new chance at a good life and to show them love. I think that lately she has come to a realization that this problem is continuing to persist no matter how hard she has tried in the past to stop it. However, her work has not gone unrewarded. She can rest easy with the satisfaction of knowing that she has saved over two hundred of her favorite animals in her lifetime by doing work that she seems to enjoy. I just hope for her and future pigs’ sake that people will start to think a little more before they purchase an animal that they will not be able to care for.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 12:03:23)
Related animal: Pot Belly Pig
Lil’ Orphan Hammies
We recently took a class trip to a place in Solvang where a woman named Sue Parkinson adopts the pot-bellied pigs of people who cannot take care of them after they get to be too large. She currently is in the care of over ninety pigs and has recently decided that she can no longer accept new ones. The very idea of why a place like this should need to exist in the first place is puzzling. Why is it that so many people are buying pot-bellied pigs as pets when they are young, without doing any kind of research into what they are going to grow up to be like. Sue told us that people are told by the piglet solicitors that they will not grow much more, and they will stay the size of a small dog. However, if anyone was actually considering purchasing a pig as a pet, you would think that they would want to do the minute amount of research that it would take to discover that their pig could potentially grow to be three hundred pounds. Instead, they purchase the piglet on what would seem to be an impulse buy and feed it for a year or so before they realize they have a problem. Sue told us that to make matters even worse, there are a few old ladies who live near by who by hordes of piglets at a time, simply because they think they are cute. When the piglets grow up, the ladies try to get rid of fifty or more full grown pigs all at once. Sue explained to us that she helped in one of these situations years ago, adopting almost fifty pigs at once, but she no longer is capable of saving so many. In many ways I felt bad for Sue. Here was an incredibly nice woman with a big heart who wanted nothing more than to give these pigs a new chance at a good life and to show them love. I think that lately she has come to a realization that this problem is continuing to persist no matter how hard she has tried in the past to stop it. However, her work has not gone unrewarded. She can rest easy with the satisfaction of knowing that she has saved over two hundred of her favorite animals in her lifetime by doing work that she seems to enjoy. I just hope for her and future pigs’ sake that people will start to think a little more before they purchase an animal that they will not be able to care for.
| 
A distinguished creature |
Reflection: Speciesism and Animal Rights
Lil Orphan Hammies
By Tessa Tapscott (05/13/13 23:18:29)
Related animals: Human, Pig
I very much enjoyed my experience at the pot-bellied pig sanctuary. While the pigs were not only adorable, they were far more friendly than I anticipated. My only other experience with pigs was at a farm oriented summer camp where we were allowed to feed carrots to massive pigs through bars. Looking back at it now, I assume several of those pigs ended up as food at some point. I recall the councelors instilling in me a healthy sense of fear that the pigs might bite off our hands thinking that we were offering them as food. I think my smaller size may have also contributed to my fear and my perhaps skewed memory that paints these animals as massive drooling, half-blind beasts that would gladly tear off my appendages if given the chance.
The pigs at Lil’ Orphan Hammies were none of these things to my relief. While I still kept my guard up around the ones that were known nibblers, I felt comfortable sitting on the ground with them, brushing them and photographing them. We learned about each of their different personalities and about where some of them came from. Many were once sold to owners whom had fallen for the “tea-cup pig” trend that is sweeping the nation. The Internet is littered with admittedly adorable pictures of tiny piglets that can fit inside teacups or be dressed in doll clothing posing with a potted plant or some stuffed animals. Breeders give the impression that the pigs will remain tiny through out the rest of their lives, the perfect pet for an apartment dweller. However, as the owner of Lil’ Orphan Hammies seared into our brains, “mini pigs”, “teacup pigs” and “micro-mini pigs” do not exist. They will grow up and they will be pot-bellied pigs that are generally the size of a large, overweight golden retriever. I was disgusted to hear about how breeders stunted the growth of the pigs by starving them and depriving them of essential nutrients and even direct sunlight. It made me glad that there were people out there whom cared enough to begin pig sanctuaries for the creatures that grew past the bounds of apartment living, though I think it would be much better if people were more well-informed and did not buy such pigs in the first place.
I spent sometime sitting with one of the pigs in the outer enclosures, whom was not as used to humans, but still allowed me to sit near her and have a chat. Her name was “Icky” or “Ucky” due to a strange skin problem she had that caused her to loose patches of hair all over her body. I attempted to connect with her through animal communication and I asked her how she felt about her name. She told me she did not like her name, but I did not get a response as to what her name should be, but I asked if it were okay if I called her “Matilda” instead. She guessed that would be fine. She seemed bored, but enjoyed our communication, so I told her I would try to contact her again some other time.
I enjoyed learning about all the different pigs and I admire how dedicated Susan (the owner) is to helping save the pigs and making sure they can live out their days in the highest quality of life. I hope to spread word about the pigs, hopefully this fad will fade and there will be far fewer orphaned hammies.
[Write Comment]
By Tessa Tapscott (05/13/13 23:18:29)
Related animals: Human, Pig
I very much enjoyed my experience at the pot-bellied pig sanctuary. While the pigs were not only adorable, they were far more friendly than I anticipated. My only other experience with pigs was at a farm oriented summer camp where we were allowed to feed carrots to massive pigs through bars. Looking back at it now, I assume several of those pigs ended up as food at some point. I recall the councelors instilling in me a healthy sense of fear that the pigs might bite off our hands thinking that we were offering them as food. I think my smaller size may have also contributed to my fear and my perhaps skewed memory that paints these animals as massive drooling, half-blind beasts that would gladly tear off my appendages if given the chance.
The pigs at Lil’ Orphan Hammies were none of these things to my relief. While I still kept my guard up around the ones that were known nibblers, I felt comfortable sitting on the ground with them, brushing them and photographing them. We learned about each of their different personalities and about where some of them came from. Many were once sold to owners whom had fallen for the “tea-cup pig” trend that is sweeping the nation. The Internet is littered with admittedly adorable pictures of tiny piglets that can fit inside teacups or be dressed in doll clothing posing with a potted plant or some stuffed animals. Breeders give the impression that the pigs will remain tiny through out the rest of their lives, the perfect pet for an apartment dweller. However, as the owner of Lil’ Orphan Hammies seared into our brains, “mini pigs”, “teacup pigs” and “micro-mini pigs” do not exist. They will grow up and they will be pot-bellied pigs that are generally the size of a large, overweight golden retriever. I was disgusted to hear about how breeders stunted the growth of the pigs by starving them and depriving them of essential nutrients and even direct sunlight. It made me glad that there were people out there whom cared enough to begin pig sanctuaries for the creatures that grew past the bounds of apartment living, though I think it would be much better if people were more well-informed and did not buy such pigs in the first place.
I spent sometime sitting with one of the pigs in the outer enclosures, whom was not as used to humans, but still allowed me to sit near her and have a chat. Her name was “Icky” or “Ucky” due to a strange skin problem she had that caused her to loose patches of hair all over her body. I attempted to connect with her through animal communication and I asked her how she felt about her name. She told me she did not like her name, but I did not get a response as to what her name should be, but I asked if it were okay if I called her “Matilda” instead. She guessed that would be fine. She seemed bored, but enjoyed our communication, so I told her I would try to contact her again some other time.
I enjoyed learning about all the different pigs and I admire how dedicated Susan (the owner) is to helping save the pigs and making sure they can live out their days in the highest quality of life. I hope to spread word about the pigs, hopefully this fad will fade and there will be far fewer orphaned hammies.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Other Related Research
Lil Orphan Hammies
By Natalie Croak (06/08/13 19:23:19)
Related animal: Pig
Today we visited Lil Orphan Hammies, a teacup pig sanctuary in Solvang. I remembered hearing about the teacup pig craze when I was in high school but didn't think that it was a very popular thing. While I was there I learned that breeders will often lie about how big a full sized teacup pig can get. They will say that they will only be 20-30 pounds when in reality they are 100 pounds when full sized. Breeders tell the owners to give them too little food in order to stunt their growth, but once the woman who runs the sanctuary would allow them to eat normally they would jump up in weight. I couldn't believe that breeders were purposely telling people to keep their pets malnourished in order to keep their business going. Since the pigs get much bigger than they are marketed as often people who live in apartments realize that they are unable to care for an animal that is that large. As a result they have to give up their pigs to the sanctuary.
I really admired how the woman who ran the sanctuary donated so much of her time and money to helping the pigs. Along with taking care of the pigs she also works on online campaigns to find breeders falsely advertising about the pigs and gets them shut down.
While we were at the sanctuary we wandered around the pen area interacting with the pigs. My favorite was a buck-toothed pig named Princess who let me feed her animal crackers and scratch her belly. It was also really interesting to see how big Valentine was, the sanctuary's only full-sized pig. I've been around pigs before because my cousins were in FFA but Valentine was massive. Despite this though he definitely was a gentle giant and appreciated kisses.
[Write Comment]
By Natalie Croak (06/08/13 19:23:19)
Related animal: Pig
Today we visited Lil Orphan Hammies, a teacup pig sanctuary in Solvang. I remembered hearing about the teacup pig craze when I was in high school but didn't think that it was a very popular thing. While I was there I learned that breeders will often lie about how big a full sized teacup pig can get. They will say that they will only be 20-30 pounds when in reality they are 100 pounds when full sized. Breeders tell the owners to give them too little food in order to stunt their growth, but once the woman who runs the sanctuary would allow them to eat normally they would jump up in weight. I couldn't believe that breeders were purposely telling people to keep their pets malnourished in order to keep their business going. Since the pigs get much bigger than they are marketed as often people who live in apartments realize that they are unable to care for an animal that is that large. As a result they have to give up their pigs to the sanctuary.
I really admired how the woman who ran the sanctuary donated so much of her time and money to helping the pigs. Along with taking care of the pigs she also works on online campaigns to find breeders falsely advertising about the pigs and gets them shut down.
While we were at the sanctuary we wandered around the pen area interacting with the pigs. My favorite was a buck-toothed pig named Princess who let me feed her animal crackers and scratch her belly. It was also really interesting to see how big Valentine was, the sanctuary's only full-sized pig. I've been around pigs before because my cousins were in FFA but Valentine was massive. Despite this though he definitely was a gentle giant and appreciated kisses.
Marissa and Valentine | 
farm dog |
bonding with Princess | 
pig smile |
Lil Orphan Hammies and Sedgwick Reserve
By Alexandra Glaser (06/08/09 13:39:03)
Related animals: Bat, Pot-Bellied Pig
I would like to take the time now to reflect upon the various trips we took together as a class in an attempt to collaborate with animals.
Lil Orphan Hammies: Pot Bellied Pigs
After getting lost (a first of what would become a ritual for any pre-trip drive), we arrived at Lil Orphan Hammies in Solvang. I was blown away by the sheer amount of pigs that were at this farm/home. I was blown even more away by the amount of pig paraphernalia the owner had in her home! Regardless, the pigs were fascinating creatures. They were massive! I was amazed at the owner's ability to distinguish each individual pig out of 98 in total. I found that more than anything, I was interested in learning the owners story and how she came into possession of so many pigs. I realize in hindsight that my attempt to collaborate with the animals was limited. Although I enjoyed petting and scratching their ears, I did not do anything with aesthetic intentions in mind. Perhaps because this was our first excursion, I had not yet gotten into the mindset of collaboration and perhaps I was still unsure of what I was in store for. I did not yet know how to approach animals in a different manner than how I had always done. Thus, although this trip was enjoyable, my aesthetic outcome was minimal.
Sedgwick Reserve
What a great trip. I had not been able to go to Santa Cruz Island (although I did get a chance to go the next weekend with some friends!) so this was my first overnight immersion. We began the trip with a hike up a hillside and after getting the burrs out of my shoes, socks and jeans, Hannah led us in a meditation to center ourselves. Finding out own center would hopefully lead us into being open to communication with animals (something that we had learned from the animal communicator and various texts). Although no animals ran right up to our group, finding my center in such a beautiful context prepared me for the rest of the trip and opened up my channels for subsequent collaboration.
For me the most successful and memorable experience from the trip came late at night, after dinner and after many had fallen asleep. A group of us stayed awake by the fireside and after much deliberation decided that what we really needed was a night hike. Under the full moon, the canyon behind the ranch was illuminated and seemed otherworldly. Just as we walked past a small pond, a wave of rustling came back to us. We paused and unconsciously we began to communicate with the mystery swarm of animals (which i believe now to be either bats or birds). Whatever it was that we did to communicate with them (whether it be walking or scuffling), they communicated back, on cue with a mass of movement. A true interspecies collaboration was established.
[Write Comment]
By Alexandra Glaser (06/08/09 13:39:03)
Related animals: Bat, Pot-Bellied Pig
I would like to take the time now to reflect upon the various trips we took together as a class in an attempt to collaborate with animals.
Lil Orphan Hammies: Pot Bellied Pigs
After getting lost (a first of what would become a ritual for any pre-trip drive), we arrived at Lil Orphan Hammies in Solvang. I was blown away by the sheer amount of pigs that were at this farm/home. I was blown even more away by the amount of pig paraphernalia the owner had in her home! Regardless, the pigs were fascinating creatures. They were massive! I was amazed at the owner's ability to distinguish each individual pig out of 98 in total. I found that more than anything, I was interested in learning the owners story and how she came into possession of so many pigs. I realize in hindsight that my attempt to collaborate with the animals was limited. Although I enjoyed petting and scratching their ears, I did not do anything with aesthetic intentions in mind. Perhaps because this was our first excursion, I had not yet gotten into the mindset of collaboration and perhaps I was still unsure of what I was in store for. I did not yet know how to approach animals in a different manner than how I had always done. Thus, although this trip was enjoyable, my aesthetic outcome was minimal.
Sedgwick Reserve
What a great trip. I had not been able to go to Santa Cruz Island (although I did get a chance to go the next weekend with some friends!) so this was my first overnight immersion. We began the trip with a hike up a hillside and after getting the burrs out of my shoes, socks and jeans, Hannah led us in a meditation to center ourselves. Finding out own center would hopefully lead us into being open to communication with animals (something that we had learned from the animal communicator and various texts). Although no animals ran right up to our group, finding my center in such a beautiful context prepared me for the rest of the trip and opened up my channels for subsequent collaboration.
For me the most successful and memorable experience from the trip came late at night, after dinner and after many had fallen asleep. A group of us stayed awake by the fireside and after much deliberation decided that what we really needed was a night hike. Under the full moon, the canyon behind the ranch was illuminated and seemed otherworldly. Just as we walked past a small pond, a wave of rustling came back to us. We paused and unconsciously we began to communicate with the mystery swarm of animals (which i believe now to be either bats or birds). Whatever it was that we did to communicate with them (whether it be walking or scuffling), they communicated back, on cue with a mass of movement. A true interspecies collaboration was established.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Lil Orphan Hammies Trip
By Stephanie Vasquez (05/10/09 15:51:03)
Related animal: Pig
(Written on April 11th)
Our first field trip was on Tuesday; I had no idea what to expect. I noticed that I was very timid in approaching the pigs at first. I didn’t grow up around animals, not even a dog or cat. I became more comfortable after realizing that these poor, delicate creatures meant no harm. Their grunts may have sounded “angry,” but who is to say that a loud, abrupt sound means “anger” to the pigs? In fact, who is to say these pigs know “anger” the way we know it? Maybe they were exercising their vocal cords. They aren’t humans… So anyway, I walked around and found a lone pig. I petted the pig, and when my hand got closer to its belly, as if by instinctive reaction, it laid down and let me rub his belly. I rubbed the pigs belly for about 10 minutes before realizing that it had fallen asleep. I soon left this pig and watched the owner of the farm feed all the pigs. Although an arduous task, it seemed like she enjoyed what she did every day. She really cared for these pigs. Suddenly, I felt something nudge the back of my calf. I turned around, and staring up at me was a small white pig. I bent down to pet it and then moved aside. I figured that the only reason it had nudged me was because I was standing in its way. Instead of walking past me, it just stared up at me. I moved over to another part of the farm, and this pig started following me. I continued to pet her, but it wasn’t long before I realized our trip was just about over. Perhaps some day I will go back if I can think of a project to do with these pigs.
[Write Comment]
By Stephanie Vasquez (05/10/09 15:51:03)
Related animal: Pig
(Written on April 11th)
Our first field trip was on Tuesday; I had no idea what to expect. I noticed that I was very timid in approaching the pigs at first. I didn’t grow up around animals, not even a dog or cat. I became more comfortable after realizing that these poor, delicate creatures meant no harm. Their grunts may have sounded “angry,” but who is to say that a loud, abrupt sound means “anger” to the pigs? In fact, who is to say these pigs know “anger” the way we know it? Maybe they were exercising their vocal cords. They aren’t humans… So anyway, I walked around and found a lone pig. I petted the pig, and when my hand got closer to its belly, as if by instinctive reaction, it laid down and let me rub his belly. I rubbed the pigs belly for about 10 minutes before realizing that it had fallen asleep. I soon left this pig and watched the owner of the farm feed all the pigs. Although an arduous task, it seemed like she enjoyed what she did every day. She really cared for these pigs. Suddenly, I felt something nudge the back of my calf. I turned around, and staring up at me was a small white pig. I bent down to pet it and then moved aside. I figured that the only reason it had nudged me was because I was standing in its way. Instead of walking past me, it just stared up at me. I moved over to another part of the farm, and this pig started following me. I continued to pet her, but it wasn’t long before I realized our trip was just about over. Perhaps some day I will go back if I can think of a project to do with these pigs.
The Lone Pig | 
|
Sleeping after a good belly rub. | 
The white pig that followed me at the end of our trip. |
Lil Orphan Hammies Trip
By Serena Zahler (04/29/10 15:00:49)
Related animal: Pig
While visiting the pot belly pig sanctuary, I realized that we as humans in Art 130 may want to collaborate with other species, but that doesn't mean they are interested in us. Andrea and I thought we would create a series of Mud Paintings after the success of the dog/human mud paintings. This idea was unsuccessful as the pigs were frightened by the paper and didn't want to step on anything, but solid mud ground. Maybe the pigs instinctively knew we had brought butcher paper to create our mud paintings... The Hammies experience definitely made me take a more non-human animal perspective when thinking about collaboration. Just because I think an animal will be interested in my collaborative idea doesn't mean they actually will be interested. I want to use this experience and create concepts that are more geared to collaborations that will be more beneficial to the other species. If I do this, I believe that the collaboration will be much more successful in that I will get to collaborate, create art, and learn about the other species on their terms, while they get a benefit or enjoyment out of their interaction with me.
[Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (04/29/10 15:00:49)
Related animal: Pig
While visiting the pot belly pig sanctuary, I realized that we as humans in Art 130 may want to collaborate with other species, but that doesn't mean they are interested in us. Andrea and I thought we would create a series of Mud Paintings after the success of the dog/human mud paintings. This idea was unsuccessful as the pigs were frightened by the paper and didn't want to step on anything, but solid mud ground. Maybe the pigs instinctively knew we had brought butcher paper to create our mud paintings... The Hammies experience definitely made me take a more non-human animal perspective when thinking about collaboration. Just because I think an animal will be interested in my collaborative idea doesn't mean they actually will be interested. I want to use this experience and create concepts that are more geared to collaborations that will be more beneficial to the other species. If I do this, I believe that the collaboration will be much more successful in that I will get to collaborate, create art, and learn about the other species on their terms, while they get a benefit or enjoyment out of their interaction with me.
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Reflection: Animal Communication
Lil' Hammies
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:24:38)
Related animal: Pig
The pigs were a great animal to interact with, they definitely have their own eccentric personalities. Petuna was one crazy pig, but still enjoyable. It was great to have them follow us around and to experience a little bit of their lives. I had a good moment with one pig, I forgot his name, but it was the one that she said was afraid of touch. I noticed he had come around to the other side of his little dwelling and so I went over and he didn't seem scared. So I sat down and he came very close to me. I didn't want to touch him because of what we were told, but he didn't mind sitting so close to me and we did that for a while till someone walked by us and scared him off. He kept looking at me as he walked away though. I wonder what happened to this animal, but I'm glad we could share a connection since it seems like he didn't experience this very often. I definitely enjoyed visiting this place and being around animals I haven't met before. Also, Valentine is probably the biggest animal I have ever seen, that was an experience all in itself.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:24:38)
Related animal: Pig
The pigs were a great animal to interact with, they definitely have their own eccentric personalities. Petuna was one crazy pig, but still enjoyable. It was great to have them follow us around and to experience a little bit of their lives. I had a good moment with one pig, I forgot his name, but it was the one that she said was afraid of touch. I noticed he had come around to the other side of his little dwelling and so I went over and he didn't seem scared. So I sat down and he came very close to me. I didn't want to touch him because of what we were told, but he didn't mind sitting so close to me and we did that for a while till someone walked by us and scared him off. He kept looking at me as he walked away though. I wonder what happened to this animal, but I'm glad we could share a connection since it seems like he didn't experience this very often. I definitely enjoyed visiting this place and being around animals I haven't met before. Also, Valentine is probably the biggest animal I have ever seen, that was an experience all in itself.
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Reflection: Other Related Research
Lil' Orphan Hammies
By Travis Jepson (04/27/10 12:47:31)
Related animal: Pot Belly Pig
I found the experience at the potbelly pig farm to be very interesting. I had interacted with one potbelly many years ago but it was nothing like having 50 pigs in one location. I decided to keep my video camera rolling the entire time so I could document the trip. When we first arrived we were suggested to go to the older pigs which had been around people more.
This perhaps was not the best idea, as the pigs there seemed to be very anxious. One of the potbelly's especially was very loud and clearly was agitated at our entrance into his den. I quickly learned the best way to touch/interact with the pigs was to NOT put your hand out as you would with a dog to allow the pig to sniff. Due to the poor eyesight of the pigs they would most likely assume that your hand was food and try to take a bite out of you. The best idea was to go behind the head and scratch the ears. I found this worked well with all the pigs that I did not have to approach. I did my best to come up to the pigs in a non-threatening manner and would get down to their level by squatting down. In several cases, I found that when I was on their level the pigs would come to me if I had my hand outstretched. Though I am not sure if it helped, I made sure to blink and keep a low breathing rate so it would provide a calm environment for the pigs. Though I am not sure if it helped, it allowed me to get more comfortable with the pigs.
In several cases I was able to start off scratching behind the pigs ears and they would allow me to continue and they seemed to like the attention. On three occasions, I actually had the pig suddenly slam themselves down on the ground so they could get their bellies rubbed. It was funny yet surprised when they did this because I realized how much weight these pigs carried. I felt these interactions were good because there was no food involved and the pigs came to me solely for the human contact. One of the more massive pigs "Oreo" actually came up to me and pulled up my jean leg, somewhat strange but I was thankful she did not decide to take a bite out of me.
Hopefully I will upload some of the video I got from this experience, it was overall very entertaining and I was glad I was able to spend so much time there.
[Write Comment]
By Travis Jepson (04/27/10 12:47:31)
Related animal: Pot Belly Pig
I found the experience at the potbelly pig farm to be very interesting. I had interacted with one potbelly many years ago but it was nothing like having 50 pigs in one location. I decided to keep my video camera rolling the entire time so I could document the trip. When we first arrived we were suggested to go to the older pigs which had been around people more.
This perhaps was not the best idea, as the pigs there seemed to be very anxious. One of the potbelly's especially was very loud and clearly was agitated at our entrance into his den. I quickly learned the best way to touch/interact with the pigs was to NOT put your hand out as you would with a dog to allow the pig to sniff. Due to the poor eyesight of the pigs they would most likely assume that your hand was food and try to take a bite out of you. The best idea was to go behind the head and scratch the ears. I found this worked well with all the pigs that I did not have to approach. I did my best to come up to the pigs in a non-threatening manner and would get down to their level by squatting down. In several cases, I found that when I was on their level the pigs would come to me if I had my hand outstretched. Though I am not sure if it helped, I made sure to blink and keep a low breathing rate so it would provide a calm environment for the pigs. Though I am not sure if it helped, it allowed me to get more comfortable with the pigs.
In several cases I was able to start off scratching behind the pigs ears and they would allow me to continue and they seemed to like the attention. On three occasions, I actually had the pig suddenly slam themselves down on the ground so they could get their bellies rubbed. It was funny yet surprised when they did this because I realized how much weight these pigs carried. I felt these interactions were good because there was no food involved and the pigs came to me solely for the human contact. One of the more massive pigs "Oreo" actually came up to me and pulled up my jean leg, somewhat strange but I was thankful she did not decide to take a bite out of me.
Hopefully I will upload some of the video I got from this experience, it was overall very entertaining and I was glad I was able to spend so much time there.
[Write Comment]
Other: Animal Communication
Lil' Orphan Hammies
By Lillian Shanahan (05/21/10 13:39:00)
Related animal: Pig
Our class visit to the pot belly pig pen was intense. Understandably most of the pigs that were there, are there because they are old, injured or dying. But still, watching the pigs who couldn't stand up because their shoulder blades were destroyed was hard. Their grunts sounded like screams of pain. I tried to get some to interact with me but the most that happened was that I scratched their belly or behind their ears.
I thought i might use a ball but the lady of the place told me that they don't play with balls- but the dogs certainly did. I had a fun time playing with them- though at the end the dog got tired of me and wouldn't play anymore so i gave up.
overall I was amazed at their size and their folds of skin, I wish I had brought by sketch book to draw them because their skin is so great.
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (05/21/10 13:39:00)
Related animal: Pig
Our class visit to the pot belly pig pen was intense. Understandably most of the pigs that were there, are there because they are old, injured or dying. But still, watching the pigs who couldn't stand up because their shoulder blades were destroyed was hard. Their grunts sounded like screams of pain. I tried to get some to interact with me but the most that happened was that I scratched their belly or behind their ears.
I thought i might use a ball but the lady of the place told me that they don't play with balls- but the dogs certainly did. I had a fun time playing with them- though at the end the dog got tired of me and wouldn't play anymore so i gave up.
overall I was amazed at their size and their folds of skin, I wish I had brought by sketch book to draw them because their skin is so great.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Other Related Research
Little Orphan Hammies
By Shanti Harris (06/08/09 21:17:16)
Little Orphan Hammies
Interacting with the pot-bellied pigs was an amazing experience. The pigs varied in size, color and personality. Many of the pigs loved to have their bellies rubbed. They made it clear that they did not want their belly rub to stop and made noises/ jerked movements as a signal to humans.
I sat with one of the pigs for a while and rubbed it's belly continuously. The pig seemed to be in heaven, and did not move a muscle as I stroked its coarse fur and soft belly. The motions of moving one's hand and massaging the belly seems to have a very calming effect on the pigs. Similarly, humans (infants) enjoy belly rubs, so there seems to be an interspecies correlation with the act of rubbing the belly.
The following pictures some of the pot-bellied pigs at Little Orphan Hammies in various positions.
[Write Comment]
By Shanti Harris (06/08/09 21:17:16)
Little Orphan Hammies
Interacting with the pot-bellied pigs was an amazing experience. The pigs varied in size, color and personality. Many of the pigs loved to have their bellies rubbed. They made it clear that they did not want their belly rub to stop and made noises/ jerked movements as a signal to humans.
I sat with one of the pigs for a while and rubbed it's belly continuously. The pig seemed to be in heaven, and did not move a muscle as I stroked its coarse fur and soft belly. The motions of moving one's hand and massaging the belly seems to have a very calming effect on the pigs. Similarly, humans (infants) enjoy belly rubs, so there seems to be an interspecies correlation with the act of rubbing the belly.
The following pictures some of the pot-bellied pigs at Little Orphan Hammies in various positions.
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Reflection: Aesthetic Expressions of Non-Human Animals
Little Orphan Hammies
By Mary Zdybel (04/25/10 23:29:49)
Related animal: Pot-Bellied Pig
I was super excited to take our class trip to the Little Orphan Hammies Pig Sanctuary; not only was it my first field trip in my four years of college, but I was interested to go back to my days on living on a ranch and pet some pigs! However the pig sanctuary was not exactly what I had expected. I suppose I should have done my research on pot-bellied pigs and that it was my own fault when I was taken aback to find these massive beasts awaiting me. There were a few things that disconcerted me. Firstly, I expected there to be a lot more mud. I have always been under the impression that pigs loves to play in the mud and that this made them happy (someone even mentioned mud castles?) But the ground seemed to be mostly dry and like clay, not ideal for rubbing one's snout on. Second, many of these pigs seemed like they were so sad, with large open wounds and tears in their eyes. I appreciated that these pigs were very old and many of them crippled, but this 'sanctuary' seemed more reminiscent of a pig retirement home to me. Just as I view retirement homes as horrible but necessary, I know that these pigs are better off where they are now than suffering more somewhere else. Maybe if there were less pigs requiring the attention of one woman they would be able to live a happier life. I kind of saw this overcrowded pig farm as a microcosm for the population problem we are experiencing as humans; there are just too many of us and it is causing a problem.
On a lighter note, I promised myself I would make friends with a pig during our trip, so I tried to do just that. I attempted different ways of approaching the pigs, trying to talk to them in different piggy-dialects. They didn't seem to much appreciate my pig talk, nor did they think it was fun when i surprised them from behind. There was a lot of squealing involved, on both of our parts. I especially loved the giant black and white spotted pig that was apparently named Oreo, but I had rightfully dubbed "Cow Pig" I wanted to put a saddle on its back and get an authentic piggy-back ride! Another Hammy that really struck my interest was a flirtatious blondie with a shoe fetish named Dennis. He really loved to rub and nibble on your shoes, or tickle you by tasting your pants. It was very interesting to me because I didn't think such a large animal could have such a tender and loving touch.
[Write Comment]
By Mary Zdybel (04/25/10 23:29:49)
Related animal: Pot-Bellied Pig
I was super excited to take our class trip to the Little Orphan Hammies Pig Sanctuary; not only was it my first field trip in my four years of college, but I was interested to go back to my days on living on a ranch and pet some pigs! However the pig sanctuary was not exactly what I had expected. I suppose I should have done my research on pot-bellied pigs and that it was my own fault when I was taken aback to find these massive beasts awaiting me. There were a few things that disconcerted me. Firstly, I expected there to be a lot more mud. I have always been under the impression that pigs loves to play in the mud and that this made them happy (someone even mentioned mud castles?) But the ground seemed to be mostly dry and like clay, not ideal for rubbing one's snout on. Second, many of these pigs seemed like they were so sad, with large open wounds and tears in their eyes. I appreciated that these pigs were very old and many of them crippled, but this 'sanctuary' seemed more reminiscent of a pig retirement home to me. Just as I view retirement homes as horrible but necessary, I know that these pigs are better off where they are now than suffering more somewhere else. Maybe if there were less pigs requiring the attention of one woman they would be able to live a happier life. I kind of saw this overcrowded pig farm as a microcosm for the population problem we are experiencing as humans; there are just too many of us and it is causing a problem.
On a lighter note, I promised myself I would make friends with a pig during our trip, so I tried to do just that. I attempted different ways of approaching the pigs, trying to talk to them in different piggy-dialects. They didn't seem to much appreciate my pig talk, nor did they think it was fun when i surprised them from behind. There was a lot of squealing involved, on both of our parts. I especially loved the giant black and white spotted pig that was apparently named Oreo, but I had rightfully dubbed "Cow Pig" I wanted to put a saddle on its back and get an authentic piggy-back ride! Another Hammy that really struck my interest was a flirtatious blondie with a shoe fetish named Dennis. He really loved to rub and nibble on your shoes, or tickle you by tasting your pants. It was very interesting to me because I didn't think such a large animal could have such a tender and loving touch.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Little Orphan Hammies
By Alli Harrod (05/02/10 02:04:07)
Related animal: Pig
Little Orphan Hammies
Little Orphan Hammies was an entertaining way to both observe and interact with pigs. I am somewhat familiar with pigs because I had a pet (small) potbelly pig growing up and many of my friends in 4H raised pigs to show. These pigs were different from the ones that I am used to, however, because they were in large groups interacting together at the ranch. It was interesting to observe and interact with their lifestyles and see how they interacted with one another. Their "habitat" at the ranch had many various housing structures, troughs, forts, and roaming areas. I spent some time following certain pigs around in each area and was especially interested in their use of forts. I followed a pig on his/her way into a fort to see if the pig exhibited any sort of play behavior, sort of like a child with a fort, but the pig just seemed a little weary of me and then slept. It was unfortunate that many of the pigs seemed pretty weary of humans. Two pigs were main instigators that caused trouble amongst the other pigs and had to be put in a "time out" pen so that they wouldn't wreak any more havoc. There is certainly certain tonal inflections and body movements of communication between the woman who cared for the pigs and the pigs themselves. The pigs certainly knew that they were going to be put in a "time out" pen and seemed to know why (for their bratty behavior toward the other pigs.) It was quite funny for me to think of it this way. After those pigs were separated, they did not really interact with anyone but themselves. I met two particular pigs that were especially friendly. One pig was pink and seemed to like shoes a whole lot. He/She continuously rubbed his/her face on my feet and followed me and some other students around for a little while. The other friendly pig was extremely large with patches and seemed to want people to pet him/her a lot. We pet his/her belly for a while and he/she seemed content. In all, Little Orphan Hammies was a fun place to visit and an overall great field trip. I will add a picture of one of the hammies from my phone after I install a driver software for my phone to upload the pictures to my computer...
[Write Comment]
By Alli Harrod (05/02/10 02:04:07)
Related animal: Pig
Little Orphan Hammies
Little Orphan Hammies was an entertaining way to both observe and interact with pigs. I am somewhat familiar with pigs because I had a pet (small) potbelly pig growing up and many of my friends in 4H raised pigs to show. These pigs were different from the ones that I am used to, however, because they were in large groups interacting together at the ranch. It was interesting to observe and interact with their lifestyles and see how they interacted with one another. Their "habitat" at the ranch had many various housing structures, troughs, forts, and roaming areas. I spent some time following certain pigs around in each area and was especially interested in their use of forts. I followed a pig on his/her way into a fort to see if the pig exhibited any sort of play behavior, sort of like a child with a fort, but the pig just seemed a little weary of me and then slept. It was unfortunate that many of the pigs seemed pretty weary of humans. Two pigs were main instigators that caused trouble amongst the other pigs and had to be put in a "time out" pen so that they wouldn't wreak any more havoc. There is certainly certain tonal inflections and body movements of communication between the woman who cared for the pigs and the pigs themselves. The pigs certainly knew that they were going to be put in a "time out" pen and seemed to know why (for their bratty behavior toward the other pigs.) It was quite funny for me to think of it this way. After those pigs were separated, they did not really interact with anyone but themselves. I met two particular pigs that were especially friendly. One pig was pink and seemed to like shoes a whole lot. He/She continuously rubbed his/her face on my feet and followed me and some other students around for a little while. The other friendly pig was extremely large with patches and seemed to want people to pet him/her a lot. We pet his/her belly for a while and he/she seemed content. In all, Little Orphan Hammies was a fun place to visit and an overall great field trip. I will add a picture of one of the hammies from my phone after I install a driver software for my phone to upload the pictures to my computer...
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Little Orphan Hammies
By Sarina Martinez (05/13/10 12:24:18)
Related animal: Pig
While at the pig farm I didn't really feel a connection with any of the pigs. I felt it was very hard to connect with them. Every time I tried to approach one it would run away.
I tried different methods of approaching them and neither worked. I tried to sneak up on them, moving very slowly and only moving when they weren't looking. But as soon as they saw me moving they would take a step back. I also tried to move over to them in a calm, submissive manner. Trying to let them know that they were the boss and that my actions were determined by their acceptance of my presence.
Realizing that I couldn't interact with them I turned my attention to their interactions with each other. There didn't seem to be any visible hierarchy. I thought there might have been an "alpha male," but in my time being there I couldn't see a clear one. Also there didn't seem to be any type of community, which I found odd.
All in all I learned more about those pigs than expected.
[Write Comment]
By Sarina Martinez (05/13/10 12:24:18)
Related animal: Pig
While at the pig farm I didn't really feel a connection with any of the pigs. I felt it was very hard to connect with them. Every time I tried to approach one it would run away.
I tried different methods of approaching them and neither worked. I tried to sneak up on them, moving very slowly and only moving when they weren't looking. But as soon as they saw me moving they would take a step back. I also tried to move over to them in a calm, submissive manner. Trying to let them know that they were the boss and that my actions were determined by their acceptance of my presence.
Realizing that I couldn't interact with them I turned my attention to their interactions with each other. There didn't seem to be any visible hierarchy. I thought there might have been an "alpha male," but in my time being there I couldn't see a clear one. Also there didn't seem to be any type of community, which I found odd.
All in all I learned more about those pigs than expected.
[Write Comment]
Local Excursion Documentation
By Montana McLeod (05/05/14 11:29:55)
The goats at Coal Oil Point were much more fascinating creatures than I anticipated. There is something about goats in the way they stare at you with their rectangular eyes. They can maintain eye contact with you and simply stare at you regardless of the emotions you project to them. At first it felt like a feeling of indifference, but later it seemed like they were looking at me trying to figure me out first. I spent a good amount of time with the two-day-old goats, watching them as they continued to figure out how to use their legs. At one point, the mama goat pushed one of her babies closer to me with her nose. I tried befriending her before I picked her up and placed her on my lap. The goat sat awkwardly with its legs sprawled out across my lap, not quite sure how it preferred to be situated with less than 48 hours under her belt. Her heart was racing really fast at first, and I wanted to make her feel comfortable and safe. I did the breathing exercises that we learned from Janelle and calmly pet the goat’s soft fur. After some time and extensive focus on this, I could feel a change in her heart rate. I do strongly believe that an animal will respond to your tension or sense of tranquility. With the consistent stroking motion and pressure from my stomach, as it would rise and fall, it felt like I was able to mollify her sense of fear and anxiety.
[Write Comment]
By Montana McLeod (05/05/14 11:29:55)
The goats at Coal Oil Point were much more fascinating creatures than I anticipated. There is something about goats in the way they stare at you with their rectangular eyes. They can maintain eye contact with you and simply stare at you regardless of the emotions you project to them. At first it felt like a feeling of indifference, but later it seemed like they were looking at me trying to figure me out first. I spent a good amount of time with the two-day-old goats, watching them as they continued to figure out how to use their legs. At one point, the mama goat pushed one of her babies closer to me with her nose. I tried befriending her before I picked her up and placed her on my lap. The goat sat awkwardly with its legs sprawled out across my lap, not quite sure how it preferred to be situated with less than 48 hours under her belt. Her heart was racing really fast at first, and I wanted to make her feel comfortable and safe. I did the breathing exercises that we learned from Janelle and calmly pet the goat’s soft fur. After some time and extensive focus on this, I could feel a change in her heart rate. I do strongly believe that an animal will respond to your tension or sense of tranquility. With the consistent stroking motion and pressure from my stomach, as it would rise and fall, it felt like I was able to mollify her sense of fear and anxiety.
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Local Excursion Documentation 5/5
By Brianna Acuesta (05/14/14 07:49:22)
Related animal: Goat
At Coal Oil Point Reserve, we met the wonderful manager of the goats that are housed there. The goats proved to be even more wonderful, as there were kids that were ready to play no matter how young they were. My past experiences with goats has always been very plain; they seem to want to be petted and play, but their ultimate goal is food and sometimes they can be skittish and off-putting. At the Reserve, I was able to have a completely different experience with the goats. The kids were okay with being held and I loved holding them because they felt familiar, like soft puppies whose limbs stick out because they are floppy and comfortable the way they are. Through the cuteness of the kids, I began to view the older goats differently because I generally saw them as unattractive and too large. Now, seeing what they look like as babies reminds me that they too are young and still looking to play. I wish they kept the soft fur and the uncertain leg movements, but I suppose growing older means losing the soft hair and floppiness. I want to incorporate the goats somehow into my final project, however I'm struggling to come up with a creative and feasible way.
[Write Comment]
By Brianna Acuesta (05/14/14 07:49:22)
Related animal: Goat
At Coal Oil Point Reserve, we met the wonderful manager of the goats that are housed there. The goats proved to be even more wonderful, as there were kids that were ready to play no matter how young they were. My past experiences with goats has always been very plain; they seem to want to be petted and play, but their ultimate goal is food and sometimes they can be skittish and off-putting. At the Reserve, I was able to have a completely different experience with the goats. The kids were okay with being held and I loved holding them because they felt familiar, like soft puppies whose limbs stick out because they are floppy and comfortable the way they are. Through the cuteness of the kids, I began to view the older goats differently because I generally saw them as unattractive and too large. Now, seeing what they look like as babies reminds me that they too are young and still looking to play. I wish they kept the soft fur and the uncertain leg movements, but I suppose growing older means losing the soft hair and floppiness. I want to incorporate the goats somehow into my final project, however I'm struggling to come up with a creative and feasible way.
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Story: Other Related Research
Lost Mole!
By Travis Jepson (04/13/10 09:50:42)
Related animal: Mole
I was biking back to my apartment and saw a group of three people looking at something in the grass. As I went to pass by them I saw it was a gopher/mole scurrying around the grass. I am not sure if the gopher was able to even know we were there as it continued to search for a way back underground.
[Write Comment]
By Travis Jepson (04/13/10 09:50:42)
Related animal: Mole
I was biking back to my apartment and saw a group of three people looking at something in the grass. As I went to pass by them I saw it was a gopher/mole scurrying around the grass. I am not sure if the gopher was able to even know we were there as it continued to search for a way back underground.
Reflection: History/Philosophy - the Aesthetics of Non-Human Animals
Man Who Talks to Whales Review
By Hector Medina (06/09/13 14:28:28)
Related animal: Whale
In chapter 1, Nollman describes some of his thoughts on animal communication and shared his musical connection with the turkey. He mentions how he saw this turkey as a collaborator not as an animal making noises. I found it interesting how he says we need to learn from animals and not simply about them. I find that to be such an impacting quote. He mentions how we as humans always seem to want animals to learn our language instead of us leaning theirs. Animals are to a point our equals, they are very smart but in their own way. I know this with my dog. She can tell when I am upset, when I want to play with her, or when I don’t want to be bothered. In the same way she can understand what I am feeling, why can’t we learn from them. We learn from body language, from characteristics and repeated behaviors. We need to make more of an effort to respect animals and treat them equally. What made us more superior than them? They have the same privileges we do; we both breathe the same air, we both live on the same planet. Just because we have opposable thumbs? Horses have hooves, whales have fins and my dog has paws? We all are different, and that is what makes us all the same.
Chapter 4 got my attention when I read, “Webster defines protocol as the ceremonial forms and courtesies that are established as proper and correct in official relations between parties. Interspecies protocol may thus be understood to mean the forms and manners (and defense postures) that any specious conforms to when relating to another species.” It basically summarizes what we are trying to do in this class. After we do this interaction, we create something relating to art. It’s an interesting way of thinking. Just like the situations presenting in the rest of the chapter. The lions and Bushmen had this distinct protocol where they couldn’t talk to each other, yet they knew how to treat one another. They knew the boundaries and how to respect one another. Once they natural balance was interrupted with the ranchers it seems like the protocol was broken and so was the trust. It is weird to finally know the proper name, or a suitable name, for the interaction we have with animals.
[Write Comment]
By Hector Medina (06/09/13 14:28:28)
Related animal: Whale
In chapter 1, Nollman describes some of his thoughts on animal communication and shared his musical connection with the turkey. He mentions how he saw this turkey as a collaborator not as an animal making noises. I found it interesting how he says we need to learn from animals and not simply about them. I find that to be such an impacting quote. He mentions how we as humans always seem to want animals to learn our language instead of us leaning theirs. Animals are to a point our equals, they are very smart but in their own way. I know this with my dog. She can tell when I am upset, when I want to play with her, or when I don’t want to be bothered. In the same way she can understand what I am feeling, why can’t we learn from them. We learn from body language, from characteristics and repeated behaviors. We need to make more of an effort to respect animals and treat them equally. What made us more superior than them? They have the same privileges we do; we both breathe the same air, we both live on the same planet. Just because we have opposable thumbs? Horses have hooves, whales have fins and my dog has paws? We all are different, and that is what makes us all the same.
Chapter 4 got my attention when I read, “Webster defines protocol as the ceremonial forms and courtesies that are established as proper and correct in official relations between parties. Interspecies protocol may thus be understood to mean the forms and manners (and defense postures) that any specious conforms to when relating to another species.” It basically summarizes what we are trying to do in this class. After we do this interaction, we create something relating to art. It’s an interesting way of thinking. Just like the situations presenting in the rest of the chapter. The lions and Bushmen had this distinct protocol where they couldn’t talk to each other, yet they knew how to treat one another. They knew the boundaries and how to respect one another. Once they natural balance was interrupted with the ranchers it seems like the protocol was broken and so was the trust. It is weird to finally know the proper name, or a suitable name, for the interaction we have with animals.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Me and my Bird
By Erik Shalat (05/20/13 09:53:39)
Related animal: Bird
After deliberating it with myself for a while I had an epiphany regarding my final project. I’ve postulated several ideas up until now for what I could do as art experiments with animals, but my heart was never in any of them. Throughout the quarter i’ve constantly brought up my pet cockatoo Toby as a personal reference point for my experience with animals, but i’ve never thought to do anything with that. I happen to have a fair share of footage and images of my bird through online video-chatting with my parents. They always like to share with me how the bird is reacting to my absence, and then they always get me to say something over the phone and see how Toby reacts to the sound of my voice. I was essentially already doing a very personal version of a animal sound experiment that we’ve seen examples of over the course of Spring Quarter.
I’ve been collecting videos my father has sent me over the course of the year, and we’ve decided to start recording more of them so that I can compile them into a single video. So far his reactions range from mild confusion and disinterest to putting his crown up and saying my name.
Toby is a very... attention starved creature. I am his favorite human in the world, i’ve had him since I was seven years old. I taught him all of the words he knows... well, both of the words he knows; hello and Erik. I spent more time with him than anyone else. This developed into a somewhat unhealthy relationship, as when i’m not around he gets depressed, but when I am there he gets overly excitable and aggressive. He used to only bite me, but now he has started biting my parents as well. They said if this continues they might have to take him to a bird sanctuary. As much as I hate what the bird does, I love him unconditionally. I don’t think i’ll change anything by making this art project, but it would capture the better more loving aspects of my relationship with Toby.
[Write Comment]
By Erik Shalat (05/20/13 09:53:39)
Related animal: Bird
After deliberating it with myself for a while I had an epiphany regarding my final project. I’ve postulated several ideas up until now for what I could do as art experiments with animals, but my heart was never in any of them. Throughout the quarter i’ve constantly brought up my pet cockatoo Toby as a personal reference point for my experience with animals, but i’ve never thought to do anything with that. I happen to have a fair share of footage and images of my bird through online video-chatting with my parents. They always like to share with me how the bird is reacting to my absence, and then they always get me to say something over the phone and see how Toby reacts to the sound of my voice. I was essentially already doing a very personal version of a animal sound experiment that we’ve seen examples of over the course of Spring Quarter.
I’ve been collecting videos my father has sent me over the course of the year, and we’ve decided to start recording more of them so that I can compile them into a single video. So far his reactions range from mild confusion and disinterest to putting his crown up and saying my name.
Toby is a very... attention starved creature. I am his favorite human in the world, i’ve had him since I was seven years old. I taught him all of the words he knows... well, both of the words he knows; hello and Erik. I spent more time with him than anyone else. This developed into a somewhat unhealthy relationship, as when i’m not around he gets depressed, but when I am there he gets overly excitable and aggressive. He used to only bite me, but now he has started biting my parents as well. They said if this continues they might have to take him to a bird sanctuary. As much as I hate what the bird does, I love him unconditionally. I don’t think i’ll change anything by making this art project, but it would capture the better more loving aspects of my relationship with Toby.
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meeting with the sealion
By forrest galante (04/22/09 16:49:18)
Related animal: Sea Lion
while out at santa cruz island over the weekend i had a wonderfull encounter with a california sea lion (Zalophus californianus). while out diving infront of Prisnors Harbour friday afternoon in a very rich and versitile kelp forest a single young male sealion came swimming up to me and the other two divers (tommy dutra and sinade kennedy). at first he was very weary and kept his ditance only observing us by stiking his head above the surface and looking our way but after 15 miniutes or so of this he realised we were not in the water with any intrest in harming any animals. he slowly and wearily moved in closer and closer untill he no longer was looking at us from above the surface but rather he was keeping his distance underwater and observing. A few miniutes of this went bye then he decided to come rite in and take a look. being alone he was not as brave as when in larger social groups. but he still managed to come in and swim rite by us and under us just observing our movements and actions. with some very slow and smooth body motions we were able to approach the animal without intimidating him. after a few passes and some specatacular views of the animal he decided to go about his buisness and he had lost interest in us.
[Write Comment]
By forrest galante (04/22/09 16:49:18)
Related animal: Sea Lion
while out at santa cruz island over the weekend i had a wonderfull encounter with a california sea lion (Zalophus californianus). while out diving infront of Prisnors Harbour friday afternoon in a very rich and versitile kelp forest a single young male sealion came swimming up to me and the other two divers (tommy dutra and sinade kennedy). at first he was very weary and kept his ditance only observing us by stiking his head above the surface and looking our way but after 15 miniutes or so of this he realised we were not in the water with any intrest in harming any animals. he slowly and wearily moved in closer and closer untill he no longer was looking at us from above the surface but rather he was keeping his distance underwater and observing. A few miniutes of this went bye then he decided to come rite in and take a look. being alone he was not as brave as when in larger social groups. but he still managed to come in and swim rite by us and under us just observing our movements and actions. with some very slow and smooth body motions we were able to approach the animal without intimidating him. after a few passes and some specatacular views of the animal he decided to go about his buisness and he had lost interest in us.
[Write Comment]
Mega Pod!
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/27/10 12:33:26)
Related animal: Dolphin
On Tuesday we went as a class on a whale-watching boat called the Condor Express to try and find a mega-pod of dolphins in the channel. Before going out we had been told that dolphins will swim in groups of thousands together in the ocean and that if we were lucky we might get to see one of these groups and ride alongside them in our boat. Well, that is exactly what we found. After driving far out into the channel for about 45 minutes the captain announced that there was a mega pod coming up on the horizon. To the naked eye it looked like an area of turbulent water with white caps as we approached . Then, suddenly we were completely surrounded by the dolphins. The captain estimated that there were two thousand of them in the group and they were jumping out of the water as they swam as far as the eye could see. We had a list of instructions for sounds and movements that we were supposed to make as a group as the boat made different movements around the dolphins. The excitement of our group was so high that it was difficult for the actions to pan out exactly as planned but we were able to get synchronized a few times. I tried to take some pictures of the dolphins in action, but the photos did not do the situation justice at all. The dolphins swim so fast that it is hard to capture them for the spit second that they are out of the water. I also recorded a few videos but they too did not do the situation justice. Really it is something that has to be experienced first hand and after a few minutes of trying to capture it, I realized that I just needed to experience the moment with my own undistracted eyes. The meditation task was one of my favorites. The boat sped up ahead of the dolphins and stopped and we sat and meditated as the dolphins caught up to us and passed us by. It was an incredibly serene moment, without the noise of the moving boat and only the ocean and wind to be heard. Another thing that worked out much better than I thought it would was using the hydrophone to play the dolphins’ underwater noises over the boats sound system. I though that we would not be able to hear the dolphins over the sound of the boat but sure enough we could here them perfectly. All in all the trip was amazing and an experience that I am so glad I got to participate in. Only a few weeks ago I had no idea that this kind of mega-pod of dolphins even existed and now I got to witness it with my own eyes.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/27/10 12:33:26)
Related animal: Dolphin
On Tuesday we went as a class on a whale-watching boat called the Condor Express to try and find a mega-pod of dolphins in the channel. Before going out we had been told that dolphins will swim in groups of thousands together in the ocean and that if we were lucky we might get to see one of these groups and ride alongside them in our boat. Well, that is exactly what we found. After driving far out into the channel for about 45 minutes the captain announced that there was a mega pod coming up on the horizon. To the naked eye it looked like an area of turbulent water with white caps as we approached . Then, suddenly we were completely surrounded by the dolphins. The captain estimated that there were two thousand of them in the group and they were jumping out of the water as they swam as far as the eye could see. We had a list of instructions for sounds and movements that we were supposed to make as a group as the boat made different movements around the dolphins. The excitement of our group was so high that it was difficult for the actions to pan out exactly as planned but we were able to get synchronized a few times. I tried to take some pictures of the dolphins in action, but the photos did not do the situation justice at all. The dolphins swim so fast that it is hard to capture them for the spit second that they are out of the water. I also recorded a few videos but they too did not do the situation justice. Really it is something that has to be experienced first hand and after a few minutes of trying to capture it, I realized that I just needed to experience the moment with my own undistracted eyes. The meditation task was one of my favorites. The boat sped up ahead of the dolphins and stopped and we sat and meditated as the dolphins caught up to us and passed us by. It was an incredibly serene moment, without the noise of the moving boat and only the ocean and wind to be heard. Another thing that worked out much better than I thought it would was using the hydrophone to play the dolphins’ underwater noises over the boats sound system. I though that we would not be able to hear the dolphins over the sound of the boat but sure enough we could here them perfectly. All in all the trip was amazing and an experience that I am so glad I got to participate in. Only a few weeks ago I had no idea that this kind of mega-pod of dolphins even existed and now I got to witness it with my own eyes.
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Other: Other Related Research
Midterm Check in
By Hector Medina (06/04/13 11:40:08)
Related animal: Chinchilla
I am yet to think of a solid idea for my final project, but I have some developing thoughts. I am thinking of creating something that showcases the interaction between the animals that I have met. Maybe create some comic inspired by Disney’s Wonder Pets show. I think it can work. So far I’ve met a bunny, guinea pig and a chinchilla, animals that I think could somehow get along. I recently met with the chinchilla, Sonic, so his experience is what is mostly present in my mind. I guess I can show some research on him and other chinchillas in the wild.
Chinchillas come from the Andes Mountains in South America. They live in the high altitude of Bolivia, Peru and Chile, yet there are farms that raise that breed them all over the world. There are two types of chinchillas. One has the body of a beaver, called the brevicaudata, and the other one which is most comment has a bunny shaped frame and is called the lanigera chinchilla. They have many predators, including birds, snakes and canines. They do have a defense mechanism which involves them spraying urine. They usually do it when being bitten on and a way to be released. Their diet consists of leaves, fruits, seeds and small insects. They live in groups called herds and their personality differs just like humans. They are rodents so their teeth never stop growing. They cannot sweat so they cannot live in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Their body grew to not allow them to seat because since they have such a thick fur, they are prone to fungus with moisture. That is why they often take dust baths. They usually prefer to roll around in volcanic ash. Something interesting is that their fur colors include gray, white, black, beige, ebony, violet, sapphire and a mix of them as well. It’s sad that poachers use them for their fur. It takes up to 150 to make one single coat. If you are keeping one as a pet there are some things you should know. They need to be stimulated, this means chew toys, running/exercise, and a big enclosure with layers to it. They also need a cave within their enclosure to cool off or to simply hide and have privacy.
My friend has a chinchilla and she told me some things unique about him. His name is Sonic. She got him after an abusive owner so he is hind of shy and fidgety when held. He is very active but not personable to new people. She has taught him some tricks, so he is intelligent. She recognizes her and responds to her well. She treats him with small marshmallows and sometimes small pieces of licorice. Makes me want a chinchilla.
[Write Comment]
By Hector Medina (06/04/13 11:40:08)
Related animal: Chinchilla
I am yet to think of a solid idea for my final project, but I have some developing thoughts. I am thinking of creating something that showcases the interaction between the animals that I have met. Maybe create some comic inspired by Disney’s Wonder Pets show. I think it can work. So far I’ve met a bunny, guinea pig and a chinchilla, animals that I think could somehow get along. I recently met with the chinchilla, Sonic, so his experience is what is mostly present in my mind. I guess I can show some research on him and other chinchillas in the wild.
Chinchillas come from the Andes Mountains in South America. They live in the high altitude of Bolivia, Peru and Chile, yet there are farms that raise that breed them all over the world. There are two types of chinchillas. One has the body of a beaver, called the brevicaudata, and the other one which is most comment has a bunny shaped frame and is called the lanigera chinchilla. They have many predators, including birds, snakes and canines. They do have a defense mechanism which involves them spraying urine. They usually do it when being bitten on and a way to be released. Their diet consists of leaves, fruits, seeds and small insects. They live in groups called herds and their personality differs just like humans. They are rodents so their teeth never stop growing. They cannot sweat so they cannot live in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Their body grew to not allow them to seat because since they have such a thick fur, they are prone to fungus with moisture. That is why they often take dust baths. They usually prefer to roll around in volcanic ash. Something interesting is that their fur colors include gray, white, black, beige, ebony, violet, sapphire and a mix of them as well. It’s sad that poachers use them for their fur. It takes up to 150 to make one single coat. If you are keeping one as a pet there are some things you should know. They need to be stimulated, this means chew toys, running/exercise, and a big enclosure with layers to it. They also need a cave within their enclosure to cool off or to simply hide and have privacy.
My friend has a chinchilla and she told me some things unique about him. His name is Sonic. She got him after an abusive owner so he is hind of shy and fidgety when held. He is very active but not personable to new people. She has taught him some tricks, so he is intelligent. She recognizes her and responds to her well. She treats him with small marshmallows and sometimes small pieces of licorice. Makes me want a chinchilla.
[Write Comment]
Mouse Tragedy Number 1
By Chelsea Hunter (05/11/09 15:34:09)
Related animal: Mice
A few weeks ago the snake that I am doing a collaboration with did not feel like eating her dinner. Her dinner happened to be a tiny white mouse that I affectionately named Senior Marshmellow. Since Pandora ( the snake) would not be eating him I thought that maybe I could use him in some sort of collaboration. He was very timid so my first order of business was to see how long it took him to feel comfortable with me. During the course of the day I picked him up many times and talked to him in a calming voice, at first he was very squirmy but he seemed to get more used to my touch as the day went on.This was right after we saw the pet communicator so I tried using some of things she taught me such as putting myself into his head to see if that would help me feel how he was feeling. I dont know if I was hungry or he was but I then realized that he had not eaten anything since he had been living in our house and that he probably needed to have some nourishment. Since I was not sure what he was in the mood for I picked a variety of fruit, veggies, and seeds ( I heard mice like sunflower seeds) from our kitchen. About an hour after I gave him his food I stopped by his cage to check on him and to my surprise he had eaten everything that I had given him and his body had turned into a massive white ball. He looked pretty tired, I was guessing it was because of all of the food so I decided to let him rest for a little while. The next day when i went to check on him he was not moving and after a little investigation i realized that he had passed away sometime during the night. My collaboration which never really started ended on a sad note with the death of Senior Marshmellow from an overdose of food.
[Write Comment]
By Chelsea Hunter (05/11/09 15:34:09)
Related animal: Mice
A few weeks ago the snake that I am doing a collaboration with did not feel like eating her dinner. Her dinner happened to be a tiny white mouse that I affectionately named Senior Marshmellow. Since Pandora ( the snake) would not be eating him I thought that maybe I could use him in some sort of collaboration. He was very timid so my first order of business was to see how long it took him to feel comfortable with me. During the course of the day I picked him up many times and talked to him in a calming voice, at first he was very squirmy but he seemed to get more used to my touch as the day went on.This was right after we saw the pet communicator so I tried using some of things she taught me such as putting myself into his head to see if that would help me feel how he was feeling. I dont know if I was hungry or he was but I then realized that he had not eaten anything since he had been living in our house and that he probably needed to have some nourishment. Since I was not sure what he was in the mood for I picked a variety of fruit, veggies, and seeds ( I heard mice like sunflower seeds) from our kitchen. About an hour after I gave him his food I stopped by his cage to check on him and to my surprise he had eaten everything that I had given him and his body had turned into a massive white ball. He looked pretty tired, I was guessing it was because of all of the food so I decided to let him rest for a little while. The next day when i went to check on him he was not moving and after a little investigation i realized that he had passed away sometime during the night. My collaboration which never really started ended on a sad note with the death of Senior Marshmellow from an overdose of food.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Mouse Tragedy Number 2
By Chelsea Hunter (05/11/09 15:49:52)
last week my roommates snake Pandora again neglected to eat her food but I was not too interested in collaborating with the new mouse because of the tragedy that occurred when trying to collaborate with Senior Marshmellow. The new mouse sat in it's cardboard box for a few days before getting restless and chewing it's way out to explore our house. I think it may have been interested in collaborating with me because he some how made his way into my bedroom and onto my head at 3 am. Luckily I am not afraid of mice and after the initial shock of waking to one my face I simply picked him up and put him back on the floor so he could explore for the rest of the night. In the morning after numerous shrieks from my other roommates I caught the new mouse and decided to spend sometime with him. He was much more anxious then the first mouse and I could feel his heart beating so fast as I held him in my hands. I tried to projected calm feelings of love and trust like I did with Senior Marshmellow but the new mouse was so frantic I think his feelings were affecting me. As I was holding onto him I started to feel a bit anxious and when I looked at him I felt a deep compassion which ultimately lead me to my decision to let him free. I opened the door and let him go outside immediately feeling better although not for long. The next day as I went for a morning run I ran pass the new mouse, smashed in the neighbors drive way. I really feel like I had a connection with that animal because I felt such strong feelings when seeing him dead, it was as if someone had punched me in the stomach. I cried and felt sadness that was similar to losing a pet.I dont know if it was because I felt responsible or if it was because we had communicated in a special way the day before but my reaction was very different than one would expect after seeing a rodent dead in the street.
[Write Comment]
By Chelsea Hunter (05/11/09 15:49:52)
last week my roommates snake Pandora again neglected to eat her food but I was not too interested in collaborating with the new mouse because of the tragedy that occurred when trying to collaborate with Senior Marshmellow. The new mouse sat in it's cardboard box for a few days before getting restless and chewing it's way out to explore our house. I think it may have been interested in collaborating with me because he some how made his way into my bedroom and onto my head at 3 am. Luckily I am not afraid of mice and after the initial shock of waking to one my face I simply picked him up and put him back on the floor so he could explore for the rest of the night. In the morning after numerous shrieks from my other roommates I caught the new mouse and decided to spend sometime with him. He was much more anxious then the first mouse and I could feel his heart beating so fast as I held him in my hands. I tried to projected calm feelings of love and trust like I did with Senior Marshmellow but the new mouse was so frantic I think his feelings were affecting me. As I was holding onto him I started to feel a bit anxious and when I looked at him I felt a deep compassion which ultimately lead me to my decision to let him free. I opened the door and let him go outside immediately feeling better although not for long. The next day as I went for a morning run I ran pass the new mouse, smashed in the neighbors drive way. I really feel like I had a connection with that animal because I felt such strong feelings when seeing him dead, it was as if someone had punched me in the stomach. I cried and felt sadness that was similar to losing a pet.I dont know if it was because I felt responsible or if it was because we had communicated in a special way the day before but my reaction was very different than one would expect after seeing a rodent dead in the street.
[Write Comment]
Other: Other Related Research
Mule Deer
By Alexandra Glaser (04/30/09 01:22:03)
Related animal: Mule Deer
Geography: Found in the Western Half of North America, generally West of the Missouri River. Mule deer prefer "edge" habitats where the trees meet the grass.
Visual Description: Mule Deer have large ears that move constantly and independently, from whence they get their name, "Mule" or "Burro Deer." Mule Deer are usually a dark gray-brown, with a small white rump patch and a small, black-tipped tail. This stocky deer with sturdy legs is 4 to 6-1/2 feet in length and 3 to 3-1/2 feet high at the shoulder.
Antlers: Mule deer antlers are bifurcated, or "fork" as they grow. The bucks' antlers, which start growth in spring and are shed around December each year, are high and branch forward with a spread of up to 4 feet. Antlers are shed after the breeding season, from mid-January to about mid-April. Dominance in the mule deer community is largely a function of size, therefore, the largest males which possess the largest antlers perform the most copulations during mating season.
Movement: They do not run as other deer, but have a peculiar and distinctive bounding leap (stotting) over distances up to 8 yards, with all 4 feet coming down together. In this fashion, they can reach a speed of 45 m.p.h. for short periods. This gait offers two advantages: it allows the deer to out-distance predators in rough terrain, and to see above the thick brush. If necessary, they can turn or completely reverse direction in the course of a single bound.
Feeding Behavior: In Spring and Summer it feeds on green leaves, herbs, weeds and grasses more than on browse species. The reverse is true in Fall and Winter. Mule Deer are browsers and eat a great variety of vegetable matter, including fresh green leaves, twigs, lower branches of trees, and various grasses. They are particularly fond of blackberry and raspberry vines, grapes, mistletoe, mushrooms and ferns.
Daily Behavior: Mule deer of both sexes normally do most of their feeding in early morning before sunrise or in late afternoon and evening after sundown. They spend the middle of the day bedded down in cool, secluded places. In summer, the bucks retire as soon as the sun shines where they are feeding and go to the dense shade of some grove to bed down for the day. This inactivity during the heat of the day is a behavioral adaptation to the desert environment that conserves water and keeps the body temperature within livable limits. Sweat glands and panting also provide evaporative cooling during hot periods.
Vocalization: Deer are not especially vocal, although young fawns bleat on occasion. Injured deer utter a startlingly loud "blatt" or bawl.
Smell: Although equipped with acute senses of sight and hearing, these deer rely largely upon the sense of smell in detecting danger
Sight: Stationary objects are easily overlooked by them, but they readily detect any that are in motion
Hearing: The Mule Deer sense of hearing is extremely acute.
Play behaviors: Mule Deer is an excellent swimmer, but water is rarely used as a means of escaping predators
Hunting: Mule deer are of considerable economic importance as a big game mammal and sport hunters kill about 1 million Mule Deer annually
Etc: Another physical adaptation, its larger feet, allows the Mule Deer to claw out water as much as two feet deep
Video of calling to a mule deer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdVmI1IUPX4
[Write Comment]
By Alexandra Glaser (04/30/09 01:22:03)
Related animal: Mule Deer
Geography: Found in the Western Half of North America, generally West of the Missouri River. Mule deer prefer "edge" habitats where the trees meet the grass.
Visual Description: Mule Deer have large ears that move constantly and independently, from whence they get their name, "Mule" or "Burro Deer." Mule Deer are usually a dark gray-brown, with a small white rump patch and a small, black-tipped tail. This stocky deer with sturdy legs is 4 to 6-1/2 feet in length and 3 to 3-1/2 feet high at the shoulder.
Antlers: Mule deer antlers are bifurcated, or "fork" as they grow. The bucks' antlers, which start growth in spring and are shed around December each year, are high and branch forward with a spread of up to 4 feet. Antlers are shed after the breeding season, from mid-January to about mid-April. Dominance in the mule deer community is largely a function of size, therefore, the largest males which possess the largest antlers perform the most copulations during mating season.
Movement: They do not run as other deer, but have a peculiar and distinctive bounding leap (stotting) over distances up to 8 yards, with all 4 feet coming down together. In this fashion, they can reach a speed of 45 m.p.h. for short periods. This gait offers two advantages: it allows the deer to out-distance predators in rough terrain, and to see above the thick brush. If necessary, they can turn or completely reverse direction in the course of a single bound.
Feeding Behavior: In Spring and Summer it feeds on green leaves, herbs, weeds and grasses more than on browse species. The reverse is true in Fall and Winter. Mule Deer are browsers and eat a great variety of vegetable matter, including fresh green leaves, twigs, lower branches of trees, and various grasses. They are particularly fond of blackberry and raspberry vines, grapes, mistletoe, mushrooms and ferns.
Daily Behavior: Mule deer of both sexes normally do most of their feeding in early morning before sunrise or in late afternoon and evening after sundown. They spend the middle of the day bedded down in cool, secluded places. In summer, the bucks retire as soon as the sun shines where they are feeding and go to the dense shade of some grove to bed down for the day. This inactivity during the heat of the day is a behavioral adaptation to the desert environment that conserves water and keeps the body temperature within livable limits. Sweat glands and panting also provide evaporative cooling during hot periods.
Vocalization: Deer are not especially vocal, although young fawns bleat on occasion. Injured deer utter a startlingly loud "blatt" or bawl.
Smell: Although equipped with acute senses of sight and hearing, these deer rely largely upon the sense of smell in detecting danger
Sight: Stationary objects are easily overlooked by them, but they readily detect any that are in motion
Hearing: The Mule Deer sense of hearing is extremely acute.
Play behaviors: Mule Deer is an excellent swimmer, but water is rarely used as a means of escaping predators
Hunting: Mule deer are of considerable economic importance as a big game mammal and sport hunters kill about 1 million Mule Deer annually
Etc: Another physical adaptation, its larger feet, allows the Mule Deer to claw out water as much as two feet deep
Video of calling to a mule deer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdVmI1IUPX4
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Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Mule Deer and Bobcats
By Jeff Marsch (05/12/09 15:10:38)
Related animals: Bobcat, Mule Deer
I went to the Sedgwick Reserve knowing nothing of the area, what animals might be there, or how they might respond to humans. In my experience, the large terrestrial animals that I would like to collaborate with are generally more sensitive to human presence, and would most likely need a good amount of time to develop a relationship in which they would feel comfortable enough with me to establish a real connection and the potential for collaboration. In that light, I went to Sedgwick with no intention of collaborating with anything, but rather just to see what was around. I decided that I would look for tracks to see what animals were sharing the same space. Walking to the north, away from the lodge and past the duck pond I found a pair of tracks with similar gait nearly treading right on top of one another. I later identified the tracks to be those of a bobcat and a mule deer, and did some research into how the two species interact. I found that the bobcat, while being generally much smaller than the mule deer, is occasionally its predator, and I found a picture of one such episode. In the picture the mule deer doesn't seem to be resisting the bobcat, and instead is idly letting the cat take him down by the throat. This appears to be an episode of one animal giving its life to the other so that the other may survive, as we briefly discussed in class. I wonder if animals ever truly do this exercise willingly, and if so if they would ever do the same for a human being. Is the way in which humans hunt recognized by other animals as a sort of engagement in combat? Or are the means used by humans (i.e. guns) so foreign that animals don't consider it a possibility to sacrifice themselves so that the other may survive? It seems that an animal that is making itself vulnerable to a human is doing everything but making itself a sacrifice.
[Write Comment]
By Jeff Marsch (05/12/09 15:10:38)
Related animals: Bobcat, Mule Deer
I went to the Sedgwick Reserve knowing nothing of the area, what animals might be there, or how they might respond to humans. In my experience, the large terrestrial animals that I would like to collaborate with are generally more sensitive to human presence, and would most likely need a good amount of time to develop a relationship in which they would feel comfortable enough with me to establish a real connection and the potential for collaboration. In that light, I went to Sedgwick with no intention of collaborating with anything, but rather just to see what was around. I decided that I would look for tracks to see what animals were sharing the same space. Walking to the north, away from the lodge and past the duck pond I found a pair of tracks with similar gait nearly treading right on top of one another. I later identified the tracks to be those of a bobcat and a mule deer, and did some research into how the two species interact. I found that the bobcat, while being generally much smaller than the mule deer, is occasionally its predator, and I found a picture of one such episode. In the picture the mule deer doesn't seem to be resisting the bobcat, and instead is idly letting the cat take him down by the throat. This appears to be an episode of one animal giving its life to the other so that the other may survive, as we briefly discussed in class. I wonder if animals ever truly do this exercise willingly, and if so if they would ever do the same for a human being. Is the way in which humans hunt recognized by other animals as a sort of engagement in combat? Or are the means used by humans (i.e. guns) so foreign that animals don't consider it a possibility to sacrifice themselves so that the other may survive? It seems that an animal that is making itself vulnerable to a human is doing everything but making itself a sacrifice.
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Story: Interspecies Communication
My Little Orphan Homie
By James Rowan (04/27/10 12:48:55)
Related animal: Pot Belly Pig
Last week the class visited Little Orphan Hammies, a pig sanctuary in Solvang, California, which deals with pot belly pigs who have grown to large for their owners to care for. It was pretty much exactly what I thought it would be, a single woman taking care of 40 or 50 hogs, each one more massive than the next. The pot belly pig has a tough lot in life in America. While cute at a young age, they keep growing and growing, their jowels getting bigger, flesh covering their eyes. Some of them had good temperments, but others just seemed pissed offed, irritable, and uncomfortable. There were, however, a few awesome animals in the mix, at least awesome in the sense that they wanted to hang out with me.
Like I've said before, I grew up on a farm and I raised pigs for years. While ultimately those relationships ended with them going to market, I still spent hours with the animals caring for them and bonding with them. Some people would say it is better not to get attached to the animals especially since they were just going to be sold for meat, but that's not as easy to do with a pig. Pigs are intelligent, like dogs are, maybe even more so. You can see intelligence in their eyes, and in the ways they respond to you. I have spent hours with them and knew that the pot bellies couldn't be all that different. I just had to find the ones who had been raised in an environment where they were not fearful or angry towards humans. Once I found them, it was easy for the communication to begin.
[Write Comment]
By James Rowan (04/27/10 12:48:55)
Related animal: Pot Belly Pig
Last week the class visited Little Orphan Hammies, a pig sanctuary in Solvang, California, which deals with pot belly pigs who have grown to large for their owners to care for. It was pretty much exactly what I thought it would be, a single woman taking care of 40 or 50 hogs, each one more massive than the next. The pot belly pig has a tough lot in life in America. While cute at a young age, they keep growing and growing, their jowels getting bigger, flesh covering their eyes. Some of them had good temperments, but others just seemed pissed offed, irritable, and uncomfortable. There were, however, a few awesome animals in the mix, at least awesome in the sense that they wanted to hang out with me.
Like I've said before, I grew up on a farm and I raised pigs for years. While ultimately those relationships ended with them going to market, I still spent hours with the animals caring for them and bonding with them. Some people would say it is better not to get attached to the animals especially since they were just going to be sold for meat, but that's not as easy to do with a pig. Pigs are intelligent, like dogs are, maybe even more so. You can see intelligence in their eyes, and in the ways they respond to you. I have spent hours with them and knew that the pot bellies couldn't be all that different. I just had to find the ones who had been raised in an environment where they were not fearful or angry towards humans. Once I found them, it was easy for the communication to begin.
best buds at the farm. |
Mya and the Tree
By Danielle Terhune (06/13/10 13:22:14)
Related animal: Tree
My sister sent me some funny pictures of my three year old niece, Mya, and her “new friend.” This new friend happened to be a big tree. Clicking through the pictures on facebook I couldn’t help but be brought back to the class when Barbara Janell, the animal communicator, had us all find trees to connect with.
During that class I thought I had felt the connection with the tree, but also had my doubts, and later on just wrote it off as my mind forcing an imaginative connection. I’ve always had a vivid imagination. It seemed silly at the time, and still sort of does, thinking I could connect with a tree, but after viewing the pictures of my niece I noticed that she seemed legitimately connected to the tree. There was fascination in her eyes. More then curiosity in her actions. Though there were many tree’s to chose from, she stuck to the same one.
In her first encounter with the tree he stands back and just stares at it in concentration. As if there is almost a silent dialogue. With Mya still lacking a large vocabulary as a three year old I imagine it would be easier for her to communicate with a tree. I remember with Janell I felt like the tree picked me, I didn’t pick the tree. And in the photo, Mya seems to be cautiously testing the waters. In the next photo, Mya appears to be looking intently at the bark. Maybe she’s wondering what causes it to look rough and cracked, she looks almost unhappy at the way it appears. I think personally for Mya it would remind her of a cracked scab or ‘owey.’ And coming to that conclusion may account for the sad curiosity in her eyes. In the next image she openly explores its trunk and bark. Maybe she understands that the tree is supposed to look the way it does. The next image shows Mya pointing up in awe, as if asking the tree how it got so tall and spread out its branches so far. I am sure being the little shorty that she is, she may be almost envious of its great height. She enjoys the feel of the tree, and I suppose if I were to believe that the tree really does have feelings or a spirit it might enjoy being tickled and by the soft little fingers of a young girl barely our of her toddler years paying it great attention. In the next photo she tries to climb it, obviously an impossibility due to its high branches. The picture where she is hugging the tree is so cute. Her arms wrap around it in a gentle manner, her cheek is pressed against it, and her eyes are heavily lidded. It reminds me of when Janell made absolutely sure to tell us all to thank the tree for its time and wisdom. With Mya wrapping up her “conversation” with the tree and her exploration of it with a very sweet and caring hug I am wondering if she realized it was naturally the right thing to do.
I really feel that children, especially the younger they are, have a deeper connection to nature then we as adults ever will. We have ‘advanced’ too much in technologies and agricultural systems that we no longer rely on plants individually for our survival, but our own knowledge to almost force an abundance of nature. Nature no longer choses where to grow, we plant trees and even transplant trees to better suit our needs. The fact that the tree in which my niece became attached to for a day was placed in a short row of trees outside of a warehouse is a harsh juxtaposition of the reality of where a little girl, who is growing up in a city like Houston, Texas, can only find friends in ‘nature’ outside of her daddy’s work. I grew up in Oregon where an overabundance of trees, nature, wildlife, and little forests everywhere can be found. I think that added a lot to the richness of my childhood, being able to find myself surrounded in trees and foliage. Yet as I look at these pictures of my niece and her oddly placed tree I am given a little hope that although we may destroy forests for the development of land and businesses and warehouses, nature still finds a way touch a little girl as she waits with her mommy in the parking lot.
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (06/13/10 13:22:14)
Related animal: Tree
My sister sent me some funny pictures of my three year old niece, Mya, and her “new friend.” This new friend happened to be a big tree. Clicking through the pictures on facebook I couldn’t help but be brought back to the class when Barbara Janell, the animal communicator, had us all find trees to connect with.
During that class I thought I had felt the connection with the tree, but also had my doubts, and later on just wrote it off as my mind forcing an imaginative connection. I’ve always had a vivid imagination. It seemed silly at the time, and still sort of does, thinking I could connect with a tree, but after viewing the pictures of my niece I noticed that she seemed legitimately connected to the tree. There was fascination in her eyes. More then curiosity in her actions. Though there were many tree’s to chose from, she stuck to the same one.
In her first encounter with the tree he stands back and just stares at it in concentration. As if there is almost a silent dialogue. With Mya still lacking a large vocabulary as a three year old I imagine it would be easier for her to communicate with a tree. I remember with Janell I felt like the tree picked me, I didn’t pick the tree. And in the photo, Mya seems to be cautiously testing the waters. In the next photo, Mya appears to be looking intently at the bark. Maybe she’s wondering what causes it to look rough and cracked, she looks almost unhappy at the way it appears. I think personally for Mya it would remind her of a cracked scab or ‘owey.’ And coming to that conclusion may account for the sad curiosity in her eyes. In the next image she openly explores its trunk and bark. Maybe she understands that the tree is supposed to look the way it does. The next image shows Mya pointing up in awe, as if asking the tree how it got so tall and spread out its branches so far. I am sure being the little shorty that she is, she may be almost envious of its great height. She enjoys the feel of the tree, and I suppose if I were to believe that the tree really does have feelings or a spirit it might enjoy being tickled and by the soft little fingers of a young girl barely our of her toddler years paying it great attention. In the next photo she tries to climb it, obviously an impossibility due to its high branches. The picture where she is hugging the tree is so cute. Her arms wrap around it in a gentle manner, her cheek is pressed against it, and her eyes are heavily lidded. It reminds me of when Janell made absolutely sure to tell us all to thank the tree for its time and wisdom. With Mya wrapping up her “conversation” with the tree and her exploration of it with a very sweet and caring hug I am wondering if she realized it was naturally the right thing to do.
I really feel that children, especially the younger they are, have a deeper connection to nature then we as adults ever will. We have ‘advanced’ too much in technologies and agricultural systems that we no longer rely on plants individually for our survival, but our own knowledge to almost force an abundance of nature. Nature no longer choses where to grow, we plant trees and even transplant trees to better suit our needs. The fact that the tree in which my niece became attached to for a day was placed in a short row of trees outside of a warehouse is a harsh juxtaposition of the reality of where a little girl, who is growing up in a city like Houston, Texas, can only find friends in ‘nature’ outside of her daddy’s work. I grew up in Oregon where an overabundance of trees, nature, wildlife, and little forests everywhere can be found. I think that added a lot to the richness of my childhood, being able to find myself surrounded in trees and foliage. Yet as I look at these pictures of my niece and her oddly placed tree I am given a little hope that although we may destroy forests for the development of land and businesses and warehouses, nature still finds a way touch a little girl as she waits with her mommy in the parking lot.
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Story: Art Made by Non-Human Animals
Neighbor Nest
By Hannah Vainstein (05/06/09 11:50:22)
Related animal: Bird
Day one: mission in getting to know my neighbors.
West Campus Family housing is located at the intersection of El Colegio and Stork Rd. It is only a short walk to Cole Oil Point and the bluffs. The main nature areas include the road behind Isla Vista Elementary leading to the park on Fortuna Rd, the family housing community gardens right next to the apartment complex which also boarders the Devereux lagoon and the bit of nature surrounding the lagoon before the golf course.
For my first walk I have set out to wonder through the community gardens and along the road leading toward Coal Oil Point. I am giving myself the freedom to stop at any point along the road and sit for a while also any possible relationship with an animal to start.
Recount of journey:
At the very start of the walk I came across something I had never seen before: a gofer. Of course I have heard of them loads and they eat all of my gardens I planted when I was little but I have never seen one before. Nathan and I stood for a while watching him takes pieces of grass into his hole. I’m pretty sure he was aware of our presents for many reasons one being that Nathan was singing to him. After a while we continued on the walk. Along the road we came to two benches. I heard some resettling near the edge of the benches and so I crouched down to see what was happening. What ever was there ran away. I then sat down on the bench that was beneath two Eucalyptus trees. I meditated for a while and I kept hearing a fast flutter noise passing above me. After a while I discovered that I humming bird had been passing over my head very close to me. As it was getting dark I decided to walk home. Just before getting to my walk way I looked down and found a fallen nest on the ground. I turned it over and discovered that it had been a used nest which had been blown out of the tree. I feel that it was a gift from my little neighbors.
[Write Comment]
By Hannah Vainstein (05/06/09 11:50:22)
Related animal: Bird
Day one: mission in getting to know my neighbors.
West Campus Family housing is located at the intersection of El Colegio and Stork Rd. It is only a short walk to Cole Oil Point and the bluffs. The main nature areas include the road behind Isla Vista Elementary leading to the park on Fortuna Rd, the family housing community gardens right next to the apartment complex which also boarders the Devereux lagoon and the bit of nature surrounding the lagoon before the golf course.
For my first walk I have set out to wonder through the community gardens and along the road leading toward Coal Oil Point. I am giving myself the freedom to stop at any point along the road and sit for a while also any possible relationship with an animal to start.
Recount of journey:
At the very start of the walk I came across something I had never seen before: a gofer. Of course I have heard of them loads and they eat all of my gardens I planted when I was little but I have never seen one before. Nathan and I stood for a while watching him takes pieces of grass into his hole. I’m pretty sure he was aware of our presents for many reasons one being that Nathan was singing to him. After a while we continued on the walk. Along the road we came to two benches. I heard some resettling near the edge of the benches and so I crouched down to see what was happening. What ever was there ran away. I then sat down on the bench that was beneath two Eucalyptus trees. I meditated for a while and I kept hearing a fast flutter noise passing above me. After a while I discovered that I humming bird had been passing over my head very close to me. As it was getting dark I decided to walk home. Just before getting to my walk way I looked down and found a fallen nest on the ground. I turned it over and discovered that it had been a used nest which had been blown out of the tree. I feel that it was a gift from my little neighbors.
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Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Next Reading
By Norah Eldredge (04/27/10 12:22:49)
All of these readings and research opportunities, more than any other response, make me reflect upon my personal relationships with the animals in my life.
For example, the change that has happened in my relationship with my cat Leonard is huge. Like any relationship, human or otherwise, ours was never totally consistent. Some days we got along great. He would purr around my ankles and be super excited to see me. These periods were always brief. Most of the time, he would sleep in my room mates' closets, lounge alone somewhere and not really even sleep on my bed ever.
I felt like a bad mom a lot. I didn't have time to even pet him for a long time, and he never really received much attention from me at all except when I fed him and cleaned his litter box.
Then, because of this class and my reflections on myself and my interactions with animals, our relationship has changed. I realized, especially after the animals talking session when I learned how to channel toward Leonard and that he is really smart and needs my attention. I started making more time for him. When I get home from class I dedicate at least five minutes to at least touching him, petting him and telling him how much I love him. When I am sitting on the couch or in the kitchen, I try to send him mental messages to let him know that I like having him around and that I think he's great.
The change has been unbelievable! He runs up to me when I get home. He follows me around the house like a little shadow, and he never misses an opportunity to sleep on my bed. My attitude and time dedication change toward him has changed his personality and mine as well! I feel his energy is calmer and I do not send guilty or busy energy toward him anymore either.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (06/10/10 18:05:38):
I am so happy for you and Leonard!
By Norah Eldredge (04/27/10 12:22:49)
All of these readings and research opportunities, more than any other response, make me reflect upon my personal relationships with the animals in my life.
For example, the change that has happened in my relationship with my cat Leonard is huge. Like any relationship, human or otherwise, ours was never totally consistent. Some days we got along great. He would purr around my ankles and be super excited to see me. These periods were always brief. Most of the time, he would sleep in my room mates' closets, lounge alone somewhere and not really even sleep on my bed ever.
I felt like a bad mom a lot. I didn't have time to even pet him for a long time, and he never really received much attention from me at all except when I fed him and cleaned his litter box.
Then, because of this class and my reflections on myself and my interactions with animals, our relationship has changed. I realized, especially after the animals talking session when I learned how to channel toward Leonard and that he is really smart and needs my attention. I started making more time for him. When I get home from class I dedicate at least five minutes to at least touching him, petting him and telling him how much I love him. When I am sitting on the couch or in the kitchen, I try to send him mental messages to let him know that I like having him around and that I think he's great.
The change has been unbelievable! He runs up to me when I get home. He follows me around the house like a little shadow, and he never misses an opportunity to sleep on my bed. My attitude and time dedication change toward him has changed his personality and mine as well! I feel his energy is calmer and I do not send guilty or busy energy toward him anymore either.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (06/10/10 18:05:38):
I am so happy for you and Leonard!
Nollman Ch.1
By Michael Martinez (04/27/10 00:24:21)
1. When Nollman says he would like to learn from animals as opposed to about them he means he wants to have an active part in their collaboration. What Nollman does, and what we can learn from him is that we should not have preconceived notions about animals. We should be open minded and allow animals to participate.
2. When Nollman started experimenting with the turkey it was more about doing something without regard for the turkey. Nollman would play his instruments to see how the turkey would react. When he played with the turkey he fostered a positive environment for the turkey to be active and participate equally in.
3. The problem with humans communicating with non-humans is that it is assumed more often than not that animals think like use, or communicate in a similar matter. I think this is very true, we know what we know and if we are not used to thinking in ways other than how we normally do, we will automatically assume they are like us. We should have a more open ended style communication in which we discuss with animals the way they want to, or reveal to us.
4. Nollman felt like a shaman because he was no longer observing but participating with the turkey. This participation exceeded beyond the musical performances. When Nollman participated with the turkey he started to think like and understand a turkey that seemed to surpass normal communications.
5. While he is an animal lover he feels like zoology is not done out of love for animals. He feels there is a disconnect between the scientist and their work and the respect they should have for the animal. He also feels that the work done with animals, when harmful, serves no purpose no matter the gains. While I do agree that humans often fail to understand animals as intelligent beings, I feel the view on animal testing is a bit harsh. I feel that testing animals for medical research is great, not on-board for cosmetic purposes. I feel it is a bit selfish to let others die when a cure could be close by, but would requite testing on animals. While I don't know with any certainty what animal research facilities are like, but i feel that there could always be improved and the process made more open and copacetic.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Martinez (04/27/10 00:24:21)
1. When Nollman says he would like to learn from animals as opposed to about them he means he wants to have an active part in their collaboration. What Nollman does, and what we can learn from him is that we should not have preconceived notions about animals. We should be open minded and allow animals to participate.
2. When Nollman started experimenting with the turkey it was more about doing something without regard for the turkey. Nollman would play his instruments to see how the turkey would react. When he played with the turkey he fostered a positive environment for the turkey to be active and participate equally in.
3. The problem with humans communicating with non-humans is that it is assumed more often than not that animals think like use, or communicate in a similar matter. I think this is very true, we know what we know and if we are not used to thinking in ways other than how we normally do, we will automatically assume they are like us. We should have a more open ended style communication in which we discuss with animals the way they want to, or reveal to us.
4. Nollman felt like a shaman because he was no longer observing but participating with the turkey. This participation exceeded beyond the musical performances. When Nollman participated with the turkey he started to think like and understand a turkey that seemed to surpass normal communications.
5. While he is an animal lover he feels like zoology is not done out of love for animals. He feels there is a disconnect between the scientist and their work and the respect they should have for the animal. He also feels that the work done with animals, when harmful, serves no purpose no matter the gains. While I do agree that humans often fail to understand animals as intelligent beings, I feel the view on animal testing is a bit harsh. I feel that testing animals for medical research is great, not on-board for cosmetic purposes. I feel it is a bit selfish to let others die when a cure could be close by, but would requite testing on animals. While I don't know with any certainty what animal research facilities are like, but i feel that there could always be improved and the process made more open and copacetic.
[Write Comment]
Nollman Ch.4
By Michael Martinez (04/27/10 01:26:55)
1. I am not sure what Nollman means when he says, "we need new ecological metaphors." From what I gleaned from the chapter is that ecological metaphors are ways we understand how we collaborate animals. Like in his example of the bushmen and the lions. The ecological metaphor was that when lions are at water holes, the bushmen are not, and when bushmen are trying to sleep, the lions are "asked" not to roar.
2. Interspecies Protocol, is, I only guessing, what Nollman suggests should be our new ecological metaphor. In Interspecies Protocol we are to treat animals as equals or peers. In this mentality we treat animals like we do other people. We do not force anything on them but find ways in which we communicate and cohabitate.
3. Symbiosis is a physical co-dependency between to individuals, while interspecies protocol is a behavior based relationship, in which individuals treat each other as equals.
4. Interspecies Protocol might be seen as anthropomorphic because it focuses on recognizing actions of animals and associating them with behavioral messages or demeanor.
5. A Canadian Grizzly Bear might be fearful of humans, because it is normal for bears to be shot on sight if they get too close to humans. So all curious and social bears are eliminated leaving only the fearful and stealthy bears left.
6. When we view animals as individuals we see them in a more harmonious and cooperative light. When we view animals as representatives we neglect behavior, or character of the animal, and we are forced to observed and not interact.
7. Language plays a huge roll in Interspecies Protocol. Nollman talks about how we are trained very young to observe animals and what words not to use to describe them. This subtle training ends up creating a natural instinct to observe as oppose to participate or communicate.
8. Speciesism is the discrimination of other species. The discrimination is often about assigning certain characteristics to species.
9. I don't think there was ever a time where we lived harmoniously with other species. Because we are animals we are both prey and predator. At some point in our existence we have to hunt down other creatures to survive and at another we must run from other animals to survive. So while we may have lived more closely to other animals we did not do so entirely harmoniously.
10. We can incorporate "the other people" into "the councils of government" by thinking differently about animals and doing things to preserve them and their habitats.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Martinez (04/27/10 01:26:55)
1. I am not sure what Nollman means when he says, "we need new ecological metaphors." From what I gleaned from the chapter is that ecological metaphors are ways we understand how we collaborate animals. Like in his example of the bushmen and the lions. The ecological metaphor was that when lions are at water holes, the bushmen are not, and when bushmen are trying to sleep, the lions are "asked" not to roar.
2. Interspecies Protocol, is, I only guessing, what Nollman suggests should be our new ecological metaphor. In Interspecies Protocol we are to treat animals as equals or peers. In this mentality we treat animals like we do other people. We do not force anything on them but find ways in which we communicate and cohabitate.
3. Symbiosis is a physical co-dependency between to individuals, while interspecies protocol is a behavior based relationship, in which individuals treat each other as equals.
4. Interspecies Protocol might be seen as anthropomorphic because it focuses on recognizing actions of animals and associating them with behavioral messages or demeanor.
5. A Canadian Grizzly Bear might be fearful of humans, because it is normal for bears to be shot on sight if they get too close to humans. So all curious and social bears are eliminated leaving only the fearful and stealthy bears left.
6. When we view animals as individuals we see them in a more harmonious and cooperative light. When we view animals as representatives we neglect behavior, or character of the animal, and we are forced to observed and not interact.
7. Language plays a huge roll in Interspecies Protocol. Nollman talks about how we are trained very young to observe animals and what words not to use to describe them. This subtle training ends up creating a natural instinct to observe as oppose to participate or communicate.
8. Speciesism is the discrimination of other species. The discrimination is often about assigning certain characteristics to species.
9. I don't think there was ever a time where we lived harmoniously with other species. Because we are animals we are both prey and predator. At some point in our existence we have to hunt down other creatures to survive and at another we must run from other animals to survive. So while we may have lived more closely to other animals we did not do so entirely harmoniously.
10. We can incorporate "the other people" into "the councils of government" by thinking differently about animals and doing things to preserve them and their habitats.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Nollman Reading Ch 10
By Andrea Chase (05/12/10 14:22:55)
Related animal: Dolphin
Nollman's last chapter was very interesting to me. The concept of Gaia struck me as oddly familiar to many of the Buddhist ideals I have come to love. The idea that one is everything and everything is one; is the main idea behind the relation to other beings as discussed in many Buddhist thoughts. Gaia also similarly believes that there is some "one" in every being that is a constant between all living things. Although I found Nollman's interest in his idea deemed Gaia quite fascinating, while looking through the reading for resolution to our debate determining the ethics regarding human interaction (and subsequent effects) with animals. Nollman offered little to no advice upon highlighting this great moral inquiry we stumbled upon. Although he did go so far as to mention it (briefly) he could not offer other than the already viewpoints we had discussed in class.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (05/12/10 14:22:55)
Related animal: Dolphin
Nollman's last chapter was very interesting to me. The concept of Gaia struck me as oddly familiar to many of the Buddhist ideals I have come to love. The idea that one is everything and everything is one; is the main idea behind the relation to other beings as discussed in many Buddhist thoughts. Gaia also similarly believes that there is some "one" in every being that is a constant between all living things. Although I found Nollman's interest in his idea deemed Gaia quite fascinating, while looking through the reading for resolution to our debate determining the ethics regarding human interaction (and subsequent effects) with animals. Nollman offered little to no advice upon highlighting this great moral inquiry we stumbled upon. Although he did go so far as to mention it (briefly) he could not offer other than the already viewpoints we had discussed in class.
Essay: Other Related Research
Nollman's Book
By Avid Mozaffarian (04/23/10 00:51:55)
Nollman's Book, ?the Man Who Talks to Whales? opened a new window of thinking for me. Jim?s musical encounter with the neighbors turkey was fascinating and interesting to see how the turkey willingly was tempted to continue the collaboration with him by keeping the animal intrigued. Nollman's description of the relationship between the bushman?s and the lions shows the level of respect an animal as ?wild? as a lion has for humans since neither party passes the line of the other. Lions and bushman are a great example of mutual respect and trust between both sides.
[Write Comment]
By Avid Mozaffarian (04/23/10 00:51:55)
Nollman's Book, ?the Man Who Talks to Whales? opened a new window of thinking for me. Jim?s musical encounter with the neighbors turkey was fascinating and interesting to see how the turkey willingly was tempted to continue the collaboration with him by keeping the animal intrigued. Nollman's description of the relationship between the bushman?s and the lions shows the level of respect an animal as ?wild? as a lion has for humans since neither party passes the line of the other. Lions and bushman are a great example of mutual respect and trust between both sides.
[Write Comment]
How To: Interspecies Relationships
Old encounters from the beginning
By Mark Linggi (06/01/10 23:41:03)
Related animal: Mallard Duck
Although I have not been regular with my updates, I have been making written records with my encounters with animals (mostly the ducks).
April 27, 2010
With a couple of weeks not encounter any signs of the ducks, I have finally found one. Although my intentions are to observe the duck couple, I have only found one. After going to Jamba Juice, getting a free brownie in the process ($1 off baked goods and brownies only cost $1), I went to the pound near Storke Tower to see if any of the ducks would be there. I know from previous encounters that that specific pond is one of the couple's favorite spots. Unfortunately (or fortunately for my lack of seeing the ducks) I saw the male duck. I decided to sit a bit closer to my friend, but not too close so that I would disturb him. I reached in the bag, making some noise with the bag, and the duck came closer to me. I believe that he thought that I was reaching into the bag to give him some food. He soon realized that I was not going to give him anything so he sat down. I felt bad that he was without his other half (the female duck) so I started to talk to him for a little while just so I could keep him company. However, within 5 minutes, another male duck flew from the sky and sat down next to the other male duck. With this sight, I became happier knowing that these two bachelors at least were keeping each other company. I began to wonder if the females had just left the two, or because of the season, if the females were taking care of a nest while the males just left. Hopefully I will be able to see the duck couple again rather than two male bachelors (although this was a step in the right direction).
[Write Comment]
Comment by mlinggi (06/07/10 13:12:13):
I meant to put this under projects. Sorry this is not a how to, more of an observation.
By Mark Linggi (06/01/10 23:41:03)
Related animal: Mallard Duck
Although I have not been regular with my updates, I have been making written records with my encounters with animals (mostly the ducks).
April 27, 2010
With a couple of weeks not encounter any signs of the ducks, I have finally found one. Although my intentions are to observe the duck couple, I have only found one. After going to Jamba Juice, getting a free brownie in the process ($1 off baked goods and brownies only cost $1), I went to the pound near Storke Tower to see if any of the ducks would be there. I know from previous encounters that that specific pond is one of the couple's favorite spots. Unfortunately (or fortunately for my lack of seeing the ducks) I saw the male duck. I decided to sit a bit closer to my friend, but not too close so that I would disturb him. I reached in the bag, making some noise with the bag, and the duck came closer to me. I believe that he thought that I was reaching into the bag to give him some food. He soon realized that I was not going to give him anything so he sat down. I felt bad that he was without his other half (the female duck) so I started to talk to him for a little while just so I could keep him company. However, within 5 minutes, another male duck flew from the sky and sat down next to the other male duck. With this sight, I became happier knowing that these two bachelors at least were keeping each other company. I began to wonder if the females had just left the two, or because of the season, if the females were taking care of a nest while the males just left. Hopefully I will be able to see the duck couple again rather than two male bachelors (although this was a step in the right direction).
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Comment by mlinggi (06/07/10 13:12:13):
I meant to put this under projects. Sorry this is not a how to, more of an observation.
On Grizzly People Movies and Letters from Charlie text
By Serena Zahler (05/06/10 16:51:06)
Related animal: Bear
When I originally watched "Walking with Giants" I personally thought Charlie was crazy. Going into a habitat that isn't inhabited by humans and living among wild bears, in order to show that they aren't dangerous. When I view this from an interspecies perspective, he is putting himself in a dangerous situation in order to help the bears when the bears wouldn't do that same for him. Bears look after them selves to survive, but Charlie the human is putting himself in harms way to show his species that bears are not dangerous. I guess the argument hear is that humans have a responsibility to advocate on behalf over other species because we have a conscience, but then do other animals have a responsibility to us to do the same? After reading Charlie's thoughts on Timothy Treadwell and "Grizzly Man," I gained a new respect for Charlie's motives. His background in ranching and move into bear advocate made sense and he had a healthy respect for the balance of nature and his own personal safety. I commend his honesty about Treadwell and I believe in his frustration that Timothy didn't keep a healthy sense of reality when he was with these animals. Charlie said he kept pepper spray and used an electric fence to keep himself and his things his. On the other end, Timothy believed him self to be a "kind warrior " for the bears and called them his friends. He spoke to them and had a boyhood obsession/lust when speaking about them. I feel at times his purpose was purely personal. It was interesting to me how the Native American believed Timothy was very disrespectful in his actions with the bears; Native American's don't fear bears, but respect their territory and the interspecies relationship. After this week and my immense gain of knowledge, I find myself still asking questions about the intentions behind Charlie and Timothy and if one is more justified than the other. Also, in the end Timothy did die a tragic death at the mercy of the bears he felt he was protecting, but are they protected or did his death create more danger for them?
[Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (05/06/10 16:51:06)
Related animal: Bear
When I originally watched "Walking with Giants" I personally thought Charlie was crazy. Going into a habitat that isn't inhabited by humans and living among wild bears, in order to show that they aren't dangerous. When I view this from an interspecies perspective, he is putting himself in a dangerous situation in order to help the bears when the bears wouldn't do that same for him. Bears look after them selves to survive, but Charlie the human is putting himself in harms way to show his species that bears are not dangerous. I guess the argument hear is that humans have a responsibility to advocate on behalf over other species because we have a conscience, but then do other animals have a responsibility to us to do the same? After reading Charlie's thoughts on Timothy Treadwell and "Grizzly Man," I gained a new respect for Charlie's motives. His background in ranching and move into bear advocate made sense and he had a healthy respect for the balance of nature and his own personal safety. I commend his honesty about Treadwell and I believe in his frustration that Timothy didn't keep a healthy sense of reality when he was with these animals. Charlie said he kept pepper spray and used an electric fence to keep himself and his things his. On the other end, Timothy believed him self to be a "kind warrior " for the bears and called them his friends. He spoke to them and had a boyhood obsession/lust when speaking about them. I feel at times his purpose was purely personal. It was interesting to me how the Native American believed Timothy was very disrespectful in his actions with the bears; Native American's don't fear bears, but respect their territory and the interspecies relationship. After this week and my immense gain of knowledge, I find myself still asking questions about the intentions behind Charlie and Timothy and if one is more justified than the other. Also, in the end Timothy did die a tragic death at the mercy of the bears he felt he was protecting, but are they protected or did his death create more danger for them?
[Write Comment]
Ongoing Weekly Assignment 5/12
By Brianna Acuesta (05/12/14 12:45:26)
Related animals: Dog, Goat, Octopus
This past week I visited the goats at Coal Oil Point with some friends and attempted to collaborate with them without documenting it and just experiencing it. I still want to create something involving the octopus at the REEF but the glitch photography, something I’ve never tried before, is proving to be more difficult than I anticipated. It’s not just because of the actual editing, but also because I have to take pictures of the octopus while also documenting her (seems like a she to me) movements. I’ve tried having someone write them down for me while I photograph her but it seems impersonal because I felt like I should be the one noticing her emotions based on her movements. I tried afterwards to record her but that seemed impersonal as well. I’m learning that collaborating with animals with the goal of creating something artistic can almost take the magic out of the interaction because I don’t get to experience the interaction since I’m so caught up with capturing it. Anyways, I collaborated with the goats and picked them up again and got an idea about maybe bringing paper with me and putting it up against me. There are two goats that constantly jump on me so that they can chew my hair and my shirt, and I’m thinking that I can put the paper over me so that they get their dirty hooves on the paper instead. I would then use the marks made on the paper to copy over to a canvas and paint something inspired by the goats with the marks as the center of the piece. Since I’m not originally a painter and I haven’t experimented too much, I’m not sure how difficult it will be to copy over the marks using paint or to even paint around that, but I’m hoping to visit the goats on Wednesday to get started. I’m really glad that we were able to visit the goats because I would not have been able to come up with an idea incorporating goats.
Also, I’m still considering a side project with my dog, Mango, because I’d like for the class to see how sweet he is at home. I’m still considering just a simple photography that documents how adorable, cuddly, and loving he is with my husband and I. I think that this would still be a close form of collaboration since it’s a side of him that no one in class will ever see and it’s very close and personal. I’ve already begun to take pictures so that is the closest to a project that I’ve started so far.
[Write Comment]
By Brianna Acuesta (05/12/14 12:45:26)
Related animals: Dog, Goat, Octopus
This past week I visited the goats at Coal Oil Point with some friends and attempted to collaborate with them without documenting it and just experiencing it. I still want to create something involving the octopus at the REEF but the glitch photography, something I’ve never tried before, is proving to be more difficult than I anticipated. It’s not just because of the actual editing, but also because I have to take pictures of the octopus while also documenting her (seems like a she to me) movements. I’ve tried having someone write them down for me while I photograph her but it seems impersonal because I felt like I should be the one noticing her emotions based on her movements. I tried afterwards to record her but that seemed impersonal as well. I’m learning that collaborating with animals with the goal of creating something artistic can almost take the magic out of the interaction because I don’t get to experience the interaction since I’m so caught up with capturing it. Anyways, I collaborated with the goats and picked them up again and got an idea about maybe bringing paper with me and putting it up against me. There are two goats that constantly jump on me so that they can chew my hair and my shirt, and I’m thinking that I can put the paper over me so that they get their dirty hooves on the paper instead. I would then use the marks made on the paper to copy over to a canvas and paint something inspired by the goats with the marks as the center of the piece. Since I’m not originally a painter and I haven’t experimented too much, I’m not sure how difficult it will be to copy over the marks using paint or to even paint around that, but I’m hoping to visit the goats on Wednesday to get started. I’m really glad that we were able to visit the goats because I would not have been able to come up with an idea incorporating goats.
Also, I’m still considering a side project with my dog, Mango, because I’d like for the class to see how sweet he is at home. I’m still considering just a simple photography that documents how adorable, cuddly, and loving he is with my husband and I. I think that this would still be a close form of collaboration since it’s a side of him that no one in class will ever see and it’s very close and personal. I’ve already begun to take pictures so that is the closest to a project that I’ve started so far.
[Write Comment]
Ongoing WEekly Assignment 5/19
By Brianna Acuesta (05/18/14 15:36:49)
Related animals: Dog, Goat
This past week my husband and I decided to start gardening with what limited space we have in our "backyard" in family housing. We went to Home Depot to buy plants, seeds, soil, and, most importantly, pots to paint on. Whenever an artistic opportunity like this has come up during this quarter I've immediately considered a way to make it an interspecies collaboration since I've been having so much trouble finding an idea that I'm passionate about. Inspired by the pots and the subsistence gardening we are going to be doing (we are growing various vegetables and some fruits), which is better for the environment and ultimately animals as well, I've finally come up with a solid idea on what I'm doing for my final project. I'm going to make two, possibly three if I have time to see the goats, painted pots whose images and colors will be picked out by my dog Mango for one pot and the octopus from the REEF for the other pot.
Since Mango and the octopus have obvious differences in their ability to interact with me, I've designed different interaction methods for each animal. We take Mango to the same park a few times a week and we typically take him to three different spots: two are guaranteed places where he sniffs around and goes to the bathroom, and the other is this fenced off area that is a sort of no-leash dog area. I'm going to set up each area with a different part of the pot painting that needs to be determined. The three parts are what the image is, what color it's going to be, and where on the point it will be located. For the location, I will label each part of the pot and then take those labels and put them in different spots in the dog park area. I will do the same with the colors and the images in the different areas of the park, and whichever he sniffs at will be the one he picks. The order in which he picks them will each coincide with each other. For example, if he goes to first area and sniffs at the sun, then in the second area chooses the color blue first, and in the third area sniffs the upper left lip of the pot label, then the result will be a painted blue sun on the upper left lip of the pot. The octopus clearly will be presented with a different method, since he can't sniff nor run around the park. I'm going to create three sheets, one with the color, one with images, and one with location. I'll present him with one sheet at a time and see which of his tentacles lands on a choice first and record maybe the first five options for each sheet. I'll paint the pots just as my dog and the octopus have picked them to be painted.
Also, since this was inspired by the gardening which positively (even if minimally) affects the earth and its animals, my exhibition will feature the pots with something that I feel represents the personalities of each animal planted inside of it. I feel really good about this idea and have plans to get the input from both Mango and the octopus this week and paint the pots next week.
[Write Comment]
By Brianna Acuesta (05/18/14 15:36:49)
Related animals: Dog, Goat
This past week my husband and I decided to start gardening with what limited space we have in our "backyard" in family housing. We went to Home Depot to buy plants, seeds, soil, and, most importantly, pots to paint on. Whenever an artistic opportunity like this has come up during this quarter I've immediately considered a way to make it an interspecies collaboration since I've been having so much trouble finding an idea that I'm passionate about. Inspired by the pots and the subsistence gardening we are going to be doing (we are growing various vegetables and some fruits), which is better for the environment and ultimately animals as well, I've finally come up with a solid idea on what I'm doing for my final project. I'm going to make two, possibly three if I have time to see the goats, painted pots whose images and colors will be picked out by my dog Mango for one pot and the octopus from the REEF for the other pot.
Since Mango and the octopus have obvious differences in their ability to interact with me, I've designed different interaction methods for each animal. We take Mango to the same park a few times a week and we typically take him to three different spots: two are guaranteed places where he sniffs around and goes to the bathroom, and the other is this fenced off area that is a sort of no-leash dog area. I'm going to set up each area with a different part of the pot painting that needs to be determined. The three parts are what the image is, what color it's going to be, and where on the point it will be located. For the location, I will label each part of the pot and then take those labels and put them in different spots in the dog park area. I will do the same with the colors and the images in the different areas of the park, and whichever he sniffs at will be the one he picks. The order in which he picks them will each coincide with each other. For example, if he goes to first area and sniffs at the sun, then in the second area chooses the color blue first, and in the third area sniffs the upper left lip of the pot label, then the result will be a painted blue sun on the upper left lip of the pot. The octopus clearly will be presented with a different method, since he can't sniff nor run around the park. I'm going to create three sheets, one with the color, one with images, and one with location. I'll present him with one sheet at a time and see which of his tentacles lands on a choice first and record maybe the first five options for each sheet. I'll paint the pots just as my dog and the octopus have picked them to be painted.
Also, since this was inspired by the gardening which positively (even if minimally) affects the earth and its animals, my exhibition will feature the pots with something that I feel represents the personalities of each animal planted inside of it. I feel really good about this idea and have plans to get the input from both Mango and the octopus this week and paint the pots next week.
[Write Comment]
Operation Octopus Freedom
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/13/09 09:46:57)
Related animal: Octopus
Operation Octopus Freedom
When we visited the UCSB REEF I couldn't help but notice a few very strange things about the research being done. I noticed a stark difference between the way scientists used the animals and the way we wanted to collaborate with them. The researchers didn't seem to care about how the animals felt about being trapped in this facility. In fact, some of their research was without a doubt borderline animal cruelty. For example, the rockfish had tags embedded into their skulls, not in order to track the fish or monitor them, but rather to test how well an embedded brain tag works. It seemed rather pointless then to embed these pieces of plastic in every fish in the room.
The octopus that lives in the REEF has a long history of trying to escape. In fact, he has become so good at it that the researchers must put a heavy object on top of the tank. It is strange to think that when a scientist sees an animal trying to escape they think "how can we better trap it in our confinement" rather than "I wonder why its trying to escape" or "maybe we should set it free." If you ask me, it's pretty obvious that the octopus must be miserable inside of its tiny tank. It can probably sense its Pacific home that exists beyond the walls of the REEF not thirty yards away. My hypothetical collaboration would be to bust into the REEF, mission impossible style, steal the octopus and finally set it free. Obviously this would be a bad decision as I could risk being kicked out of school for stealing their 'property'. Instead perhaps I could hand out flyers or petitions to support the freeing of our depressed little octopus. After all, I'm pretty sure it's not an octopus' natural instinct to want to be carried around in a bottle.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/13/09 09:46:57)
Related animal: Octopus
Operation Octopus Freedom
When we visited the UCSB REEF I couldn't help but notice a few very strange things about the research being done. I noticed a stark difference between the way scientists used the animals and the way we wanted to collaborate with them. The researchers didn't seem to care about how the animals felt about being trapped in this facility. In fact, some of their research was without a doubt borderline animal cruelty. For example, the rockfish had tags embedded into their skulls, not in order to track the fish or monitor them, but rather to test how well an embedded brain tag works. It seemed rather pointless then to embed these pieces of plastic in every fish in the room.
The octopus that lives in the REEF has a long history of trying to escape. In fact, he has become so good at it that the researchers must put a heavy object on top of the tank. It is strange to think that when a scientist sees an animal trying to escape they think "how can we better trap it in our confinement" rather than "I wonder why its trying to escape" or "maybe we should set it free." If you ask me, it's pretty obvious that the octopus must be miserable inside of its tiny tank. It can probably sense its Pacific home that exists beyond the walls of the REEF not thirty yards away. My hypothetical collaboration would be to bust into the REEF, mission impossible style, steal the octopus and finally set it free. Obviously this would be a bad decision as I could risk being kicked out of school for stealing their 'property'. Instead perhaps I could hand out flyers or petitions to support the freeing of our depressed little octopus. After all, I'm pretty sure it's not an octopus' natural instinct to want to be carried around in a bottle.
[Write Comment]
Owls
By Masha Lifshin (06/12/09 19:13:21)
29 April 2009. Harder Stadium.
I'm at the studios under Harder stadium around twilight, walking around the East bleachers to the loading zone driveway door. A bird, a small one that looked like seabird, was on the field. We noticed each other. As I began to turn the key and open the studio door the bird suddenly began to call, piercingly and repeatedly. At that moment, I somehow instantly leaned my head back to look upwards. An owl was winging its way over the field towards the pillar of the stadium lights. He perched high, high above me and we looked at each other. A minute or two passed until he flew away, magnificently. The small sea bird finally stopped calling the alarm.
I have always known the owls are up high around Harder because I have been finding their pellets since I started working in those studios last Fall. I have used the pellets in a digital artwork, http://www.mashalifshin.com/owl/owl.html Lately, I have started incorporating the pellets into object-making.
7 May 2009. Sedgwick Reserve watering trough.
Again, it's twilight and Lisa, Michael, Nathan, Hannah, and I are perched a ways up on the slope above one of the watering troughs at Sedgwick. We hear occasional hooting from the trees to our left. Suddenly an owl swoops away over our heads. A minute later, another one does the same. I think they had the heart-shaped faces of barn owls.
[Write Comment]
By Masha Lifshin (06/12/09 19:13:21)
29 April 2009. Harder Stadium.
I'm at the studios under Harder stadium around twilight, walking around the East bleachers to the loading zone driveway door. A bird, a small one that looked like seabird, was on the field. We noticed each other. As I began to turn the key and open the studio door the bird suddenly began to call, piercingly and repeatedly. At that moment, I somehow instantly leaned my head back to look upwards. An owl was winging its way over the field towards the pillar of the stadium lights. He perched high, high above me and we looked at each other. A minute or two passed until he flew away, magnificently. The small sea bird finally stopped calling the alarm.
I have always known the owls are up high around Harder because I have been finding their pellets since I started working in those studios last Fall. I have used the pellets in a digital artwork, http://www.mashalifshin.com/owl/owl.html Lately, I have started incorporating the pellets into object-making.
7 May 2009. Sedgwick Reserve watering trough.
Again, it's twilight and Lisa, Michael, Nathan, Hannah, and I are perched a ways up on the slope above one of the watering troughs at Sedgwick. We hear occasional hooting from the trees to our left. Suddenly an owl swoops away over our heads. A minute later, another one does the same. I think they had the heart-shaped faces of barn owls.
[Write Comment]
Parrots, Cockatoos and Macaws
By Ashley Dawkins-Garcia (05/14/09 12:23:35)
Related animals: Cockatoo, Macaw, Parrot
Type of Parrots
• African Grey Parrot- Cling to one person. Can imitate humans and non-humans.
• Amazon Parrot-Good at talking and imitating sounds. Intellect of a 3 yrs old, dolphin or monkey. Very energetic, playful, moody and social creature. Loud, cuddly, quiet, stubborn, silly, jealous, playfully aggressive or irritable. Eats fruit and vegetables.
• Eclectus Parrot- Can sing songs and talk to humans and bird companions. Eats fruit, vegetables, sprouted seeds and beans, brown rice, high-fiber cereals and pellets.
• Green Parrot- Eats selected seeds, high quality proteins, carbohydrates, lean chicken and boiled vegetables. Affectionate, inquisitive and can be easily trained.
• Quaker Parrot- Loves to play amusing little games. Highly intelligent. Loves to heard “Goooood Bird” or “Pretty Baaaaaby.”
• Senegal Parrot- Can talk and imitate. More accurate in pitch and tone. Eats sunflower, safflower, pine nuts, oats, hemp, millet and canary.
General Information
• Parrots are – Intelligent animals who depend on some degree of socialization and will not be good pets unless they are taught and patterned to be good pets. Good training is therefore vital to make these parrots bond with you. It’s very important to understand your parrot’s needs and intelligence, physical and psychological. Parrots belong to the family Psittacidae. All parrots are zygodactyl, having the four toes on each foot placed two at the front and two back. Along with the cockatoo family (the Cacatuidae), the parrot family makes up the order Psittaciformes. Confusingly, the term parrot can be used in either the narrow sense of the parrot family Psittacidae or the broad sense of the order Psittaciformes.
Many species can imitate human speech or other sounds, and at least one researcher, Irene Pepperberg has made controversial claims for the learning ability of one species; an African Grey Parrot Alex, has been trained to use words to identify objects, describe them, count them, and even answer complex questions such as "How many red squares?" (with over 80% accuracy). Many other scholars claim that parrots are only repeating words with no idea of their meanings and point to Pepperberg's results as being nothing but an expression of operant conditioning.
Type of Macaws
• Blue and Gold Macaw- Very intelligent and good talkers. They balk initially but adjust very quickly. Very loud. Eats fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts, cheese and chicken. Very demanding and can be aggressive or pluck.
• Hahns Macaw- Playful and talkative. Eats fruits, seeds, berries and nuts.
• Hyacinth Macaw- Eats nuts of certain palms, palm nutshells and strips of palm fronds. Affectionate, sweet disposition and very strong. Smart and inquisitive.
• Scarlet Macaw- Eats fruits, nuts, flowers and nectar. Picks up a limited number of words very quickly. Extremely intelligent and a very talented talker. It is social and friendly to people it has known for a very long time.
General Information
• Macaws – They are native to Mexico, Central America, South America and formerly the Caribbean. Most species are associated with forest, especially rainforest, but others prefer woodland or savanna-like habits. Macaws have been said to live for up to 100 years; however, an average of 50 years is probably more accurate. The larger macaws may live up to 65 years. Macaws are ready to breed when they are about 7 or 8 years old.
• Macaws are known to eat clay. This is antidote to poisonous seeds they eat. The chemicals in the clay mix with the poison allowing it to pass through the bird’s digestive system without harming the bird. Can live up from 20 to 50 years old. To have a macaw is a life-long commitment. A pet macaw will need frequent interaction, handling and love just as humans do. A lack of attention and love will result in mental and physical suffering (such as pulling out their feathers). Like children, they need supervision or they could harm others such as children and adults since these creatures are powerful (their break can break a human finger).
Type of Cockatoos
• Goffin Cockatoo- Fun-loving, very gentle disposition, clever, loving, curious, playful and energetic. Fair talker but some talk extensively.
• Moluccan Cockatoo- Very intelligent and sensitive. Eats fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and pellets. Mimic human speech. Acts more like a dog. “Lap bird.”
• Umberella Cockatoo- Loves to cuddle and forms strong bonds with owners. Intelligent, social, good-natured, active, acrobatic and very affectionate. Can live to 80 years old.
General Information
• There are 17 (21 in total) other types of cockatoos. Well-raised cockatoos are adorable; a hog for attention, a socialite, and just a pleasure to have around. The family of cockatoos has an Australasian distribution, ranging from the Philippines and the eastern Indonesian islands of Wallacea to New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Australia.
• Cockatoos are generally large to medium sized parrots, with one species, the Cockatiel, being quite smaller than the other species. They are not early risers, instead waiting until the sun has warmed their roosting sites before feeding. They are highly social and will roost, forage and travel together, often in large flocks. They prefer roosting sites that are sometimes located near drinking sites, but many species may travel great distances between the roosting sites and feeding sites.
Cockatoos are known as one of the most affectionate species of birds. The term "velcro bird" is often used to describe their affectionate behavior which so endears them to humans. They are birds who usually bond to a mate strongly and for life. It is this characteristic which enables them to be so loving to a human. Like macaws, these birds need a lot of attention and interaction (about 4 to 6 hours). Without constant attention, the cockatoo will become ill and stressed, which will result to pulling out their feathers, to a point that they will go mentally insane. Their cages should be in an area where they can see all the activity that is going on within the family and they should be allowed to be out of their cage and played with each day.
[Write Comment]
By Ashley Dawkins-Garcia (05/14/09 12:23:35)
Related animals: Cockatoo, Macaw, Parrot
Type of Parrots
• African Grey Parrot- Cling to one person. Can imitate humans and non-humans.
• Amazon Parrot-Good at talking and imitating sounds. Intellect of a 3 yrs old, dolphin or monkey. Very energetic, playful, moody and social creature. Loud, cuddly, quiet, stubborn, silly, jealous, playfully aggressive or irritable. Eats fruit and vegetables.
• Eclectus Parrot- Can sing songs and talk to humans and bird companions. Eats fruit, vegetables, sprouted seeds and beans, brown rice, high-fiber cereals and pellets.
• Green Parrot- Eats selected seeds, high quality proteins, carbohydrates, lean chicken and boiled vegetables. Affectionate, inquisitive and can be easily trained.
• Quaker Parrot- Loves to play amusing little games. Highly intelligent. Loves to heard “Goooood Bird” or “Pretty Baaaaaby.”
• Senegal Parrot- Can talk and imitate. More accurate in pitch and tone. Eats sunflower, safflower, pine nuts, oats, hemp, millet and canary.
General Information
• Parrots are – Intelligent animals who depend on some degree of socialization and will not be good pets unless they are taught and patterned to be good pets. Good training is therefore vital to make these parrots bond with you. It’s very important to understand your parrot’s needs and intelligence, physical and psychological. Parrots belong to the family Psittacidae. All parrots are zygodactyl, having the four toes on each foot placed two at the front and two back. Along with the cockatoo family (the Cacatuidae), the parrot family makes up the order Psittaciformes. Confusingly, the term parrot can be used in either the narrow sense of the parrot family Psittacidae or the broad sense of the order Psittaciformes.
Many species can imitate human speech or other sounds, and at least one researcher, Irene Pepperberg has made controversial claims for the learning ability of one species; an African Grey Parrot Alex, has been trained to use words to identify objects, describe them, count them, and even answer complex questions such as "How many red squares?" (with over 80% accuracy). Many other scholars claim that parrots are only repeating words with no idea of their meanings and point to Pepperberg's results as being nothing but an expression of operant conditioning.
Type of Macaws
• Blue and Gold Macaw- Very intelligent and good talkers. They balk initially but adjust very quickly. Very loud. Eats fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts, cheese and chicken. Very demanding and can be aggressive or pluck.
• Hahns Macaw- Playful and talkative. Eats fruits, seeds, berries and nuts.
• Hyacinth Macaw- Eats nuts of certain palms, palm nutshells and strips of palm fronds. Affectionate, sweet disposition and very strong. Smart and inquisitive.
• Scarlet Macaw- Eats fruits, nuts, flowers and nectar. Picks up a limited number of words very quickly. Extremely intelligent and a very talented talker. It is social and friendly to people it has known for a very long time.
General Information
• Macaws – They are native to Mexico, Central America, South America and formerly the Caribbean. Most species are associated with forest, especially rainforest, but others prefer woodland or savanna-like habits. Macaws have been said to live for up to 100 years; however, an average of 50 years is probably more accurate. The larger macaws may live up to 65 years. Macaws are ready to breed when they are about 7 or 8 years old.
• Macaws are known to eat clay. This is antidote to poisonous seeds they eat. The chemicals in the clay mix with the poison allowing it to pass through the bird’s digestive system without harming the bird. Can live up from 20 to 50 years old. To have a macaw is a life-long commitment. A pet macaw will need frequent interaction, handling and love just as humans do. A lack of attention and love will result in mental and physical suffering (such as pulling out their feathers). Like children, they need supervision or they could harm others such as children and adults since these creatures are powerful (their break can break a human finger).
Type of Cockatoos
• Goffin Cockatoo- Fun-loving, very gentle disposition, clever, loving, curious, playful and energetic. Fair talker but some talk extensively.
• Moluccan Cockatoo- Very intelligent and sensitive. Eats fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and pellets. Mimic human speech. Acts more like a dog. “Lap bird.”
• Umberella Cockatoo- Loves to cuddle and forms strong bonds with owners. Intelligent, social, good-natured, active, acrobatic and very affectionate. Can live to 80 years old.
General Information
• There are 17 (21 in total) other types of cockatoos. Well-raised cockatoos are adorable; a hog for attention, a socialite, and just a pleasure to have around. The family of cockatoos has an Australasian distribution, ranging from the Philippines and the eastern Indonesian islands of Wallacea to New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Australia.
• Cockatoos are generally large to medium sized parrots, with one species, the Cockatiel, being quite smaller than the other species. They are not early risers, instead waiting until the sun has warmed their roosting sites before feeding. They are highly social and will roost, forage and travel together, often in large flocks. They prefer roosting sites that are sometimes located near drinking sites, but many species may travel great distances between the roosting sites and feeding sites.
Cockatoos are known as one of the most affectionate species of birds. The term "velcro bird" is often used to describe their affectionate behavior which so endears them to humans. They are birds who usually bond to a mate strongly and for life. It is this characteristic which enables them to be so loving to a human. Like macaws, these birds need a lot of attention and interaction (about 4 to 6 hours). Without constant attention, the cockatoo will become ill and stressed, which will result to pulling out their feathers, to a point that they will go mentally insane. Their cages should be in an area where they can see all the activity that is going on within the family and they should be allowed to be out of their cage and played with each day.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Play Behavior
Personal Interaction with Dolphins
By Jorden Hirsch (06/03/10 16:05:01)
Related animal: Dolphin
Over Memorial day weekend I was able to enjoy a great weekend and found myself at Santa Claus beach in Santa Barbara having my own personal obsservation and interaction of play with dolphins. I was making a sand castle right near the water and noticed 2 dolphins incredibly closed to the shore, I was so happy, as people always are when they see dolphins. I went back to doing my castle, figuring that the doplhins would have passed. And then when I looked again about 5 minutes later they were still playing, this was really suprising to me because usually when I have seen them at the beach the pass pretty quickly. I found my self walking and following them up and down the beach as they moved back in fourth playing in their small pod. It was a great experience to add to my memorial day weekend.
[Write Comment]
By Jorden Hirsch (06/03/10 16:05:01)
Related animal: Dolphin
Over Memorial day weekend I was able to enjoy a great weekend and found myself at Santa Claus beach in Santa Barbara having my own personal obsservation and interaction of play with dolphins. I was making a sand castle right near the water and noticed 2 dolphins incredibly closed to the shore, I was so happy, as people always are when they see dolphins. I went back to doing my castle, figuring that the doplhins would have passed. And then when I looked again about 5 minutes later they were still playing, this was really suprising to me because usually when I have seen them at the beach the pass pretty quickly. I found my self walking and following them up and down the beach as they moved back in fourth playing in their small pod. It was a great experience to add to my memorial day weekend.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Art Interspecies Collaborations
Pig farm
By Michael Walter Lambert (04/12/09 19:15:33)
Related animal: Pig
I enjoyed our trip to the pig farm. The pigs were far more intelligent than I thought they would be. It was my first real interaction with pigs. I thought they might be more aggressive but due to their old age perhaps I didn't get a fair sample of healthy young pig behavior. I was unaware of the different kinds of pigs that there are. I noticed a nice variation of pigs at the farm-big, small, black, white, and spotted. One of the bigger thrills was seeing the 1000 lb pig. Due to their age not many of the pigs were healthy. It was fascinating that they liked their bellies rubbed like dogs! It was funny to see the farm dogs "police" the pigs. Not too sure of a collaborative project at this point. Perhaps a pig day spa with belly scratchers, nail and tusk trimming, mud and soft places to lay in the sun. Maybe study day to day pig behavior.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Walter Lambert (04/12/09 19:15:33)
Related animal: Pig
I enjoyed our trip to the pig farm. The pigs were far more intelligent than I thought they would be. It was my first real interaction with pigs. I thought they might be more aggressive but due to their old age perhaps I didn't get a fair sample of healthy young pig behavior. I was unaware of the different kinds of pigs that there are. I noticed a nice variation of pigs at the farm-big, small, black, white, and spotted. One of the bigger thrills was seeing the 1000 lb pig. Due to their age not many of the pigs were healthy. It was fascinating that they liked their bellies rubbed like dogs! It was funny to see the farm dogs "police" the pigs. Not too sure of a collaborative project at this point. Perhaps a pig day spa with belly scratchers, nail and tusk trimming, mud and soft places to lay in the sun. Maybe study day to day pig behavior.
[Write Comment]
Other: Other Related Research
Pig Farm
By Heather Sielke (05/02/10 12:24:19)
Related animal: Pot-Bellied Pig
Lil Orphan Hammies in Solvang is a place where people have been taking potbellied pigs when they can no longer take care of them. Sue Parkinson is their caretaker and she is no longer taking in smaller/ younger pigs because she is finally becoming tired and wants to retire. Some of the pigs included Michael Jackson's pig and the pig from when Magic Mountain had a petting zoo. The pigs there range from being the size of a pug to being the size of a mid size bear. Oreo was the largest one that I saw and it was the most mobile in my opinion. It love to have attention and was always wanting to be rubbed. Sue has separated the pig that are older and cannot get around from the more mobile and fighting pigs. They have a large area that they can go but usually Sue says do not go that far. Sue knows most if not all by name and their histories. When Lisa told us to try and communicate with one of the pigs for twenty minutes I found a pig near the fence and was going to try and communicate like we had learned from Barbara but then all of a sudden it walked away really fast. I thought maybe it just did not want to communicate with me but all of the pigs were rushing into a line and going to get fed. It was weird to see them altogether. It was because to of my classmates had a paper and when the paper was crinkled it sounded like their feed bags so they thought it was time to get fed. Sue fed them and they all fought over the food. These pigs made sounds to communicate with each other which sounds quite interesting.
[Write Comment]
By Heather Sielke (05/02/10 12:24:19)
Related animal: Pot-Bellied Pig
Lil Orphan Hammies in Solvang is a place where people have been taking potbellied pigs when they can no longer take care of them. Sue Parkinson is their caretaker and she is no longer taking in smaller/ younger pigs because she is finally becoming tired and wants to retire. Some of the pigs included Michael Jackson's pig and the pig from when Magic Mountain had a petting zoo. The pigs there range from being the size of a pug to being the size of a mid size bear. Oreo was the largest one that I saw and it was the most mobile in my opinion. It love to have attention and was always wanting to be rubbed. Sue has separated the pig that are older and cannot get around from the more mobile and fighting pigs. They have a large area that they can go but usually Sue says do not go that far. Sue knows most if not all by name and their histories. When Lisa told us to try and communicate with one of the pigs for twenty minutes I found a pig near the fence and was going to try and communicate like we had learned from Barbara but then all of a sudden it walked away really fast. I thought maybe it just did not want to communicate with me but all of the pigs were rushing into a line and going to get fed. It was weird to see them altogether. It was because to of my classmates had a paper and when the paper was crinkled it sounded like their feed bags so they thought it was time to get fed. Sue fed them and they all fought over the food. These pigs made sounds to communicate with each other which sounds quite interesting.
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Pig Sanctuary
By Jenna Ferri (04/27/10 23:32:21)
Related animal: Pot-Bellied Pig
The pig sanctuary was quite an enlightening experience. It really touched on the point the bird women spoke about how we are prejudice to cute animals. When the pot-bellied pigs were small and pet-friendly, the humans were willing to collaborate with them in their houses. When they grew larger and less attractive, they became undesirable.
It was during my experience I learned how easy these pigs were to bond with. Once one got past their appearances, they were very willing and lovable animals. One instance in particular stuck out. Jeff was standing there and one of the pigs came up to him to smell his shoes. Once it decided he liked this smell, he laid down right on top of Jeff's feet and snuggled up. It was so inspiring to see how willing they were to trust us, even though they had all been betrayed by humans before. They were re-training us pay attention to the small details we had forgotten.
I have attached a photo of Jeff with the pig to show just how trusting this pig was.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (06/14/10 17:17:24):
:-D
By Jenna Ferri (04/27/10 23:32:21)
Related animal: Pot-Bellied Pig
The pig sanctuary was quite an enlightening experience. It really touched on the point the bird women spoke about how we are prejudice to cute animals. When the pot-bellied pigs were small and pet-friendly, the humans were willing to collaborate with them in their houses. When they grew larger and less attractive, they became undesirable.
It was during my experience I learned how easy these pigs were to bond with. Once one got past their appearances, they were very willing and lovable animals. One instance in particular stuck out. Jeff was standing there and one of the pigs came up to him to smell his shoes. Once it decided he liked this smell, he laid down right on top of Jeff's feet and snuggled up. It was so inspiring to see how willing they were to trust us, even though they had all been betrayed by humans before. They were re-training us pay attention to the small details we had forgotten.
I have attached a photo of Jeff with the pig to show just how trusting this pig was.
the pig snuggling with jeff | 
pig smelling jeff's shoes |
Comment by LisaJ (06/14/10 17:17:24):
:-D
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Planet Earth moment at the beach
By Andrea Chase (05/12/10 14:32:27)
Related animals: Hawk, Mice
At the beach this weekend I was struck by awe when I saw the most beautiful hawk hovering, still less in the wind in the sky above me. The Hawk had a 5 foot wingspan, it was quite amazing and awe-inspiring, the ability to be so perfectly still riding the wind. I grew jealous, to be so free and playful in the wind. At first I was worried the Hawk was attempting to scoop down and grab by dog ziggy, it seemed to be staring right at us! Ultimately I realized that the Hawk was searching for something in the cliffs that juxtaposed the beach. No less than a minute later the Hawk dove down like a directed bullet right to the cliff side. Looping back up the Hawk had retrieved a field Mouse from its discreet nesting place on the cliff. The poor Mouse squirmed for the remainder of it's life in the Hawk's clutches. Eventually I could no longer watch the struggle as the Hawk began to get frustrated with the Mouse's tenacity. Although the Hawk won the battle for survival in this case, it was just a reminder to me of how human's have constructed an odd world disengaged from the idea of survival of the fittest. Human's ( at least in the privledged United States) are distinctly living in a socially enacted world removed from the daily struggle for life in terms of fighting off predators. A thought that had never occurred to me until now has now consumed my perception of how easily human's now live and reap the benefits of the earth with no real check and balance.
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (05/12/10 14:32:27)
Related animals: Hawk, Mice
At the beach this weekend I was struck by awe when I saw the most beautiful hawk hovering, still less in the wind in the sky above me. The Hawk had a 5 foot wingspan, it was quite amazing and awe-inspiring, the ability to be so perfectly still riding the wind. I grew jealous, to be so free and playful in the wind. At first I was worried the Hawk was attempting to scoop down and grab by dog ziggy, it seemed to be staring right at us! Ultimately I realized that the Hawk was searching for something in the cliffs that juxtaposed the beach. No less than a minute later the Hawk dove down like a directed bullet right to the cliff side. Looping back up the Hawk had retrieved a field Mouse from its discreet nesting place on the cliff. The poor Mouse squirmed for the remainder of it's life in the Hawk's clutches. Eventually I could no longer watch the struggle as the Hawk began to get frustrated with the Mouse's tenacity. Although the Hawk won the battle for survival in this case, it was just a reminder to me of how human's have constructed an odd world disengaged from the idea of survival of the fittest. Human's ( at least in the privledged United States) are distinctly living in a socially enacted world removed from the daily struggle for life in terms of fighting off predators. A thought that had never occurred to me until now has now consumed my perception of how easily human's now live and reap the benefits of the earth with no real check and balance.
[Write Comment]
Possible Dolphin Project Ideas
By Norah Eldredge (05/18/10 09:59:27)
Related animal: Dolphin
For me, the most interactive and collaborative way to communicate with the dolphins wouldn't necessarily happen on the boat or when we are in the presence of the dolphins. While we are on the boat I am going to try and just experience what is going on, experience and write down what I feel and what I am getting from the adventure.
I really want to try and incorporate these emotions and experiences into writing. I have been revisiting writing a lot, and would to figure out how to collaborate with dolphins in this way. I am still not really sure how to do this, maybe a class discussion to day will help!
[Write Comment]
By Norah Eldredge (05/18/10 09:59:27)
Related animal: Dolphin
For me, the most interactive and collaborative way to communicate with the dolphins wouldn't necessarily happen on the boat or when we are in the presence of the dolphins. While we are on the boat I am going to try and just experience what is going on, experience and write down what I feel and what I am getting from the adventure.
I really want to try and incorporate these emotions and experiences into writing. I have been revisiting writing a lot, and would to figure out how to collaborate with dolphins in this way. I am still not really sure how to do this, maybe a class discussion to day will help!
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Other Related Research
Powerful Concepts from our Discussion with Deke Weaver
By Rachel Fleming (04/14/14 17:50:18)
Related animal: Wolf
The performance "The Wolf" by Deke Weaver first struck me as confusing but intriguing. During the course of the performance I felt myself getting absorbed by a swarm of ideas and meanings. I didn't feel like I understood a lot of what was going on, but I kept trying as it went along to piece things together and find connections. Some parts were deep enough to where I felt like I needed to bring myself back to reality. I was curious about some things like the glasses, the dances in the video, and various sounds. There seemed to be no clear answers until the discussion at the end, when I was able to piece together why he did some things in a particular way.
Through the discussion I was able to find answers to my questions solely by listening to Deke's insightful comments and elaborations.
Three ideas particularly stood out to me:
1. The idea that there is a desirable emotion associated with not being given an answer and having a sort of "shock" when confronted with something we cannot explain based on our current knowledge. This idea really resonated with me. Earlier today I was watching YouTube videos explaining quantum mechanics and was getting very frustrated (especially since this week I didn't understand the lectures on this topic and couldn't get help from my professor or a TA). It was not enjoyable for me to not have answers right in front of me. Deke's comments about the experience of self-discovery and surprise made me feel like I could use this approach to calm my frustrations and make my search for knowledge more enjoyable.
I also imagine that this is the feeling a lot of research scientists long for, since it probably means that there is a chance they are observing something new, important, and interesting for all of science.
2. The idea that cultural associations with animals shapes our actions and attitudes toward them. I had been aware of this idea in the back of my mind but hearing it described in a new way helped me to really understand the complete separation between the real animal and the human perception of it. Although I like animals a lot, there are probably still biased in my own thinking that are influenced by societal views.
3. The fact that Deke has uncertainty at times about the impact of his work on audiences relates to struggles I go through every day. I often question what impact my hard work will have on society, the environment, and in the grand scheme of things. Sometimes I wonder how my current and future contributions to science will be used, and who will fund them. I wonder if I'll be lucky enough to contribute a sentence to an undergraduate textbook, or if my work will be more interesting than useful. The fact that Deke also expressed on-and-off uncertainties he has about his work, but continues anyway, was inspiring.
[Write Comment]
By Rachel Fleming (04/14/14 17:50:18)
Related animal: Wolf
The performance "The Wolf" by Deke Weaver first struck me as confusing but intriguing. During the course of the performance I felt myself getting absorbed by a swarm of ideas and meanings. I didn't feel like I understood a lot of what was going on, but I kept trying as it went along to piece things together and find connections. Some parts were deep enough to where I felt like I needed to bring myself back to reality. I was curious about some things like the glasses, the dances in the video, and various sounds. There seemed to be no clear answers until the discussion at the end, when I was able to piece together why he did some things in a particular way.
Through the discussion I was able to find answers to my questions solely by listening to Deke's insightful comments and elaborations.
Three ideas particularly stood out to me:
1. The idea that there is a desirable emotion associated with not being given an answer and having a sort of "shock" when confronted with something we cannot explain based on our current knowledge. This idea really resonated with me. Earlier today I was watching YouTube videos explaining quantum mechanics and was getting very frustrated (especially since this week I didn't understand the lectures on this topic and couldn't get help from my professor or a TA). It was not enjoyable for me to not have answers right in front of me. Deke's comments about the experience of self-discovery and surprise made me feel like I could use this approach to calm my frustrations and make my search for knowledge more enjoyable.
I also imagine that this is the feeling a lot of research scientists long for, since it probably means that there is a chance they are observing something new, important, and interesting for all of science.
2. The idea that cultural associations with animals shapes our actions and attitudes toward them. I had been aware of this idea in the back of my mind but hearing it described in a new way helped me to really understand the complete separation between the real animal and the human perception of it. Although I like animals a lot, there are probably still biased in my own thinking that are influenced by societal views.
3. The fact that Deke has uncertainty at times about the impact of his work on audiences relates to struggles I go through every day. I often question what impact my hard work will have on society, the environment, and in the grand scheme of things. Sometimes I wonder how my current and future contributions to science will be used, and who will fund them. I wonder if I'll be lucky enough to contribute a sentence to an undergraduate textbook, or if my work will be more interesting than useful. The fact that Deke also expressed on-and-off uncertainties he has about his work, but continues anyway, was inspiring.
[Write Comment]
Project Ideas
By Martin C. Shaver (04/08/10 11:33:39)
Related animal: Dog
Project Ideas
I have yet to hammer out one single idea for what project I am going to do involving the collaboration with animals. I'm thinking of two separate ones at the moment. The first idea i was thinking up was working with either raccoons, skunks, or both. the idea behind this was that they are both relatively cute animals, but they are scavengers and have some qualities people don't look for in pets, including possible rabies and smelly glands. Nonetheless, they are cute and also plentiful here in IV. I get a lot of visits from these animals at my house at the early part of the 65 block on Del Playa. They like to wander into my front and back yards and fiddle around with our trash. One particular thing of interest of the raccoons is that there is a gazebo out back of my house where two of my roommates live and raccoons like to climb up the later on the side of it, onto the roof. for some reason however, there are apparently raccoon battles that go on there. it seems that they just go up there to fight one another. interestingly though, there is absolutely nothing up there that they should be fighting over, just a blank, shingled, octagonal shaped roof. (i found this particularly funny because of the parallel drawn between a octagon fighting surface in mixed martial art competitions and the octagonal roof that these raccoons fight atop. the idea i would have for a project involving these raccoons would be to track them and see why they fight on top of this roof every so often.
the second and third ideas i have are in development is with dogs at the dog shelter. i want to go and interact with them and see if i can establish a relationship with a few of the dogs and see if i could track a change in their behavior based on regular interactions.
these are the ideas i have so far, but i'm interested in seeing how they develop.
[Write Comment]
By Martin C. Shaver (04/08/10 11:33:39)
Related animal: Dog
Project Ideas
I have yet to hammer out one single idea for what project I am going to do involving the collaboration with animals. I'm thinking of two separate ones at the moment. The first idea i was thinking up was working with either raccoons, skunks, or both. the idea behind this was that they are both relatively cute animals, but they are scavengers and have some qualities people don't look for in pets, including possible rabies and smelly glands. Nonetheless, they are cute and also plentiful here in IV. I get a lot of visits from these animals at my house at the early part of the 65 block on Del Playa. They like to wander into my front and back yards and fiddle around with our trash. One particular thing of interest of the raccoons is that there is a gazebo out back of my house where two of my roommates live and raccoons like to climb up the later on the side of it, onto the roof. for some reason however, there are apparently raccoon battles that go on there. it seems that they just go up there to fight one another. interestingly though, there is absolutely nothing up there that they should be fighting over, just a blank, shingled, octagonal shaped roof. (i found this particularly funny because of the parallel drawn between a octagon fighting surface in mixed martial art competitions and the octagonal roof that these raccoons fight atop. the idea i would have for a project involving these raccoons would be to track them and see why they fight on top of this roof every so often.
the second and third ideas i have are in development is with dogs at the dog shelter. i want to go and interact with them and see if i can establish a relationship with a few of the dogs and see if i could track a change in their behavior based on regular interactions.
these are the ideas i have so far, but i'm interested in seeing how they develop.
[Write Comment]
Project Ideas
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:33:45)
Interspecies Collaboration Week 4
I have a few ideas I can’t decide between for my interspecies collaboration final project. The first one was that I wanted to go around Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, and Big Bear Lake in search for dead animals. As I adventured around these various cities I would look for and collect the bodies of these animals and try to determine their death and then use the bodies of the animals to make people aware of many things they do wrong to animals that harm them and sometimes bring them to an early death. It’s pretty much the Sarah McLaughlin commercial without the sad music and depressing pictures. I’m not really sure how I want to represent this but that’s the start of my first idea. My second idea mainly has to do with sounds and hearing for animals. My mom is the veterinarian at the zoo in Big Bear and I visit her a lot so I was thinking of doing a project with the inhabitants of the Big Bear Animal Park. I first want to go around to 5-8 different species of animals and record their sounds for two hours each. Then I want to take those recordings and play them to a different species and record their reactions. For example, at the zoo right now there are two Bald Eagles named Alaska and Valentine. I want to sit next to their cage and record the sounds of their movements, screeching, eating, and any other noises that they make during the two hours. I then want to take this two hour recording and play it loud next to the pack of wolves to observe how they react to the sounds of the bald eagles if at all. During the playback for the pack of wolves I will video record the wolves’ reactions to the Bald Eagles. For this auditory project I would like to record and playback during various times of the day to get a range of reactions from the animals. I hope to observe many predatorial reactions and maybe even some violent or loving displays towards the sounds that the species of animals hear.
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:33:45)
Interspecies Collaboration Week 4
I have a few ideas I can’t decide between for my interspecies collaboration final project. The first one was that I wanted to go around Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, and Big Bear Lake in search for dead animals. As I adventured around these various cities I would look for and collect the bodies of these animals and try to determine their death and then use the bodies of the animals to make people aware of many things they do wrong to animals that harm them and sometimes bring them to an early death. It’s pretty much the Sarah McLaughlin commercial without the sad music and depressing pictures. I’m not really sure how I want to represent this but that’s the start of my first idea. My second idea mainly has to do with sounds and hearing for animals. My mom is the veterinarian at the zoo in Big Bear and I visit her a lot so I was thinking of doing a project with the inhabitants of the Big Bear Animal Park. I first want to go around to 5-8 different species of animals and record their sounds for two hours each. Then I want to take those recordings and play them to a different species and record their reactions. For example, at the zoo right now there are two Bald Eagles named Alaska and Valentine. I want to sit next to their cage and record the sounds of their movements, screeching, eating, and any other noises that they make during the two hours. I then want to take this two hour recording and play it loud next to the pack of wolves to observe how they react to the sounds of the bald eagles if at all. During the playback for the pack of wolves I will video record the wolves’ reactions to the Bald Eagles. For this auditory project I would like to record and playback during various times of the day to get a range of reactions from the animals. I hope to observe many predatorial reactions and maybe even some violent or loving displays towards the sounds that the species of animals hear.
[Write Comment]
Project Information
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:36:17)
Interspecies Audio Interactions
Unfortunately, this weekend, I was unable to make it back up to the Animal Park in Big Bear Lake like I had originally planned. I wanted to go back to the animal park and play sounds I had recorded from various animals and play them to completely different species. While I played these sounds, I would record the animals reactions with video. Instead of doing that this weekend I did more research on the sounds made by some of the animals that I’m working with for this project. Valentine and Alaska are two of the Bald Eagles I recorded sounds from at the Big Bear Animal Park so I did more research on the hearing and calls of Bald Eagles. American Bald Eagles do not have vocal chords, but instead use their “syrinx”, which is a bone chamber placed where the windpipe divides into the lungs in order to make their staccato- like calls. The Bald Eagles high pitched shrills and strong chirping are used in order to reinforce the relationship with their mate and also to warn all other animals that this is their territory. Found with a broken wing in 2007, Tremor, the burrowing owl, was one of my favorite species to record because he made many strange sounds and movements during recording. Burrowing Owls are appropriately named because they live in burrows underground. These burrows are often times already dug out by their previous inhabitants such as prairie dogs and squirrels. When I first started recording Tremor, he was hidden away in a hole and made rattling sounds very close to that of a rattle snake. This sound is to ward off any animal trying to take over the burrow. This rattling sound is pretty effective because it even made me believe there was also a snake in the burrow, and I freaked out a little standing about a foot away from it. When Tremor finally came out of the hole he started making chattering calls that were fast and sounded like a pretty obnoxious laugh. Like most owls, the Burrowing Owl’s hearing is about ten times better than humans. This is so they can hear and find their prey during the night. One of the most intriguing animals at the Big Bear Animal Park was Aurora the Arctic Fox. She was found by animal control in April 2012 on the rooftop of a house in Beverly Hills and brought to the animal park for rehabilitation. Aurora was pretty shy at first, but fortunately I was able to get some calls out of her after a few hours of sitting there. Aurora’s calls sounded like a broken up howl. Not like a wolf howl, but more like a coyote’s lighter pitched howl. It’s not a very pleasant sound at all and Aurora’s calls did become pretty loud at one point. The Arctic Fox has a very keen sense of hearing which they use to find and listen to prey beneath the surface of the snow and ice. When they locate the small animals, they pounce through the snow to grab the prey with their teeth and feet.
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:36:17)
Interspecies Audio Interactions
Unfortunately, this weekend, I was unable to make it back up to the Animal Park in Big Bear Lake like I had originally planned. I wanted to go back to the animal park and play sounds I had recorded from various animals and play them to completely different species. While I played these sounds, I would record the animals reactions with video. Instead of doing that this weekend I did more research on the sounds made by some of the animals that I’m working with for this project. Valentine and Alaska are two of the Bald Eagles I recorded sounds from at the Big Bear Animal Park so I did more research on the hearing and calls of Bald Eagles. American Bald Eagles do not have vocal chords, but instead use their “syrinx”, which is a bone chamber placed where the windpipe divides into the lungs in order to make their staccato- like calls. The Bald Eagles high pitched shrills and strong chirping are used in order to reinforce the relationship with their mate and also to warn all other animals that this is their territory. Found with a broken wing in 2007, Tremor, the burrowing owl, was one of my favorite species to record because he made many strange sounds and movements during recording. Burrowing Owls are appropriately named because they live in burrows underground. These burrows are often times already dug out by their previous inhabitants such as prairie dogs and squirrels. When I first started recording Tremor, he was hidden away in a hole and made rattling sounds very close to that of a rattle snake. This sound is to ward off any animal trying to take over the burrow. This rattling sound is pretty effective because it even made me believe there was also a snake in the burrow, and I freaked out a little standing about a foot away from it. When Tremor finally came out of the hole he started making chattering calls that were fast and sounded like a pretty obnoxious laugh. Like most owls, the Burrowing Owl’s hearing is about ten times better than humans. This is so they can hear and find their prey during the night. One of the most intriguing animals at the Big Bear Animal Park was Aurora the Arctic Fox. She was found by animal control in April 2012 on the rooftop of a house in Beverly Hills and brought to the animal park for rehabilitation. Aurora was pretty shy at first, but fortunately I was able to get some calls out of her after a few hours of sitting there. Aurora’s calls sounded like a broken up howl. Not like a wolf howl, but more like a coyote’s lighter pitched howl. It’s not a very pleasant sound at all and Aurora’s calls did become pretty loud at one point. The Arctic Fox has a very keen sense of hearing which they use to find and listen to prey beneath the surface of the snow and ice. When they locate the small animals, they pounce through the snow to grab the prey with their teeth and feet.
[Write Comment]
Project Update
By Brianna Acuesta (04/28/14 13:13:48)
Related animal: Octopus
I have been thinking about several potential animals that I would want to work with and my mind keeps coming back to the octopus at the REEF. When we visited, they said that usually the octopus is not that active, and that seemed significant in terms of wondering whether or not the octopus would be willing to collaborate. It really seemed that they either had something to say, or they were expressing how bored they usually are and that seems grounds for finding some way to stimulate them.
I don’t have too much natural artistic ability other than photography, so I have struggled to think of a way that I could come up with an art project that would both incorporate the octopi’s movements and actually turn out looking good. A couple things that I have come up with are that I’d like to paint the octopus in a blurry way to signify its constant movements but with some tentacles whose suckers are very clear and representative of the interesting shape that they take on when they are both free from suction and suctioning (free would be a concave shape and suctioning would be completely flat). Something that also would be important to me when painting the octopus would be to paint eyes that seem knowing or smart, because octopi are very intelligent.
Another idea that came to me is that maybe I could spend some time with them and attempt to give them ribbon (with the REEF’s permission) and see how they play with it. I could then record that and study it and come up with perhaps a dance that exemplifies the movements if they are graceful, or maybe a dance that showcases the emotions the octopus seemed to be feeling as they started to play with the ribbon (for example, start off with slow movements because the octopus may be confused at first, and then progressively get faster or more entwined as the octopus really starts to play with the ribbon). This, of course, would only really work if the octopus seems to like the ribbon and if there are a range of motions to go off of.
One last idea that seems to be right up my alley is to record the octopus as they are active (I actually already have a video from that first day) and make some kind of glitch photography art featuring the octopus of course. Each glitch’s width would depend on the time between each movement. For example, if the octopus waited a little while before moving, the width might be a whole two inches, but if the time between two different movements is only a couple seconds, then the width would be much thinner in the picture.
All of these ideas are rough, of course, but I know that the only way I can start to figure out of I can even complete any of these projects is to visit the REEF again and talk to the staff and the octopus.
[Write Comment]
By Brianna Acuesta (04/28/14 13:13:48)
Related animal: Octopus
I have been thinking about several potential animals that I would want to work with and my mind keeps coming back to the octopus at the REEF. When we visited, they said that usually the octopus is not that active, and that seemed significant in terms of wondering whether or not the octopus would be willing to collaborate. It really seemed that they either had something to say, or they were expressing how bored they usually are and that seems grounds for finding some way to stimulate them.
I don’t have too much natural artistic ability other than photography, so I have struggled to think of a way that I could come up with an art project that would both incorporate the octopi’s movements and actually turn out looking good. A couple things that I have come up with are that I’d like to paint the octopus in a blurry way to signify its constant movements but with some tentacles whose suckers are very clear and representative of the interesting shape that they take on when they are both free from suction and suctioning (free would be a concave shape and suctioning would be completely flat). Something that also would be important to me when painting the octopus would be to paint eyes that seem knowing or smart, because octopi are very intelligent.
Another idea that came to me is that maybe I could spend some time with them and attempt to give them ribbon (with the REEF’s permission) and see how they play with it. I could then record that and study it and come up with perhaps a dance that exemplifies the movements if they are graceful, or maybe a dance that showcases the emotions the octopus seemed to be feeling as they started to play with the ribbon (for example, start off with slow movements because the octopus may be confused at first, and then progressively get faster or more entwined as the octopus really starts to play with the ribbon). This, of course, would only really work if the octopus seems to like the ribbon and if there are a range of motions to go off of.
One last idea that seems to be right up my alley is to record the octopus as they are active (I actually already have a video from that first day) and make some kind of glitch photography art featuring the octopus of course. Each glitch’s width would depend on the time between each movement. For example, if the octopus waited a little while before moving, the width might be a whole two inches, but if the time between two different movements is only a couple seconds, then the width would be much thinner in the picture.
All of these ideas are rough, of course, but I know that the only way I can start to figure out of I can even complete any of these projects is to visit the REEF again and talk to the staff and the octopus.
[Write Comment]
Pupy Update
By Mona Luo (05/23/14 12:11:33)
Related animal: Pupa
These past two days Pupy has become much darker in color (characteristic of a moth about to emerge), and the exterior almost papery thin. The outer shell used to be pretty firm and a red/brown color, now it is like burnt sienna. Unfortunately we are leaving for our trip tomorrow morning! I don't know what to do. I hope he emerges this afternoon, otherwise I will have to find a friend to babysit and hopefully document the process.
[Write Comment]
By Mona Luo (05/23/14 12:11:33)
Related animal: Pupa
These past two days Pupy has become much darker in color (characteristic of a moth about to emerge), and the exterior almost papery thin. The outer shell used to be pretty firm and a red/brown color, now it is like burnt sienna. Unfortunately we are leaving for our trip tomorrow morning! I don't know what to do. I hope he emerges this afternoon, otherwise I will have to find a friend to babysit and hopefully document the process.
[Write Comment]
Pupy, All Grown Up
By Mona Luo (06/01/14 22:04:11)
Related animals: Pupa, Polyphemus Moth
I picked up Pupy on August 22nd, and on May 25th, 9 months later, he emerged a beautiful and healthy moth.
When I made the move from home to school during September I packed him up in a little glass jar surrounded by tissues to keep him safe. For the next 8 months he sat in my room with little change. Sometimes I forgot he was there, other times I worried that he was dead, and every now and then I would give his jar a little tap to see if he would wiggle and do his little dance. When May rolled around I began to check on him more frequently. I knew he was supposed to come out soon, but I didn't know exactly when. In preparation for his emergence I moved him to a larger box so he would have room to stretch his wings when he came out.
The day before we left for our weekend trip to the island the skin of his casing turned very dark and almost papery to the touch. I knew he was about to come out. Briefly I considered an emergency c-section so that I would not miss his coming out, but then abandoned that idea. In the end I left him with my boyfriend to babysit and went to the island where there was spotty cell reception at best. On Saturday evening I found out that Pupy had emerged the night before and a very blurry, low resolution picture of him hanging from the stick I placed in his box. I didn't think there was much that could make me want to leave the beautiful island, but apparently seeing my little moth-baby was one of them. When I finally got back and saw him it became apparent that he was not little at all. It was strange to see his pupal casing that I had grown so familiar with torn open, sitting on the bottom of the box. Instead of my plump, wriggly little brown thing, there was now a beautiful, furry moth. I didn't want to let him go, and I will admit a part of me wanted to preserve the moth like in those insect collection mounts. And so, he sat in my room for a day because I could not bear to let him go. I felt guilty about not setting him free, but sad at the thought of seeing him go. However, I knew time was ticking because the moths only live a few days.
On Tuesday evening I brought him outside. I let him crawl onto my hand and lifted him out of the box, but he did not attempt to fly away. Then I placed him on a nearby plant and he still did not move. He just sat there with his wings spread flat. With him sitting out there in the open I worried that some bird would snatch him up as a tasty meal or a person would come by and claim him as their own, so I put him back in his box and brought him back to my room again. I still did not want to let him go. But around 11 o’clock in the evening for some reason he began to flap frantically. The sound of his wings beating against the plastic sides of the box filled me with so much panic and anguish that I rushed him outside. I opened the top and he flew out. He flew spastically in the air. I was on the 3rd floor bridge between the houses of my dorm. He crashed into the roof over and over again and it pained me to see that, but eventually he found his way to open air. Eventually he alighted on the wall and simply sat there. Then I remembered that that’s what moths do. They sit a lot. And so I had to force myself to let him be. He was certainly conspicuous sitting on the white wall under the bright lights. I check on him a handful more times before I went to bed, but each time he had not moved.
When I went to class the next morning I saw that he was not on the wall anymore. A strange wave of relief washed over me. It felt as if a great weight had been lifted off my shoulders. But then, as I walked down the stairs I saw him sitting on the side of the suspended walkway. I started worrying again about his getting eaten and the such. When I came back from class he was gone for good, but that sense of relief was gone, I just felt a little strange and sad.
[Write Comment]
By Mona Luo (06/01/14 22:04:11)
Related animals: Pupa, Polyphemus Moth
I picked up Pupy on August 22nd, and on May 25th, 9 months later, he emerged a beautiful and healthy moth.
When I made the move from home to school during September I packed him up in a little glass jar surrounded by tissues to keep him safe. For the next 8 months he sat in my room with little change. Sometimes I forgot he was there, other times I worried that he was dead, and every now and then I would give his jar a little tap to see if he would wiggle and do his little dance. When May rolled around I began to check on him more frequently. I knew he was supposed to come out soon, but I didn't know exactly when. In preparation for his emergence I moved him to a larger box so he would have room to stretch his wings when he came out.
The day before we left for our weekend trip to the island the skin of his casing turned very dark and almost papery to the touch. I knew he was about to come out. Briefly I considered an emergency c-section so that I would not miss his coming out, but then abandoned that idea. In the end I left him with my boyfriend to babysit and went to the island where there was spotty cell reception at best. On Saturday evening I found out that Pupy had emerged the night before and a very blurry, low resolution picture of him hanging from the stick I placed in his box. I didn't think there was much that could make me want to leave the beautiful island, but apparently seeing my little moth-baby was one of them. When I finally got back and saw him it became apparent that he was not little at all. It was strange to see his pupal casing that I had grown so familiar with torn open, sitting on the bottom of the box. Instead of my plump, wriggly little brown thing, there was now a beautiful, furry moth. I didn't want to let him go, and I will admit a part of me wanted to preserve the moth like in those insect collection mounts. And so, he sat in my room for a day because I could not bear to let him go. I felt guilty about not setting him free, but sad at the thought of seeing him go. However, I knew time was ticking because the moths only live a few days.
On Tuesday evening I brought him outside. I let him crawl onto my hand and lifted him out of the box, but he did not attempt to fly away. Then I placed him on a nearby plant and he still did not move. He just sat there with his wings spread flat. With him sitting out there in the open I worried that some bird would snatch him up as a tasty meal or a person would come by and claim him as their own, so I put him back in his box and brought him back to my room again. I still did not want to let him go. But around 11 o’clock in the evening for some reason he began to flap frantically. The sound of his wings beating against the plastic sides of the box filled me with so much panic and anguish that I rushed him outside. I opened the top and he flew out. He flew spastically in the air. I was on the 3rd floor bridge between the houses of my dorm. He crashed into the roof over and over again and it pained me to see that, but eventually he found his way to open air. Eventually he alighted on the wall and simply sat there. Then I remembered that that’s what moths do. They sit a lot. And so I had to force myself to let him be. He was certainly conspicuous sitting on the white wall under the bright lights. I check on him a handful more times before I went to bed, but each time he had not moved.
When I went to class the next morning I saw that he was not on the wall anymore. A strange wave of relief washed over me. It felt as if a great weight had been lifted off my shoulders. But then, as I walked down the stairs I saw him sitting on the side of the suspended walkway. I started worrying again about his getting eaten and the such. When I came back from class he was gone for good, but that sense of relief was gone, I just felt a little strange and sad.
My little baby, all grown up. |
|
Other: Animal Communication
Reading #1. Jim Nolman
By Travis Jepson (04/21/10 23:22:42)
Despite the age of Jim Nolman's research, I still found it amazingly relevant. Not much has been done in the way of communication with whales or turkeys for that matter. I found Nolman's approach very interesting. In his first article on the "Turkey Trot" he found that if he played certain pitches on his flute the turkeys would respond with high energy and excitement. Though not necessarily a two-way interaction, seeing how the animals responded to the pitch was an interesting concept and could touch on how the animals communicate. It was depressing to learn however that the owner of the turkeys asked Nolman to stop his interactions since the turkeys were getting "too much exercise," thus loosing weight.
His work with whales was what I found the most interesting. I had no idea that the sonar used on a submarine could kill a whale due to how they hear sound. I liked how Nolman described the thought process of a whale as well, unlike us, thinking in pictures/sound, Nolman believes that whales think in sound alone. I believe this could be true, but I think picture thoughts could very well be possible, seeing how whales have massive eyes. Though there is no doubt in my mind that basically all whale communication is done through sound. His love for music allowed him to seek communication with whales. Over time Nolman's deliberate process of whale communication gave him recognition. I was very impressed with his persistence, if you do anything long enough and do it with a specific method, you are bound to become good at it.
I found it humorous to learn that after all these years have passed, Nolman has become his own butcher. Raising animals on a farm and slaughtering them himself. To be honest it does seem kind of twisted; raising an animal with love and care till you have earned its trust, then killing it and eating it. Though I do see this as a healthy alternative to the mass production of the heat industry, it does seem like a 180 for Nolman to take on this lifestyle. Despite this, I believe Nolman is a truly innovative man that is a pioneer in the art of animal communication.
[Write Comment]
By Travis Jepson (04/21/10 23:22:42)
Despite the age of Jim Nolman's research, I still found it amazingly relevant. Not much has been done in the way of communication with whales or turkeys for that matter. I found Nolman's approach very interesting. In his first article on the "Turkey Trot" he found that if he played certain pitches on his flute the turkeys would respond with high energy and excitement. Though not necessarily a two-way interaction, seeing how the animals responded to the pitch was an interesting concept and could touch on how the animals communicate. It was depressing to learn however that the owner of the turkeys asked Nolman to stop his interactions since the turkeys were getting "too much exercise," thus loosing weight.
His work with whales was what I found the most interesting. I had no idea that the sonar used on a submarine could kill a whale due to how they hear sound. I liked how Nolman described the thought process of a whale as well, unlike us, thinking in pictures/sound, Nolman believes that whales think in sound alone. I believe this could be true, but I think picture thoughts could very well be possible, seeing how whales have massive eyes. Though there is no doubt in my mind that basically all whale communication is done through sound. His love for music allowed him to seek communication with whales. Over time Nolman's deliberate process of whale communication gave him recognition. I was very impressed with his persistence, if you do anything long enough and do it with a specific method, you are bound to become good at it.
I found it humorous to learn that after all these years have passed, Nolman has become his own butcher. Raising animals on a farm and slaughtering them himself. To be honest it does seem kind of twisted; raising an animal with love and care till you have earned its trust, then killing it and eating it. Though I do see this as a healthy alternative to the mass production of the heat industry, it does seem like a 180 for Nolman to take on this lifestyle. Despite this, I believe Nolman is a truly innovative man that is a pioneer in the art of animal communication.
[Write Comment]
Other: Interspecies Relationships
Reading #2. Postmodern Animal Arts
By Travis Jepson (04/22/10 00:03:42)
The idea of post-modernity can be seen as a way of thinking about the world with new perspectives. This can relate to the concept of history, each nation and even every individual has their own opinion of it. Post-modernity makes it important to go against the traditional and allow these new opinions to be given the same attention as any opinion. There is no "goal" but instead a categorization used by post-modernity in order to allow multiple perspectives to be given while on the same level.
Postmodern artists seek out animals that are not considered tame or kept as pets. I believe that human projection and influence will dramatically change how an animal would act in an unaltered environment both out of human contact and out of human influence. It seems in most cases that a pet more often resembles its owner, almost as if raising a child. However, the direct dependency of an animal on their owner can be mistaken for love, having your dog approach you because you are holding a treat is no substitute for having a connection due to a bond forming over time.
Despite all the good concepts post-modernity has to offer, I did find one inconsistency that I believe needs to be carefully noted, the concept of categorization is basically the concept that postmodernists are trying to get away from, labeling. However the key factor that redeems this concept for postmodernism is that the categorization is only for the sake of organization, nothing is being set up to arrive at a truth. There is no right answer, there are only opinions.
When it came to similarities between postmodernist artists and animal rights advocates, I found there was one key important factor when it came to collaborating with animals in a "natural" environment. This is nearly impossible, for an animal to have been influenced by an environment altered by humans will ruin the aspect of a truly "wild animal." This even relates to the concept of freeing an animal, if you release an animal from captivity, they will never be able to act as they would if they had grown up in their suited environment. There is some argument that instinct will take over, however I believe that we must be realistic when seeking to help animals get back into a more natural location, remembering that in some cases, captivity is the only option because quite frankly the environment is so drastically different we almost owe it to the animals to provide them care.
Finally, the aspect of love and knowledge. In most cases the use of discipline of a human child is done out of an act of love for the overall benefit of the child in society. Animals however are disciplined to fit the role that the owner wishes, there are some standards which are often upheld but I believe it is difficult to maintain a healthy balance between respect and love especially between a pet and owner. Dependence is NOT love, if you feed your dog and it approaches its bowl wagging its tail and acts excited as you pour the food, that in my opinion is not love. That is providing an animal with the necessities for life. Interaction is what leads to love, it can be considered knowledge in the case of animals but it is a fine line between training and learning. It is important to not try and force a communication with an animal you want to have a genuine compassion for, remembering that you want to give it the freedom to choose to accept knowledge.
[Write Comment]
By Travis Jepson (04/22/10 00:03:42)
The idea of post-modernity can be seen as a way of thinking about the world with new perspectives. This can relate to the concept of history, each nation and even every individual has their own opinion of it. Post-modernity makes it important to go against the traditional and allow these new opinions to be given the same attention as any opinion. There is no "goal" but instead a categorization used by post-modernity in order to allow multiple perspectives to be given while on the same level.
Postmodern artists seek out animals that are not considered tame or kept as pets. I believe that human projection and influence will dramatically change how an animal would act in an unaltered environment both out of human contact and out of human influence. It seems in most cases that a pet more often resembles its owner, almost as if raising a child. However, the direct dependency of an animal on their owner can be mistaken for love, having your dog approach you because you are holding a treat is no substitute for having a connection due to a bond forming over time.
Despite all the good concepts post-modernity has to offer, I did find one inconsistency that I believe needs to be carefully noted, the concept of categorization is basically the concept that postmodernists are trying to get away from, labeling. However the key factor that redeems this concept for postmodernism is that the categorization is only for the sake of organization, nothing is being set up to arrive at a truth. There is no right answer, there are only opinions.
When it came to similarities between postmodernist artists and animal rights advocates, I found there was one key important factor when it came to collaborating with animals in a "natural" environment. This is nearly impossible, for an animal to have been influenced by an environment altered by humans will ruin the aspect of a truly "wild animal." This even relates to the concept of freeing an animal, if you release an animal from captivity, they will never be able to act as they would if they had grown up in their suited environment. There is some argument that instinct will take over, however I believe that we must be realistic when seeking to help animals get back into a more natural location, remembering that in some cases, captivity is the only option because quite frankly the environment is so drastically different we almost owe it to the animals to provide them care.
Finally, the aspect of love and knowledge. In most cases the use of discipline of a human child is done out of an act of love for the overall benefit of the child in society. Animals however are disciplined to fit the role that the owner wishes, there are some standards which are often upheld but I believe it is difficult to maintain a healthy balance between respect and love especially between a pet and owner. Dependence is NOT love, if you feed your dog and it approaches its bowl wagging its tail and acts excited as you pour the food, that in my opinion is not love. That is providing an animal with the necessities for life. Interaction is what leads to love, it can be considered knowledge in the case of animals but it is a fine line between training and learning. It is important to not try and force a communication with an animal you want to have a genuine compassion for, remembering that you want to give it the freedom to choose to accept knowledge.
[Write Comment]
Reading 1
By Veronica Kittle (04/21/13 19:52:19)
The Man who talks to Whales
Ch.1
An interesting point brought up by the author in the first chapter was the idea of anthropomorphism. It’s describes the act of applying human characteristics to animals, such as the ability to walk upright, think human thoughts, and speak human languages. He gave the example of Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, who is given all three of those abilities. Another point that stood out in this chapter was the introduction of the idea of natural wisdom. He claims that nature is too unsystematic to be completely entrusted by scientists, and that we should instead embrace “natural wisdom” which is based off of the interconnectedness of species. Science attempts to quantify and categorize nature so that we may better understand it. I’m not entirely sure what he expects to replace the scientific process other than the feeling of bonding with other species. He had a meaningful “collaboration” with a turkey in which the turkey produced gobbling noises while he played a flute. While he went on to produce a popular song incorporating the turkey’s noises, I’m not sure that we learned anything from this encounter about turkeys that could not be understood from science. At least with science, facts are repeatedly tested by isolating variables to understand exactly how and why an animal behaves the way it does.
Ch. 4
In chapter four, the author discusses the idea of interspecies protocol. This describes the relations between individuals, such as when two individuals of the same or different species come to some understanding between the two of them that allows them to coexist. This is distinct from symbiosis, which describes a mutually beneficial interaction between entire species. Symbiosis is the result of coevolution, in which two species evolve such that their interaction benefits both species. Symbiosis is what occurs between clownfish and anenomes. The author suggests that interspecies protocol could be occurring between some individual clownfish and anenomes. While it is not impossible, I highly doubt that the anemone, which has no centralized nervous system, could produce thoughts about a fish.
[Write Comment]
By Veronica Kittle (04/21/13 19:52:19)
The Man who talks to Whales
Ch.1
An interesting point brought up by the author in the first chapter was the idea of anthropomorphism. It’s describes the act of applying human characteristics to animals, such as the ability to walk upright, think human thoughts, and speak human languages. He gave the example of Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, who is given all three of those abilities. Another point that stood out in this chapter was the introduction of the idea of natural wisdom. He claims that nature is too unsystematic to be completely entrusted by scientists, and that we should instead embrace “natural wisdom” which is based off of the interconnectedness of species. Science attempts to quantify and categorize nature so that we may better understand it. I’m not entirely sure what he expects to replace the scientific process other than the feeling of bonding with other species. He had a meaningful “collaboration” with a turkey in which the turkey produced gobbling noises while he played a flute. While he went on to produce a popular song incorporating the turkey’s noises, I’m not sure that we learned anything from this encounter about turkeys that could not be understood from science. At least with science, facts are repeatedly tested by isolating variables to understand exactly how and why an animal behaves the way it does.
Ch. 4
In chapter four, the author discusses the idea of interspecies protocol. This describes the relations between individuals, such as when two individuals of the same or different species come to some understanding between the two of them that allows them to coexist. This is distinct from symbiosis, which describes a mutually beneficial interaction between entire species. Symbiosis is the result of coevolution, in which two species evolve such that their interaction benefits both species. Symbiosis is what occurs between clownfish and anenomes. The author suggests that interspecies protocol could be occurring between some individual clownfish and anenomes. While it is not impossible, I highly doubt that the anemone, which has no centralized nervous system, could produce thoughts about a fish.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Reading 1 response
By Caitlin Gallagher (05/01/13 15:23:45)
Related animals: Anemone, Coyote, Hump Back Whale, Whale
In the first chapter Turkey Trot Nollman talks about how he had a difficult time finding a middle ground for his love of animals and music. When in Mexico Nollman reached a realization, instead of observing the animals and experimenting on them, we need to try to interact and communicate with the animals. The thing I found most interesting is what he says about the requirements of communication, “But it if it is truly to be considered communication, then it should also be based upon mutual respect. It must develop as an open-ended dialog where both participants have the equal power to direct the course and subject matter of the learning experience.” When interacting with animals I have something to gain from them and them from me instead of just observing I need to participate.
Chapter four talks about Interspecies Protocol, some species are dependent upon each other and have an understanding of the needs and habits of each other. It seems that humans have no regard for the interspecies protocol that other animals follow and this can lead to endangered species or extinction. I thought what Nollman said about protocol and symbiotic relationships was interesting, he asked, “do individual clown-fish and individual anemone also need to fine-tune their obviously symbiotic relationship to best but one another’s precise size, habitat, level of trust, and even personality? If this occurs, then protocol is the term for it.” In biology this relationship was referred to as symbiotic but if it is in fact protocol then it gives the anemone and clownfish a personality that may not simply be instinctual.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Caitlin Gallagher (05/01/13 15:23:45)
Related animals: Anemone, Coyote, Hump Back Whale, Whale
In the first chapter Turkey Trot Nollman talks about how he had a difficult time finding a middle ground for his love of animals and music. When in Mexico Nollman reached a realization, instead of observing the animals and experimenting on them, we need to try to interact and communicate with the animals. The thing I found most interesting is what he says about the requirements of communication, “But it if it is truly to be considered communication, then it should also be based upon mutual respect. It must develop as an open-ended dialog where both participants have the equal power to direct the course and subject matter of the learning experience.” When interacting with animals I have something to gain from them and them from me instead of just observing I need to participate.
Chapter four talks about Interspecies Protocol, some species are dependent upon each other and have an understanding of the needs and habits of each other. It seems that humans have no regard for the interspecies protocol that other animals follow and this can lead to endangered species or extinction. I thought what Nollman said about protocol and symbiotic relationships was interesting, he asked, “do individual clown-fish and individual anemone also need to fine-tune their obviously symbiotic relationship to best but one another’s precise size, habitat, level of trust, and even personality? If this occurs, then protocol is the term for it.” In biology this relationship was referred to as symbiotic but if it is in fact protocol then it gives the anemone and clownfish a personality that may not simply be instinctual.
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
reading 2 (fear of the familiar)
By Jennifer Lee Lin (04/22/10 20:24:56)
This text was a little confusing for me, but the discussion helped a lot.
I believe postmodern artists have a "fear of pets" because they see the pets as not real animals, because they are animals who are in captivity, they are animals that have been domesticated and live and grow with humans. Therefore their lives are just human projections. Pets are in a strange place in the human-animal spectrum. They are not real animals, but they are not human, they are neither nor. Therefore postmodernity favor wild animals because they are not influenced by humans, they live and grow naturally in the wilderness. They are truly themselves. There are some inconsistencies in the foundation of postmodernisms "fear of the familiar" however ( i have trouble with this question, but), i believe because postmodernism is all about the gray area, that there are dualisms, no one truth. some postmodernists are trying to categorize and organize what characterizes them as a movement. the very act of trying to label something is counter-postmodernist. they are trying to find structure even though this movement is all about deconstruction. Therefore, postmodernists and animal advocates are similar not only because they both cherish the wild animal, but also because they both cherish the individual. instead of modernist thinking where everyone is the same and that what defines a species is set in stone, both groups focus on individualism, the individual animal within a species. they both believe that an animal is not defined by its species and have special qualities within them that is utterly untouched by human influence. (I dont know how sexism really plays, and i don't agree with what the article said about sexism) Love has everything to do with knowledge, because one pursues in learning because they have an interest towards it. love is the pursuit of knowledge. One needs love for a subject in order to try to understand it, without sentiment (even though it is looked down on by postmodernists), we cannot connect with animals because we cant relate to them.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Jennifer Lee Lin (04/22/10 20:24:56)
This text was a little confusing for me, but the discussion helped a lot.
I believe postmodern artists have a "fear of pets" because they see the pets as not real animals, because they are animals who are in captivity, they are animals that have been domesticated and live and grow with humans. Therefore their lives are just human projections. Pets are in a strange place in the human-animal spectrum. They are not real animals, but they are not human, they are neither nor. Therefore postmodernity favor wild animals because they are not influenced by humans, they live and grow naturally in the wilderness. They are truly themselves. There are some inconsistencies in the foundation of postmodernisms "fear of the familiar" however ( i have trouble with this question, but), i believe because postmodernism is all about the gray area, that there are dualisms, no one truth. some postmodernists are trying to categorize and organize what characterizes them as a movement. the very act of trying to label something is counter-postmodernist. they are trying to find structure even though this movement is all about deconstruction. Therefore, postmodernists and animal advocates are similar not only because they both cherish the wild animal, but also because they both cherish the individual. instead of modernist thinking where everyone is the same and that what defines a species is set in stone, both groups focus on individualism, the individual animal within a species. they both believe that an animal is not defined by its species and have special qualities within them that is utterly untouched by human influence. (I dont know how sexism really plays, and i don't agree with what the article said about sexism) Love has everything to do with knowledge, because one pursues in learning because they have an interest towards it. love is the pursuit of knowledge. One needs love for a subject in order to try to understand it, without sentiment (even though it is looked down on by postmodernists), we cannot connect with animals because we cant relate to them.
Reflection: Art Related to Animal Rights
Reading 2: The idiot, the Voyeur and the Moralist
By Caitlin Gallagher (06/05/13 01:41:34)
Steve Bakers article “the Idiot, the voyer and the Moralist” from “Artist Animal (posthumanities)” discusses whether contemporary artist can be trusted to act responsibly and ethically when dealing with animals.
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
Baker believes that artists have been known to act unethically towards animals but each case is different, an artist can choose to collaborate with an animal or use it as a tool but just because the process of an artist is unconventional does not mean it is unethical.
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
Although the piece may be unexpected or disturbing the meaning behind the piece might raise bigger issues that need to be looked at and if this is understood or felt by the audience then the overall effect was justified.
3. What is some of Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
Baker says that Jones’s Rat Piece is unsettling and caused very strong reaction from the audience although he doesn’t discredit the work he does have some criticism over the unethical treatment of the rats. He says had that piece been done 20 years later it would have received a very different reaction.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/Why?
Baker justifies the artists intentions because although the subject he presented was disturbing the meaning behind the piece moved the audience but people were too quick to judge before they were able to grasp what Jones was trying to say.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artist to work with/use animals?
Baker says that it is important to be able to trust artists with animals because if we didn’t they would be limited. He says that most artists have a respect for animals and wouldn’t cause harm to them only very few feel differently.
6. Do you think artist have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
I do think that people should have some respect for the lives of animals. I think that it is cruel for an artwork to gain meaning from the suffering of another animal. It’s is unjust to value an art piece over the life of something. If anything can be art, there must be another way to express whatever it is you want the audience to take away from the piece. I think that an artist should take it as a challenge to find other ways of creating an artwork by abiding by ethical responsibilities.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
I have to disagree although it is difficult to draw the line I think that using animals for food or medical purposes (not necessarily all science) can be justified. Our bodies are made to be omnivores there is no reason we should stop eating meat its part of the food chain. I also think that we have made many medical advancements through testing on animals that have saved billions of lives. Art does not need animals to thrive but the food and science do, why use them in an unethical way when it is not necessary.
Artist Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Caitlin Gallagher (06/05/13 01:41:34)
Steve Bakers article “the Idiot, the voyer and the Moralist” from “Artist Animal (posthumanities)” discusses whether contemporary artist can be trusted to act responsibly and ethically when dealing with animals.
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
Baker believes that artists have been known to act unethically towards animals but each case is different, an artist can choose to collaborate with an animal or use it as a tool but just because the process of an artist is unconventional does not mean it is unethical.
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
Although the piece may be unexpected or disturbing the meaning behind the piece might raise bigger issues that need to be looked at and if this is understood or felt by the audience then the overall effect was justified.
3. What is some of Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
Baker says that Jones’s Rat Piece is unsettling and caused very strong reaction from the audience although he doesn’t discredit the work he does have some criticism over the unethical treatment of the rats. He says had that piece been done 20 years later it would have received a very different reaction.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/Why?
Baker justifies the artists intentions because although the subject he presented was disturbing the meaning behind the piece moved the audience but people were too quick to judge before they were able to grasp what Jones was trying to say.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artist to work with/use animals?
Baker says that it is important to be able to trust artists with animals because if we didn’t they would be limited. He says that most artists have a respect for animals and wouldn’t cause harm to them only very few feel differently.
6. Do you think artist have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
I do think that people should have some respect for the lives of animals. I think that it is cruel for an artwork to gain meaning from the suffering of another animal. It’s is unjust to value an art piece over the life of something. If anything can be art, there must be another way to express whatever it is you want the audience to take away from the piece. I think that an artist should take it as a challenge to find other ways of creating an artwork by abiding by ethical responsibilities.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
I have to disagree although it is difficult to draw the line I think that using animals for food or medical purposes (not necessarily all science) can be justified. Our bodies are made to be omnivores there is no reason we should stop eating meat its part of the food chain. I also think that we have made many medical advancements through testing on animals that have saved billions of lives. Art does not need animals to thrive but the food and science do, why use them in an unethical way when it is not necessary.
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Reading 4/8/2010
By ho chi leung (04/08/10 11:38:14)
Related animals: Lion, Turkey
Many things in this week reading are very interesting. The turkey always gobbled itself when the author played his flute was a very cute interspecies music. It was so funny when the woman blamed at the author, because she thought he was upsetting her turkey and caused it to lose weight. However, the author did not think he was upsetting the turkey at all. I think it is interesting to see how different human beings interpret the animals' actions in different ways. And I agree with the author says that he was having a communication with the animal which involves much more than aesthetics. People always do observation of animals, but his relationship with the turkey was more than an observation, because he was doing a participation. I believe participation not only allows us understand the animals' characters more, but also to form a genuine bond with the animals.
Besides, the Interspecies Protocol's idea impressed me. Especially when the author talks about the protocol between Bushmen and Lions about visiting the waterhole and keeping the lions quiet at night. And it is sad to hear that their traditional interspecies protocol was then disturbed because of the ranchers, and the peace between the Bushmen and lions was further broken.
[Write Comment]
By ho chi leung (04/08/10 11:38:14)
Related animals: Lion, Turkey
Many things in this week reading are very interesting. The turkey always gobbled itself when the author played his flute was a very cute interspecies music. It was so funny when the woman blamed at the author, because she thought he was upsetting her turkey and caused it to lose weight. However, the author did not think he was upsetting the turkey at all. I think it is interesting to see how different human beings interpret the animals' actions in different ways. And I agree with the author says that he was having a communication with the animal which involves much more than aesthetics. People always do observation of animals, but his relationship with the turkey was more than an observation, because he was doing a participation. I believe participation not only allows us understand the animals' characters more, but also to form a genuine bond with the animals.
Besides, the Interspecies Protocol's idea impressed me. Especially when the author talks about the protocol between Bushmen and Lions about visiting the waterhole and keeping the lions quiet at night. And it is sad to hear that their traditional interspecies protocol was then disturbed because of the ranchers, and the peace between the Bushmen and lions was further broken.
[Write Comment]
Other: Interspecies Communication
Reading: Ch 5,6 from Dolphin Mysteries: Unlocking the Secrets of Communication
By ho chi leung (05/30/10 02:02:47)
Related animal: Dolphin
Dolphins are known to have a peaceful and playful image to everyone’s mind. Toni Frohoff also described that dolphins often tease and play with birds and they sometimes even throw fish to birds. However, dolphins are not always friendly and peaceful with members of their own species. As Toni pointed out, infanticide has been witnessed among bottlenose dolphins in several locations around the globe. Moreover, a human fatality case happened in Brazil by a sociable bottlenose dolphin, but it was defending for itself because the two humans were trying to abuse and capture it.
Toni also suggested dolphins usually are found in groups, and rarely be alone. It reminds me that I was surprised to see the two or three thousands dolphins in the sea during the field trip. Although I had so much fun in the trip when I saw dolphins filled up the ocean, I could feel the boat kept hitting on the dolphins when I was standing at the front of the boat. And Toni also mentioned in her book that sometimes, the boats pursed the dolphins in a high speed, it occasionally separated the mother-calf pairs. Moreover, she also suggested that the shipping noise would possibly disturb the dolphins’ cetacean vocalizations and further interrupt their communications.
Human beings often danger or interrupt dolphins’ life, hence, I agree with Toni that we should have a better understanding of “the dolphin social ecology and communication heightens our understand of the dynamics of their society and how we—human interlopers into their underwater world—affect their development as individuals and as a community”.
Why Paint Cats (the ethics of feline aesthetics) (Book) [Write Comment]
By ho chi leung (05/30/10 02:02:47)
Related animal: Dolphin
Dolphins are known to have a peaceful and playful image to everyone’s mind. Toni Frohoff also described that dolphins often tease and play with birds and they sometimes even throw fish to birds. However, dolphins are not always friendly and peaceful with members of their own species. As Toni pointed out, infanticide has been witnessed among bottlenose dolphins in several locations around the globe. Moreover, a human fatality case happened in Brazil by a sociable bottlenose dolphin, but it was defending for itself because the two humans were trying to abuse and capture it.
Toni also suggested dolphins usually are found in groups, and rarely be alone. It reminds me that I was surprised to see the two or three thousands dolphins in the sea during the field trip. Although I had so much fun in the trip when I saw dolphins filled up the ocean, I could feel the boat kept hitting on the dolphins when I was standing at the front of the boat. And Toni also mentioned in her book that sometimes, the boats pursed the dolphins in a high speed, it occasionally separated the mother-calf pairs. Moreover, she also suggested that the shipping noise would possibly disturb the dolphins’ cetacean vocalizations and further interrupt their communications.
Human beings often danger or interrupt dolphins’ life, hence, I agree with Toni that we should have a better understanding of “the dolphin social ecology and communication heightens our understand of the dynamics of their society and how we—human interlopers into their underwater world—affect their development as individuals and as a community”.
Reading: chapter 10, Chapter 10 Jim Nollman's "The Man Who Talks to Whales"
By ho chi leung (05/30/10 01:57:12)
Related animal: Dolphin
In Jim Nollman’s Dolphin Mysteries chapter 10, he often anthropomorphized the dolphins such as saying the dolphins seemed to be the human musicians who prefer to work at night, and human and dolphins tend to reflect each other because humans sense natural wisdom more clearly and succinctly from the dolphins than from other animals. Jim suggested that all living creatures are remarkably related on that basic level of genes, and therefore human and animals or other living creatures are all the same stuff. I understand how his point came from, but I do not totally agree. Although humans’ and animals’ basic level of genes are probably related, the genes formulas are still different and which makes every species to be distinct. Hence, I do not agree all living creatures “are the same stuff”, and the way he concluded was too general.
I support what Jim said that “all the living beings and communities of beings have been living and breathing cooperatively since the very inception of life on earth”. I believe it was the God’s goal when He first created the world. Nevertheless, human’ living style is changing causes the world to change. And the change further interrupted the cooperativeness or the relationship between human beings and animals.
It was interesting to read how the dolphins react to music. They played back-and forth game—rushing off at top speed, all five breaking across the surface of water in unison, away from the boat, until Jim stopped playing. However, the way Jim described how the dolphins reacted, they seemed having fun. But I doubted if that is really how the dolphins felt.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By ho chi leung (05/30/10 01:57:12)
Related animal: Dolphin
In Jim Nollman’s Dolphin Mysteries chapter 10, he often anthropomorphized the dolphins such as saying the dolphins seemed to be the human musicians who prefer to work at night, and human and dolphins tend to reflect each other because humans sense natural wisdom more clearly and succinctly from the dolphins than from other animals. Jim suggested that all living creatures are remarkably related on that basic level of genes, and therefore human and animals or other living creatures are all the same stuff. I understand how his point came from, but I do not totally agree. Although humans’ and animals’ basic level of genes are probably related, the genes formulas are still different and which makes every species to be distinct. Hence, I do not agree all living creatures “are the same stuff”, and the way he concluded was too general.
I support what Jim said that “all the living beings and communities of beings have been living and breathing cooperatively since the very inception of life on earth”. I believe it was the God’s goal when He first created the world. Nevertheless, human’ living style is changing causes the world to change. And the change further interrupted the cooperativeness or the relationship between human beings and animals.
It was interesting to read how the dolphins react to music. They played back-and forth game—rushing off at top speed, all five breaking across the surface of water in unison, away from the boat, until Jim stopped playing. However, the way Jim described how the dolphins reacted, they seemed having fun. But I doubted if that is really how the dolphins felt.
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Reading: Chapter 8, Fear of the Familiar
By ho chi leung (04/21/10 23:52:59)
Related animal: Dog
I think it is interesting to know that some artists prefer to work with wild animals because they think animals’ wildness reflects the animals’ true identities. However, to me, I am more interested to work with domestic animals because there is a sort of relationship between the animals and the human, and that relationship line interests me more to explore. Moreover, even though the domestic animals are adapted to human life, their own identities or characteristics that cannot be washed away from them. For example, no one or no other dogs had taught my dog to pee and master places or spots when I take him a walk, and no one or no other dogs had taught my dog to bark when people come in from the door. In short, I think animals’ characteristics are always in them since they were born. And regarding the ways and attitudes that domestic animals react to human, I do not think they ruined the true characteristics from the animals. Rather than that, I see these are the extra characteristics from these domestic animals. Moreover, “It is love that leads to knowledge” is my favorite quote in this reading.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By ho chi leung (04/21/10 23:52:59)
Related animal: Dog
I think it is interesting to know that some artists prefer to work with wild animals because they think animals’ wildness reflects the animals’ true identities. However, to me, I am more interested to work with domestic animals because there is a sort of relationship between the animals and the human, and that relationship line interests me more to explore. Moreover, even though the domestic animals are adapted to human life, their own identities or characteristics that cannot be washed away from them. For example, no one or no other dogs had taught my dog to pee and master places or spots when I take him a walk, and no one or no other dogs had taught my dog to bark when people come in from the door. In short, I think animals’ characteristics are always in them since they were born. And regarding the ways and attitudes that domestic animals react to human, I do not think they ruined the true characteristics from the animals. Rather than that, I see these are the extra characteristics from these domestic animals. Moreover, “It is love that leads to knowledge” is my favorite quote in this reading.
Reflection: Other Related Research
readings by Toni Fromhoff
By Jenna Ferri (06/04/10 18:37:51)
Dr Toni Fromhoff had some interesting things to say regarding dolphins both in her book and during her in class presentation. It was so appalling to me that the dolphins were mistreated so blatantly in public facilities. However, being someone who did swim with the dolphins, there are those facilities that come off as humane, but the public need to be educated. Taking us on a trip to the ocean as she did really made an impact to me on how beautiful these precious and delicate animals are. It was the open water and the miles of dolphins that really showed me just how rare this is of an experience.
As for her book, it was really interesting to read a book that was written by her and her colleague who had opposing scientific views. It was interesting to see how one felt that certain forms of captivity if well kept were humane and Toni felt the opposite. Toni's book also brought up good points on how others can learn from dolphins and there interactions with other species. She comments on how playful dolphins are there nature to interact with whales and even boats as a species for that matter. There interactions with us on the trip, even though it was not really apparent was evident in their bow riding and response to our enthusiasm.
Toni's book was a great reference before the trip to learn about how dolphins are by nature and how we can use our scientific knowledge of them to collaborate!
[Write Comment]
By Jenna Ferri (06/04/10 18:37:51)
Dr Toni Fromhoff had some interesting things to say regarding dolphins both in her book and during her in class presentation. It was so appalling to me that the dolphins were mistreated so blatantly in public facilities. However, being someone who did swim with the dolphins, there are those facilities that come off as humane, but the public need to be educated. Taking us on a trip to the ocean as she did really made an impact to me on how beautiful these precious and delicate animals are. It was the open water and the miles of dolphins that really showed me just how rare this is of an experience.
As for her book, it was really interesting to read a book that was written by her and her colleague who had opposing scientific views. It was interesting to see how one felt that certain forms of captivity if well kept were humane and Toni felt the opposite. Toni's book also brought up good points on how others can learn from dolphins and there interactions with other species. She comments on how playful dolphins are there nature to interact with whales and even boats as a species for that matter. There interactions with us on the trip, even though it was not really apparent was evident in their bow riding and response to our enthusiasm.
Toni's book was a great reference before the trip to learn about how dolphins are by nature and how we can use our scientific knowledge of them to collaborate!
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Realization
By Fey Cha (04/16/10 17:18:00)
Since the beginning of this quarter I have become more aware of how pretentious we human beings are. Yes, we have advanced to the top of the food chain and have mastered tool use to create towering skyscrapers, the Internet, and indoor snow resorts but at the end of the day that doesn't mean shit for humanity. Humans have become so obsessed with trying to be the best at everything that we have completely lost track of our place on this planet. We reproduce, overpopulate, fight, destroy, rebuild, and repeat. We believe we are the dominating species just because we can kill or capture every other species but that only shows how foolish we humans truly are. In all reality, we are just another species on this planet. The only difference is that we are the most ignorant ones and the other species have to put up with our stupidity.
If life on Earth were a high school humans would be the freshmen. We are brought into this world thinking we know everything just because we are educated; we try to prove ourselves to everyone else when the upperclassmen could really care less. We’re loud and obnoxious and don’t know our limits. LIMITS!
Breakthrough!
Humans fail because they don’t know their limits. Humans don’t know when to stop. The moment they find a good thing they try to get as much of it as they can. The best example is the simple idea of how humans prize an object not by its abundance but by its scarceness. Yes, it follows the law of supply and demand but in nature people tend to overlook the rate of production of these objects. It seems like the term limit is no longer a term referring to a maximum but more of a goal. I just hit 300 words with that last sentence so I shall continue this analysis on another reflection. Thanks for reading!
[Write Comment]
Comment by kjhoward (04/23/10 14:13:16):
I couldn't agree with you more. I've been realizing the same things as the quarter continues and it makes me really upset that we humans have been so focused on becoming "better" and somewhere along the line decided that we have dominion over everything. We are so out of touch with our animal selves, that most of us couldn't survive in nature if we tried. And what is most frustrating is that so many people just don't give a shit. Your analogy of humans as freshman is accurate in my opinion.
By Fey Cha (04/16/10 17:18:00)
Since the beginning of this quarter I have become more aware of how pretentious we human beings are. Yes, we have advanced to the top of the food chain and have mastered tool use to create towering skyscrapers, the Internet, and indoor snow resorts but at the end of the day that doesn't mean shit for humanity. Humans have become so obsessed with trying to be the best at everything that we have completely lost track of our place on this planet. We reproduce, overpopulate, fight, destroy, rebuild, and repeat. We believe we are the dominating species just because we can kill or capture every other species but that only shows how foolish we humans truly are. In all reality, we are just another species on this planet. The only difference is that we are the most ignorant ones and the other species have to put up with our stupidity.
If life on Earth were a high school humans would be the freshmen. We are brought into this world thinking we know everything just because we are educated; we try to prove ourselves to everyone else when the upperclassmen could really care less. We’re loud and obnoxious and don’t know our limits. LIMITS!
Breakthrough!
Humans fail because they don’t know their limits. Humans don’t know when to stop. The moment they find a good thing they try to get as much of it as they can. The best example is the simple idea of how humans prize an object not by its abundance but by its scarceness. Yes, it follows the law of supply and demand but in nature people tend to overlook the rate of production of these objects. It seems like the term limit is no longer a term referring to a maximum but more of a goal. I just hit 300 words with that last sentence so I shall continue this analysis on another reflection. Thanks for reading!
[Write Comment]
Comment by kjhoward (04/23/10 14:13:16):
I couldn't agree with you more. I've been realizing the same things as the quarter continues and it makes me really upset that we humans have been so focused on becoming "better" and somewhere along the line decided that we have dominion over everything. We are so out of touch with our animal selves, that most of us couldn't survive in nature if we tried. And what is most frustrating is that so many people just don't give a shit. Your analogy of humans as freshman is accurate in my opinion.
Reflecting on Timothy Treadwell
By Martin C. Shaver (06/13/10 16:23:01)
I found the story of Timothy Treadwell to be particularly interesting in the sense that this man gave up everything he had, including his life, for the betterment of bears. although Timothy is constantly criticized for doing what he did, walking with enormous creatures that are thought to be one of the most dangerous species on earth, i feel that more good has come out of his story than not. being able to put himself out there for the love of the creatures is amazing; and 13 years to survive it all with only one but final incident is even more so. Timothy preached to children, and young generations that these animals are more than just a big beast but a creature with a heart and sole as well. he taught them that yes, they are dangerous, but they are more than that.
i honestly do believe that Timothy was able to make a lot of progress in the field of inter species relationships. even if his work while he was alive went unappreciated and almost unrecognized, i feel that in his death, being able to give up himself for these animals, that he is able to send that message, and drive it deeper into people that anyone else possibly could have. although i may not have done the same as he had, i respect him for his courage, dedication, and pure love for another species.
[Write Comment]
By Martin C. Shaver (06/13/10 16:23:01)
I found the story of Timothy Treadwell to be particularly interesting in the sense that this man gave up everything he had, including his life, for the betterment of bears. although Timothy is constantly criticized for doing what he did, walking with enormous creatures that are thought to be one of the most dangerous species on earth, i feel that more good has come out of his story than not. being able to put himself out there for the love of the creatures is amazing; and 13 years to survive it all with only one but final incident is even more so. Timothy preached to children, and young generations that these animals are more than just a big beast but a creature with a heart and sole as well. he taught them that yes, they are dangerous, but they are more than that.
i honestly do believe that Timothy was able to make a lot of progress in the field of inter species relationships. even if his work while he was alive went unappreciated and almost unrecognized, i feel that in his death, being able to give up himself for these animals, that he is able to send that message, and drive it deeper into people that anyone else possibly could have. although i may not have done the same as he had, i respect him for his courage, dedication, and pure love for another species.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Art Interspecies Collaborations
reflection communication
By Michael Walter Lambert (05/02/09 17:56:43)
Related animal: Dog
I come over to my parents house with the intention of working with our family dog Mac. Mac is a West Highland White Terrier, male, and eight human years old. We know each other well, he seemed happy to see me as he greeted me at the door. I can't help but hear good things and happy energy from Mac. Knowing how much Mac likes hamburgers I was allowed to feed him one. He likes to play fetch with any of his many toys. He is always happier after a meal. From Santa Barbara I brought a video camera and a regular camera for potential projects with Mac, but first I wanted to try the 7-steps taught to us by Carol Gurney.
The first thing I do is sit down and follow Carol Gurney's steps to meditation. As I attempt to meditate, Mac grows restless. I'm not sure he will stay with me during the step one meditation phase. I realize I need to get the dogs attention so I begin reading the meditation steps out loud. Then a funny thing happened. Mac suddenly calmed down and started to relax. I could see these words soothing to him. He finally got comfortable. One great moment of recognition came when I was reading the step where you are supposed to imagine yourself walking on a beach and Mac laying on his side half asleep began kicking his feet as if he were trying to follow the direction! I now start step five; learn to focus. I am told to choose a communication line between me and the animal. Either visual. mental, physical, emotional, or spiritual. I do not feel comfortable doing any of these. I just follow the steps and hope for a vision; a sign. Again I read the instructions out loud and I see the dog is very interested. It appears to me that not only is he curious but he understands. I can feel him following the steps one by one as I would.
I attempt to meditate myself now that the dog is calmed down and resting. I do many breathing exercises and I begin to feel grounded, open, and calm. I begin asking the dog some questions. I get no answers at least not audibly or mentally. I do get a few visual mental pictures but I am not sure if that is me or the dog. Perhaps Mac did not feel like talking. I ask him many questions including "Is there anything you want me to know" and "what would you do about my personal problems." I get no answers but I do get a feeling from him, almost physical. I see dark anger. I am very aware that he is in the room. I can feel him. I think he is projecting. I can see he is tired I had just taken him for a walk. I love Mac, we connect on so many different levels even if not through language.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Walter Lambert (05/02/09 17:56:43)
Related animal: Dog
I come over to my parents house with the intention of working with our family dog Mac. Mac is a West Highland White Terrier, male, and eight human years old. We know each other well, he seemed happy to see me as he greeted me at the door. I can't help but hear good things and happy energy from Mac. Knowing how much Mac likes hamburgers I was allowed to feed him one. He likes to play fetch with any of his many toys. He is always happier after a meal. From Santa Barbara I brought a video camera and a regular camera for potential projects with Mac, but first I wanted to try the 7-steps taught to us by Carol Gurney.
The first thing I do is sit down and follow Carol Gurney's steps to meditation. As I attempt to meditate, Mac grows restless. I'm not sure he will stay with me during the step one meditation phase. I realize I need to get the dogs attention so I begin reading the meditation steps out loud. Then a funny thing happened. Mac suddenly calmed down and started to relax. I could see these words soothing to him. He finally got comfortable. One great moment of recognition came when I was reading the step where you are supposed to imagine yourself walking on a beach and Mac laying on his side half asleep began kicking his feet as if he were trying to follow the direction! I now start step five; learn to focus. I am told to choose a communication line between me and the animal. Either visual. mental, physical, emotional, or spiritual. I do not feel comfortable doing any of these. I just follow the steps and hope for a vision; a sign. Again I read the instructions out loud and I see the dog is very interested. It appears to me that not only is he curious but he understands. I can feel him following the steps one by one as I would.
I attempt to meditate myself now that the dog is calmed down and resting. I do many breathing exercises and I begin to feel grounded, open, and calm. I begin asking the dog some questions. I get no answers at least not audibly or mentally. I do get a few visual mental pictures but I am not sure if that is me or the dog. Perhaps Mac did not feel like talking. I ask him many questions including "Is there anything you want me to know" and "what would you do about my personal problems." I get no answers but I do get a feeling from him, almost physical. I see dark anger. I am very aware that he is in the room. I can feel him. I think he is projecting. I can see he is tired I had just taken him for a walk. I love Mac, we connect on so many different levels even if not through language.
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Reflection on "Dolphin Mysteries"
By Kirsten Howard (05/24/10 11:19:11)
Related animal: Dolphin
My attention was caught in chapter 5 of “ Dolphin Mysteries,” especially on page 133 when she discusses dolphins in captivity and dolphin training. I do not agree with the concept of keeping dolphins in captivity nor do I agree with training them or trying to get specific responses from them. She discusses it in this way, “The training of dolphins is a venue for the in-depth exploration of dolphin-human communication. Dolphins in captivity and trainers communicate through positive reinforcement: dolphins learn to modify their behavior to obtain a reward according to signals learned from the trainer.” While this method of training is not physically harmful, I do not agree that it is a form of interspecies collaboration or true communication, because the dolphins are working for a reward in this case, and not working for the sake of communication. It is therefore not a study of their true nature, but rather a study of behavior modification as laid out by humans. This relates back to anthropomorphism that we discussed in class, in which humans project onto animals. Instead of trying to teach dolphins things, why don’t we let them teach us now? It is time for us to learn from animals, and recognize that they embody a wisdom that may not necessarily be in the intellectual sense that we recognize, but rather, it is in a different sense altogether, and connected to the natural world in ways that we should be more open to witnessing and appreciating.
[Write Comment]
By Kirsten Howard (05/24/10 11:19:11)
Related animal: Dolphin
My attention was caught in chapter 5 of “ Dolphin Mysteries,” especially on page 133 when she discusses dolphins in captivity and dolphin training. I do not agree with the concept of keeping dolphins in captivity nor do I agree with training them or trying to get specific responses from them. She discusses it in this way, “The training of dolphins is a venue for the in-depth exploration of dolphin-human communication. Dolphins in captivity and trainers communicate through positive reinforcement: dolphins learn to modify their behavior to obtain a reward according to signals learned from the trainer.” While this method of training is not physically harmful, I do not agree that it is a form of interspecies collaboration or true communication, because the dolphins are working for a reward in this case, and not working for the sake of communication. It is therefore not a study of their true nature, but rather a study of behavior modification as laid out by humans. This relates back to anthropomorphism that we discussed in class, in which humans project onto animals. Instead of trying to teach dolphins things, why don’t we let them teach us now? It is time for us to learn from animals, and recognize that they embody a wisdom that may not necessarily be in the intellectual sense that we recognize, but rather, it is in a different sense altogether, and connected to the natural world in ways that we should be more open to witnessing and appreciating.
[Write Comment]
REFLECTION ON PANDORAS BOX
By Chelsea Hunter (05/31/09 11:16:31)
Related animal: Snake
Pandora’s Box is a scent based interior design project performed with Pandora, a 1 year old ball python. Four people living a home with Pandora but all having different amounts of interaction with her applied their own scent to a specific color of small fuzzy balls. The balls were then placed in four corners of a cardboard box and Pandora was allowed to smell each one and move them as she pleased. The color yellow which was the color that had the scent of Pandora’s owner was moved around the most, and Pandora kept going back to that color after smelling out the others. The pink color which had the scent of someone who had never touched her was moved about the same amount as the green that had the scent of someone who has had little contact with her. The blue was touched the least and carried the scent of someone who was the last person to handle her before the project.
The same scent based interior design project was performed again but this time using the scents of humans as well as other mammals. The colored balls that had the human scent were used again but this time a group of small black balls that carried the scent of a dog, and a group of small dark green balls that carried the scent of a mouse were also placed in a larger box. Besides spending slightly longer on the mouse scented green balls Pandora mostly moved around the different pieces equally moving everything around with her body and gathering most of it into the center.
[Write Comment]
By Chelsea Hunter (05/31/09 11:16:31)
Related animal: Snake
Pandora’s Box is a scent based interior design project performed with Pandora, a 1 year old ball python. Four people living a home with Pandora but all having different amounts of interaction with her applied their own scent to a specific color of small fuzzy balls. The balls were then placed in four corners of a cardboard box and Pandora was allowed to smell each one and move them as she pleased. The color yellow which was the color that had the scent of Pandora’s owner was moved around the most, and Pandora kept going back to that color after smelling out the others. The pink color which had the scent of someone who had never touched her was moved about the same amount as the green that had the scent of someone who has had little contact with her. The blue was touched the least and carried the scent of someone who was the last person to handle her before the project.
The same scent based interior design project was performed again but this time using the scents of humans as well as other mammals. The colored balls that had the human scent were used again but this time a group of small black balls that carried the scent of a dog, and a group of small dark green balls that carried the scent of a mouse were also placed in a larger box. Besides spending slightly longer on the mouse scented green balls Pandora mostly moved around the different pieces equally moving everything around with her body and gathering most of it into the center.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Human Animal Perception and Cognition
reflection on the inclass movies
By Jenna Ferri (05/07/10 16:01:11)
Related animal: Bear
The movies we watched in class this week were insightful and enlightening. While both has controversial issues supporting them like whether or not the two parties were actually helping the bears, the individuals definitely connected with these bears on a deeper level than many humans have.
The first movie was interesting in the fact that this couple didn't want to necessary get close to the bears and treat them as pets but instead wanted to observe their mannerisms and understand them better for educational purposes. This was apparent in the way they raised the orphaned bear cubs. They kept a very hands off approach and tried to keep them as wild as possible through minimum human contact. By treating all of the bears they came across in this way, they were trying to prove that in a peaceful relationship between bear and human, neither party should feel threatened.
In the second movie he took an entirely different approach, one I did not agree with. He treated these bears as if they were his pets and ignored the fact that human encounters were foreign to them and his way of interacting was probably threatening. By naming the bears it became obvious his obsession to treat these bears like pets or even equals not wild animals. What I disliked most was the way he tricked the bears to come closer to him by targeting their curiousity and then would hit them when they got to close for his comfort. This push pull attitude was confusing to the bears and in my opinion was not a positive experience. Also him thinking he was guardian of these bears was also false because he was only really in the background of their lives.
Overall the films were interesting and gave two different views on human bear collabortation and I enjoyed them both very much.
[Write Comment]
By Jenna Ferri (05/07/10 16:01:11)
Related animal: Bear
The movies we watched in class this week were insightful and enlightening. While both has controversial issues supporting them like whether or not the two parties were actually helping the bears, the individuals definitely connected with these bears on a deeper level than many humans have.
The first movie was interesting in the fact that this couple didn't want to necessary get close to the bears and treat them as pets but instead wanted to observe their mannerisms and understand them better for educational purposes. This was apparent in the way they raised the orphaned bear cubs. They kept a very hands off approach and tried to keep them as wild as possible through minimum human contact. By treating all of the bears they came across in this way, they were trying to prove that in a peaceful relationship between bear and human, neither party should feel threatened.
In the second movie he took an entirely different approach, one I did not agree with. He treated these bears as if they were his pets and ignored the fact that human encounters were foreign to them and his way of interacting was probably threatening. By naming the bears it became obvious his obsession to treat these bears like pets or even equals not wild animals. What I disliked most was the way he tricked the bears to come closer to him by targeting their curiousity and then would hit them when they got to close for his comfort. This push pull attitude was confusing to the bears and in my opinion was not a positive experience. Also him thinking he was guardian of these bears was also false because he was only really in the background of their lives.
Overall the films were interesting and gave two different views on human bear collabortation and I enjoyed them both very much.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Reflection: Barbara's methods for animal connection
By Rachel Visalda (04/26/10 23:54:56)
When Barbara Janell facilitated the exercise to connect and feel what it is to be a particular creature, I didn’t really have a specific animal in mind. As she spoke I let my brain wander and allow for spontaneous thoughts. Immediately I became aware of a sensation of losing my limbs and imagined myself in another form. At first it was difficult- to be honest, I was skeptical of her methods. However, as soon as I latched onto this feeling of no longer being in my own body, I felt the sensation of crawling on the ground, of using my head to lead my movements-I felt what it was to be a snake.
After the exercise, I wondered which snake’s energy I had attempted to tap into, but didn’t think much of it until I got home after class and my roommate announced that she was getting a new baby boa. I’m not saying that it was this boa that I had necessarily connected with, but it is interesting that without effort, I had automatically thought of a snake during the exercise. How convenient that this new animal entered our apartment right after Barbara Janell’s workshop.
On the other hand, I’m still doubtful of some of the exercises that Barbara showed us. Is it simply me projecting my own thoughts? Am I only interpreting the snake’s feelings as a human, as I think they would? Is it just my imagination running away with me?
[Write Comment]
By Rachel Visalda (04/26/10 23:54:56)
When Barbara Janell facilitated the exercise to connect and feel what it is to be a particular creature, I didn’t really have a specific animal in mind. As she spoke I let my brain wander and allow for spontaneous thoughts. Immediately I became aware of a sensation of losing my limbs and imagined myself in another form. At first it was difficult- to be honest, I was skeptical of her methods. However, as soon as I latched onto this feeling of no longer being in my own body, I felt the sensation of crawling on the ground, of using my head to lead my movements-I felt what it was to be a snake.
After the exercise, I wondered which snake’s energy I had attempted to tap into, but didn’t think much of it until I got home after class and my roommate announced that she was getting a new baby boa. I’m not saying that it was this boa that I had necessarily connected with, but it is interesting that without effort, I had automatically thought of a snake during the exercise. How convenient that this new animal entered our apartment right after Barbara Janell’s workshop.
On the other hand, I’m still doubtful of some of the exercises that Barbara showed us. Is it simply me projecting my own thoughts? Am I only interpreting the snake’s feelings as a human, as I think they would? Is it just my imagination running away with me?
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Other Related Research
Reflections on Chapter 5 and 6 in Dolphin Mysteries
By Heather Sielke (05/18/10 05:33:07)
Related animals: Dolphin, Whale
In the book "Dolphin Mysteries" the part I liked a lot was that the dolphins like to play. That they play with seaweed and other creatures is great. I think it is a little rude to be using the octopus as a ball but funny that it got stuck to one of the dolphins faces. It is interesting to me that the only time Tony felt she was in grave danger was with captive dolphins that she was in the tank with. I feel that we put that kind of danger usually more with wild animals and that we have trained captive animals to not be. The interactive dolphin program can be the most dangerous it said in the book and when she came to talk to the class we found out they have to use so much chlorine to clean the tank that some of the dolphins go blind from it. Also the kids feed the dolphin whatever they want to throw at them and this can be very dangerous. I feel like it is much more exciting to see dolphins and whales in the wild and if done properly it can be much safer and enjoyable for the dolphins.
[Write Comment]
By Heather Sielke (05/18/10 05:33:07)
Related animals: Dolphin, Whale
In the book "Dolphin Mysteries" the part I liked a lot was that the dolphins like to play. That they play with seaweed and other creatures is great. I think it is a little rude to be using the octopus as a ball but funny that it got stuck to one of the dolphins faces. It is interesting to me that the only time Tony felt she was in grave danger was with captive dolphins that she was in the tank with. I feel that we put that kind of danger usually more with wild animals and that we have trained captive animals to not be. The interactive dolphin program can be the most dangerous it said in the book and when she came to talk to the class we found out they have to use so much chlorine to clean the tank that some of the dolphins go blind from it. Also the kids feed the dolphin whatever they want to throw at them and this can be very dangerous. I feel like it is much more exciting to see dolphins and whales in the wild and if done properly it can be much safer and enjoyable for the dolphins.
[Write Comment]
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Response on Fear of the Familiar
By Jessica Oropesa (04/22/10 23:48:46)
What I found to be most interesting in this text was the part where the author talks about love and its relationship with the ideas of Postmodern art. Luce Irigaray explains that "one should not have to give up love in order to become wise or learned" (186). The article continues to state that Postmodern art's struggle with the animal is all about distance. There was supposed to be a certain amount of distance between animal and artist for the work to be real or authentic. The article also relates the animal's ability to sometimes sweep the human off into the unfamiliar with love. The account of love and the work of love are concerned with seriousness rather than sentiment, according to Gillian Rose. The Postmodern artist's distance to love is what they pride themselves on, but what critics believe is necessary for true work.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Jessica Oropesa (04/22/10 23:48:46)
What I found to be most interesting in this text was the part where the author talks about love and its relationship with the ideas of Postmodern art. Luce Irigaray explains that "one should not have to give up love in order to become wise or learned" (186). The article continues to state that Postmodern art's struggle with the animal is all about distance. There was supposed to be a certain amount of distance between animal and artist for the work to be real or authentic. The article also relates the animal's ability to sometimes sweep the human off into the unfamiliar with love. The account of love and the work of love are concerned with seriousness rather than sentiment, according to Gillian Rose. The Postmodern artist's distance to love is what they pride themselves on, but what critics believe is necessary for true work.
Response to "Fear of the Unfamiliar"
By Matthew Roy Reeves (04/20/10 15:58:44)
Related animal: Hermit Crab
“Fear of the Familiar” delves into five categories that ironically confront the “characteristically postmodern dissolution of categories…in which categories and boundaries remain firmly in place” (166).
“Persistence of Animal Categories” describes different perspectives on an animal by comparing their wild and domesticated behavior. Philosophers Deleuze and Guattari describe “three kinds of animals:… ‘demonic animals,’ ‘state animals,’ and individuated animals.’”(168).
“They Are Perfectly Safe” describes the aversion of postmodern artist and philosopher toward domesticated animals. Baudrillard described the desire for these beings stemmed from an anxiety of castration. I find the desire is light-hearted and less sexually compensatory, however.
“An Unlikely Alliance” unites the artist with the animal in the creative process.
“Sentimentality” strikes at the root of postmodern aversion toward pets, given that animals cannot live as they are perceived by their owners without unnatural removal from their wild origins. Taxidermist Emily Mayer explains that “when looking at the realities of death as well as life in the wild, ‘its hard to sentimentalize.’” (174).
“Living Inexpertly with Animals” reveals the casual interest in experiencing life in an interspecies environment. Postmodern painters are mentioned to paint their pets from life, where the sharing of the space is the collaborative effort (180).
“Philosophers and Their Cats” legitimize the interspecies lifestyle among postmodern thinkers. Derrida’s cat, for instance, “allows him to see something of the otherness of all non-human animals” (186).
My final thought regards the audience of the fear of the familiar. Humans are the intended spectators of philosophical inquiry or artistic endeavors. Using animals is merely a base bridge to their personal levels, their vulnerabilities. Do not postmodern thinkers subsequently transform the animal into a pet by presenting their despising of the role of the pet to the audience?
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves (04/20/10 15:58:44)
Related animal: Hermit Crab
“Fear of the Familiar” delves into five categories that ironically confront the “characteristically postmodern dissolution of categories…in which categories and boundaries remain firmly in place” (166).
“Persistence of Animal Categories” describes different perspectives on an animal by comparing their wild and domesticated behavior. Philosophers Deleuze and Guattari describe “three kinds of animals:… ‘demonic animals,’ ‘state animals,’ and individuated animals.’”(168).
“They Are Perfectly Safe” describes the aversion of postmodern artist and philosopher toward domesticated animals. Baudrillard described the desire for these beings stemmed from an anxiety of castration. I find the desire is light-hearted and less sexually compensatory, however.
“An Unlikely Alliance” unites the artist with the animal in the creative process.
“Sentimentality” strikes at the root of postmodern aversion toward pets, given that animals cannot live as they are perceived by their owners without unnatural removal from their wild origins. Taxidermist Emily Mayer explains that “when looking at the realities of death as well as life in the wild, ‘its hard to sentimentalize.’” (174).
“Living Inexpertly with Animals” reveals the casual interest in experiencing life in an interspecies environment. Postmodern painters are mentioned to paint their pets from life, where the sharing of the space is the collaborative effort (180).
“Philosophers and Their Cats” legitimize the interspecies lifestyle among postmodern thinkers. Derrida’s cat, for instance, “allows him to see something of the otherness of all non-human animals” (186).
My final thought regards the audience of the fear of the familiar. Humans are the intended spectators of philosophical inquiry or artistic endeavors. Using animals is merely a base bridge to their personal levels, their vulnerabilities. Do not postmodern thinkers subsequently transform the animal into a pet by presenting their despising of the role of the pet to the audience?
Response to "Fear of the Unfamiliar"
By Matthew Roy Reeves (04/20/10 15:51:23)
Related animal: Hermit Crab
“Fear of the Familiar” delves into five categories that ironically confront the “characteristically postmodern dissolution of categories…in which categories and boundaries remain firmly in place” (166).
“Persistence of Animal Categories” describes different perspectives on an animal by comparing their wild and domesticated behavior. Philosophers Deleuze and Guattari describe “three kinds of animals:… ‘demonic animals,’ ‘state animals,’ and individuated animals.’”(168).
“They Are Perfectly Safe” describes the aversion of postmodern artist and philosopher toward domesticated animals. Baudrillard described the desire for these beings stemmed from an anxiety of castration. I find the desire is light-hearted and less sexually compensatory, however.
“An Unlikely Alliance” unites the artist with the animal in the creative process. “Sentimentality” strikes at the root of postmodern aversion toward pets, given that animals cannot live as they are perceived by their owners without unnatural removal from their wild origins. Taxidermist Emily Mayer explains that “when looking at the realities of death as well as life in the wild, ‘its hard to sentimentalize.’” (174).
“Living Inexpertly with Animals” reveals the casual interest in experiencing life in an interspecies environment. Postmodern painters are mentioned to paint their pets from life, where the sharing of the space is the collaborative effort (180). “Philosophers and Their Cats” legitimize the interspecies lifestyle among postmodern thinkers. Derrida’s cat, for instance, “allows him to see something of the otherness of all non-human animals” (186).
My final thought regards the audience of the fear of the familiar. Humans are the intended spectators of philosophical inquiry or artistic endeavors. Using animals is merely a base bridge to their personal levels, their vulnerabilities. Do not postmodern thinkers subsequently transform the animal into a pet by presenting their despising of the role of the pet to the audience?
[Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves (04/20/10 15:51:23)
Related animal: Hermit Crab
“Fear of the Familiar” delves into five categories that ironically confront the “characteristically postmodern dissolution of categories…in which categories and boundaries remain firmly in place” (166).
“Persistence of Animal Categories” describes different perspectives on an animal by comparing their wild and domesticated behavior. Philosophers Deleuze and Guattari describe “three kinds of animals:… ‘demonic animals,’ ‘state animals,’ and individuated animals.’”(168).
“They Are Perfectly Safe” describes the aversion of postmodern artist and philosopher toward domesticated animals. Baudrillard described the desire for these beings stemmed from an anxiety of castration. I find the desire is light-hearted and less sexually compensatory, however.
“An Unlikely Alliance” unites the artist with the animal in the creative process. “Sentimentality” strikes at the root of postmodern aversion toward pets, given that animals cannot live as they are perceived by their owners without unnatural removal from their wild origins. Taxidermist Emily Mayer explains that “when looking at the realities of death as well as life in the wild, ‘its hard to sentimentalize.’” (174).
“Living Inexpertly with Animals” reveals the casual interest in experiencing life in an interspecies environment. Postmodern painters are mentioned to paint their pets from life, where the sharing of the space is the collaborative effort (180). “Philosophers and Their Cats” legitimize the interspecies lifestyle among postmodern thinkers. Derrida’s cat, for instance, “allows him to see something of the otherness of all non-human animals” (186).
My final thought regards the audience of the fear of the familiar. Humans are the intended spectators of philosophical inquiry or artistic endeavors. Using animals is merely a base bridge to their personal levels, their vulnerabilities. Do not postmodern thinkers subsequently transform the animal into a pet by presenting their despising of the role of the pet to the audience?
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Response to animal communication workshop
By Veronica Kittle (04/22/13 11:31:55)
Related animal: Dog
The experience with the animal communicator was unusual but interesting. Barbara seemed like a very sincere and caring woman, who really believed that she had a special ability to telepathically communicate with animals. Let me say first that there has never been any conclusive evidence to support telepathic communication. Her main strategy to teach and convince others of this type of communication was to say that when done properly, you could feel the emotions or pain of the animal, or even see its thoughts. In the movie about animal communicators, one of the people taking the workshop commented how they weren’t sure if the voice inside their head came from her own mind or from the mind of the animal. She said that when you say “hello” in your mind, it is easy to imagine someone saying “hello” back. That’s all this is; imagination. What I’ve learned is that you can often make people believe something either because they want it to be true, or they fear that it is true. People who want to believe in animal telepathy can imagine that the feelings or pain that they feel is what the dog in the room feels, especially with the encouragement from Barbara. This is very similar to how religion can convince people to believe in the supernatural because either they want it to be true, or they fear the consequences if they don’t believe. The fact is, there has never been any evidence to support any religious mythology, but if so many can believe in religion, I can easily see how many can similarly believe in animal telepathy. It’s a nice thought, to think that an animal can communicate with us through some magical telepathic link. I used to wish I could when I watched Wild Thornberries as a kid. It just seems like another example of anthropomorphism, to assume that other species can communicate in a human language (which is what the movie seemed to imply).
As for the assignment to try and communicate with an animal in our neighborhood, I could never make a serious attempt to communicate, for I knew I would just be talking to myself. So instead, I simply tried to imagine myself in the place of the animal. I took a walk along the lagoon on campus and came across a beautiful little blue bird (maybe a blue jay? I don’t know my birds too well). He was holding what seemed to be a seed in his mouth. I tried to imagine where he got the seed, and what he planned to do with it next. I managed to stand there close to the bird for several minutes before he took off. It was a very nice experience, in a beautiful place.
[Write Comment]
By Veronica Kittle (04/22/13 11:31:55)
Related animal: Dog
The experience with the animal communicator was unusual but interesting. Barbara seemed like a very sincere and caring woman, who really believed that she had a special ability to telepathically communicate with animals. Let me say first that there has never been any conclusive evidence to support telepathic communication. Her main strategy to teach and convince others of this type of communication was to say that when done properly, you could feel the emotions or pain of the animal, or even see its thoughts. In the movie about animal communicators, one of the people taking the workshop commented how they weren’t sure if the voice inside their head came from her own mind or from the mind of the animal. She said that when you say “hello” in your mind, it is easy to imagine someone saying “hello” back. That’s all this is; imagination. What I’ve learned is that you can often make people believe something either because they want it to be true, or they fear that it is true. People who want to believe in animal telepathy can imagine that the feelings or pain that they feel is what the dog in the room feels, especially with the encouragement from Barbara. This is very similar to how religion can convince people to believe in the supernatural because either they want it to be true, or they fear the consequences if they don’t believe. The fact is, there has never been any evidence to support any religious mythology, but if so many can believe in religion, I can easily see how many can similarly believe in animal telepathy. It’s a nice thought, to think that an animal can communicate with us through some magical telepathic link. I used to wish I could when I watched Wild Thornberries as a kid. It just seems like another example of anthropomorphism, to assume that other species can communicate in a human language (which is what the movie seemed to imply).
As for the assignment to try and communicate with an animal in our neighborhood, I could never make a serious attempt to communicate, for I knew I would just be talking to myself. So instead, I simply tried to imagine myself in the place of the animal. I took a walk along the lagoon on campus and came across a beautiful little blue bird (maybe a blue jay? I don’t know my birds too well). He was holding what seemed to be a seed in his mouth. I tried to imagine where he got the seed, and what he planned to do with it next. I managed to stand there close to the bird for several minutes before he took off. It was a very nice experience, in a beautiful place.
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response to animal communicator
By Tanasa Slovin (05/04/10 11:20:01)
I have been dwelling on how I should go about responding to the animal communicator who visited us in class the other week. To be completely honest, I was not feeling the vibes that she was initiating to our class and communicating to the animals. Personally, I love animals and I’m not saying that I don’t believe in such a thing as an animal communicator, however, Barbara did not convince me. I know that wasn’t her purpose, but I felt that her views and her way of having this gift of communicating with animals and nature was not exactly executed the way I had imagined. I am a very spiritual person and I have a strong love and connection with the earth and animals in general, but the seminar in class was portrayed to be slightly flawed. It was difficult seeing that a lot of the class was feeling her vibes, and I wasn’t but it’s just how I felt. Anyway, I wanted to be completely honest and was glad to be exposed to the way she thinks and her particular views on communicating with animals and nature. Maybe one day I will remember all of the things she said, for example communicating with the energy of the trees. My view on the entire spectrum is that yes, I communicate with my dog Bradley in a way that involves a companionship. He’s comforting and always there for me, but I don’t believe that if we just stare into each other’s eyes and exchange feelings of a mental state that he will begin to feel what I’m feeling and vice versa. I think it’s healthy to be surrounded by animals and nature on a certain level, but I feel that the communication is more of a companionship and awareness of life and nature. I love spending time with my dog and I absolutely love to be surrounded by nature, but what I love about it is just the simple point of existing together, as opposed to a more intellectual form of communication, it’s more of a knowing, than a believing.
[Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (05/04/10 11:20:01)
I have been dwelling on how I should go about responding to the animal communicator who visited us in class the other week. To be completely honest, I was not feeling the vibes that she was initiating to our class and communicating to the animals. Personally, I love animals and I’m not saying that I don’t believe in such a thing as an animal communicator, however, Barbara did not convince me. I know that wasn’t her purpose, but I felt that her views and her way of having this gift of communicating with animals and nature was not exactly executed the way I had imagined. I am a very spiritual person and I have a strong love and connection with the earth and animals in general, but the seminar in class was portrayed to be slightly flawed. It was difficult seeing that a lot of the class was feeling her vibes, and I wasn’t but it’s just how I felt. Anyway, I wanted to be completely honest and was glad to be exposed to the way she thinks and her particular views on communicating with animals and nature. Maybe one day I will remember all of the things she said, for example communicating with the energy of the trees. My view on the entire spectrum is that yes, I communicate with my dog Bradley in a way that involves a companionship. He’s comforting and always there for me, but I don’t believe that if we just stare into each other’s eyes and exchange feelings of a mental state that he will begin to feel what I’m feeling and vice versa. I think it’s healthy to be surrounded by animals and nature on a certain level, but I feel that the communication is more of a companionship and awareness of life and nature. I love spending time with my dog and I absolutely love to be surrounded by nature, but what I love about it is just the simple point of existing together, as opposed to a more intellectual form of communication, it’s more of a knowing, than a believing.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Related to Animal Rights
Response to Artist Animal and Bees Making Art
By Brianna Acuesta (05/18/14 18:01:09)
Artist Animal:
Baker does seem to defend Jones a bit in terms of the Rat Piece because he constantly offers quotes from Jones that state that the audience could have done something about the situation and they didn’t. He also says that, although many may think that what he did was just refuse responsibility for saving the rats, it was just his way of expressing a reality that many people have never had to experience before. This reality is not just that rats have been historically burned alive because the rats are actually meant to be allegorical representations of the U.S. soldiers in Vietnam and those civilians. Furthermore, he notes that several other critics remarked on the audience’s lack of intervention as a key role in the success of the piece. Though these points seem to be defending or, at the very least, remaining objective about the piece, Baker’s main concern is that critics becomes aware of universal terminologies and perspectives rather than jumping to conclusions and stating their own opinion.
Is it ethical to use animals in science/food? I think the difference is that the individual artist has a choice to use the animal, and it could be a choice to send a message about the use of animals in science and food. With those other ways of using animals, a majority of people think it’s humane or necessary to use them. It’s all about the choice: artists don’t have to use animals inhumanely in their artwork, however they choose to and people, even those who use products tested on animals and eat meat, can’t handle it. I certainly can’t handle it, however I tend to also stray from eating any meat or using animal-tested products. I do not think it is impossible to ask the question of whether to use them in art exclusively, because the fact of the matter remains that art is not dependent on treating animals inhumanely. In science, it has become unnecessary to test on animals; however the alternatives are more expensive and could be less reliable, causing many companies to resist making the change. As for meat, it’s clear that it revolves around the animal and the only thing that may change with that is whether companies make the switch to better treatment of the living animals. That being said, I don’t believe that we should ever use animals for anything other than as companions if it can be done in a safe way that does not unnerve or stress out the animal. They should not be used for entertainment either.
There are two areas of trust that Baker explores in which he gives opposite approvals of trust. In terms of trusting an artist to work ethically with an animal, which I feel is the primary concern, we cannot trust the artist. When considering whether we can trust the artists motives, forms, and ultimate execution of the artwork, Baker says that we can mostly trust the artist. The perspectives regarding this trust varies widely, but I believe fully that we should not be engaging in any kind of work with animals that is harmful to them or us.
Bees Making Art:
I noticed that the notion of stronger or lesser emotional ties to certain animals was brought up in both texts. In Baker's, he notes that rats were statistically less inclined to gain an emotional reaction to them being burned alive than other animals, such as a dog. In Bees Making Art, the authors raise the point about the death of insects creating less emotional support from humans because we kill them everyday. Furthermore, the type of insect matters because, as mentioned in this text, insects such as bees and butterflies are valued more by humans and taken more into consideration when concerning ethics.
In both texts, there are differences between the way art uses animals in Baker's representation of it and the way that Kosut and Moore talk about the way bees are used in art. The bees are used more naturally and, though the exhibition is manmade, the way the bees add to it is natural for them. This same text uses these examples to raise questions about how humans can incorporate animals safely and naturally into their art. The suggestion is that when we work with animals, we de-center the focus on the artist and instead work to create a collaborative world that exists between the human and the animal. I agree that this is a safer, more humane way to work with animals and I believe that this is the method that I have employed in order to make my collaborative art.
Artist Animal (Book)
Bees Making Art: Insect Aesthetics and the Ecological Moment (Article) [Write Comment]
By Brianna Acuesta (05/18/14 18:01:09)
Artist Animal:
Baker does seem to defend Jones a bit in terms of the Rat Piece because he constantly offers quotes from Jones that state that the audience could have done something about the situation and they didn’t. He also says that, although many may think that what he did was just refuse responsibility for saving the rats, it was just his way of expressing a reality that many people have never had to experience before. This reality is not just that rats have been historically burned alive because the rats are actually meant to be allegorical representations of the U.S. soldiers in Vietnam and those civilians. Furthermore, he notes that several other critics remarked on the audience’s lack of intervention as a key role in the success of the piece. Though these points seem to be defending or, at the very least, remaining objective about the piece, Baker’s main concern is that critics becomes aware of universal terminologies and perspectives rather than jumping to conclusions and stating their own opinion.
Is it ethical to use animals in science/food? I think the difference is that the individual artist has a choice to use the animal, and it could be a choice to send a message about the use of animals in science and food. With those other ways of using animals, a majority of people think it’s humane or necessary to use them. It’s all about the choice: artists don’t have to use animals inhumanely in their artwork, however they choose to and people, even those who use products tested on animals and eat meat, can’t handle it. I certainly can’t handle it, however I tend to also stray from eating any meat or using animal-tested products. I do not think it is impossible to ask the question of whether to use them in art exclusively, because the fact of the matter remains that art is not dependent on treating animals inhumanely. In science, it has become unnecessary to test on animals; however the alternatives are more expensive and could be less reliable, causing many companies to resist making the change. As for meat, it’s clear that it revolves around the animal and the only thing that may change with that is whether companies make the switch to better treatment of the living animals. That being said, I don’t believe that we should ever use animals for anything other than as companions if it can be done in a safe way that does not unnerve or stress out the animal. They should not be used for entertainment either.
There are two areas of trust that Baker explores in which he gives opposite approvals of trust. In terms of trusting an artist to work ethically with an animal, which I feel is the primary concern, we cannot trust the artist. When considering whether we can trust the artists motives, forms, and ultimate execution of the artwork, Baker says that we can mostly trust the artist. The perspectives regarding this trust varies widely, but I believe fully that we should not be engaging in any kind of work with animals that is harmful to them or us.
Bees Making Art:
I noticed that the notion of stronger or lesser emotional ties to certain animals was brought up in both texts. In Baker's, he notes that rats were statistically less inclined to gain an emotional reaction to them being burned alive than other animals, such as a dog. In Bees Making Art, the authors raise the point about the death of insects creating less emotional support from humans because we kill them everyday. Furthermore, the type of insect matters because, as mentioned in this text, insects such as bees and butterflies are valued more by humans and taken more into consideration when concerning ethics.
In both texts, there are differences between the way art uses animals in Baker's representation of it and the way that Kosut and Moore talk about the way bees are used in art. The bees are used more naturally and, though the exhibition is manmade, the way the bees add to it is natural for them. This same text uses these examples to raise questions about how humans can incorporate animals safely and naturally into their art. The suggestion is that when we work with animals, we de-center the focus on the artist and instead work to create a collaborative world that exists between the human and the animal. I agree that this is a safer, more humane way to work with animals and I believe that this is the method that I have employed in order to make my collaborative art.
How To: Animal Communication
response to barbara janelle
By Jenna Ferri (06/05/10 17:15:20)
Barbara Janelle was not what I had expected. She was very calm and collected and didn't seem as "crazy" as an animal communicator would seem. She had some extremely interesting points that I thought were insightful. The exercises we did with the tree massage and the approaching a person from the side made me reconsider how I view nature and how my persona comes off to others.
This interactive experience got me thinking about doing a project with trees because they are so often forgotten when collaborating. I only got to the brainstorming process but I was trying to think of a way that human would be encouraged to interact with the tree and feel a need to reciprocate. I was thinking of hanging pieces of paper from the branches that give facts about how trees are used in medical uses and in collaboration with human all the time and juxtaposing them with facts on how many trees we cut down daily. While I think this would be an eye opening piece, it didn't quite lure people into experiencing the magic the tree has to offer so I aborted it.
Barbara Janelle though was very interesting in the way she could learn from the small signs of animals and she definitely got me thinking about alternative and less obvious ways of collaborating!
[Write Comment]
By Jenna Ferri (06/05/10 17:15:20)
Barbara Janelle was not what I had expected. She was very calm and collected and didn't seem as "crazy" as an animal communicator would seem. She had some extremely interesting points that I thought were insightful. The exercises we did with the tree massage and the approaching a person from the side made me reconsider how I view nature and how my persona comes off to others.
This interactive experience got me thinking about doing a project with trees because they are so often forgotten when collaborating. I only got to the brainstorming process but I was trying to think of a way that human would be encouraged to interact with the tree and feel a need to reciprocate. I was thinking of hanging pieces of paper from the branches that give facts about how trees are used in medical uses and in collaboration with human all the time and juxtaposing them with facts on how many trees we cut down daily. While I think this would be an eye opening piece, it didn't quite lure people into experiencing the magic the tree has to offer so I aborted it.
Barbara Janelle though was very interesting in the way she could learn from the small signs of animals and she definitely got me thinking about alternative and less obvious ways of collaborating!
[Write Comment]
Response to Barbara Janelle’s Seminar on Animal Communication
By Rachel Fleming (04/21/14 19:38:43)
Related animal: Dog
I first want to say that I’m thankful for the experiences I’ve had so far in this class. I may not hold the same beliefs as some others in the class about mystical or spiritual phenomenon, and I may not have a knack for feeling or understanding abstract or expressive art, but I’ve been diligent about reflecting on each experience and recording my critiques/opinions.
In the last class I can honestly say I tried to keep an open mind and suppress my demands for evidence in order to have new and interesting experiences (as much as I resented doing so). Although I may not have taken away some of the messages that Barbara intended for the class, I have taken away other important messages. What I found is that I learned a great deal about a new kind of spiritual “art” that I didn’t know existed before. I had heard of animal communicators, but had no idea how they went about reading animals. I wondered if it was based on scientific evidence (and if that evidence was sound or pseudoscientific), or if it was something else entirely.
From what I gathered from today, animal communication may be a very broad practice. Some may use communication methods that were developed scientifically, while others may solely rely on nonscientific, telepathic sensing and feeling. I honestly do not think that the telepathic techniques are in any way possible, which was mostly what I saw today. The notion of being able to actually put oneself into another body using imagination is (I’m terribly sorry) not possible. I was very glad when Mona asked a question about how to know if the signals we were getting were internal. That was a great question. I personally think that any signals or thoughts that crossed our minds today when pretending to be another animal were made up by our own brains…similar to what they do when we are dreaming. There has to be a neuroscientific explanation for this effect. The act of picturing oneself as another, though, is not useless. In fact, it is something everyone should do or at least consider regularly. Thinking about the needs of others and being sensitive to the emotions and responses of those around us is a great life skill. I’ve heard it called “emotional intelligence.”
The tree exercise was different. At first I wasn’t entirely happy that I needed to go talk to a tree. Interestingly, I knew I would get the sense that everyone else probably got from being near a tree. They do seem to have a sort of “presence.” Even I’ll admit that. However, this could be due to a multitude of things going on psychologically in our heads. When I walked away from my tree, I noticed only a change in temperature, which others may have felt but interpret differently. When I put my back to the tree, I felt a sense of comfort. However, I can feel the same kind of comfort from an inanimate object, such as a pillow against my back on my bed. I was careful in my interpretations of sensations. Although near the end of the encounter I was sort of over the idea of connecting with a tree, I did ask it a question….what is the meaning of life? My “response” was: sunlight. Ha…
Anyway, I kept feeling uncomfortable due to the unscientific nature of the seminar and couldn’t shake my skepticism. I have been trained to question everything I hear, and every scientific bone in my body was aching at some point during the experience. That sounds whiney but I really did feel quite uncomfortable. This was especially due to the fact that I LIKED Barbara. She’s so nice and has the most relaxing voice I’ve ever heard. It was like listening to piano music. I felt as though I was in a native Chumash tribe and that I was listening to an elder speak. Because I liked her (and also because I wanted to be polite to our guest) I didn’t want to offend her in any way and it was difficult for me to hide my expressions knowing she could probably tell that I was tense by my closed body language. I withheld many of my comments because I didn’t want to come off as being sarcastic, having already told the class earlier that I thought telepathy was crazy.
I did walk away with important new insights. I thought about how my relationships with humans and nonhumans could improve by remembering to put myself in their shoes. I also will try to put myself in the present and sense my surroundings as a way to relieve stress. This may be incredibly useful…I’ve been reading articles on stress relief for some time and have a new strategy to try. However, I think the most important takeaway from this experience was learning about my personal response to the information being presented to me. My reactions, feelings, and opinions about the topic provided me with insight about my values and thinking process. I value peace amongst differing minds and logical conclusions based on solid evidence.
I’m sorry to say that I will not be trying to communicate with an animal telepathically in the future. It would just be too uncomfortable for me. I would feel guilt for behaving in a way that a professional scientist would not, and this may cause a bit of internal conflict. Instead, I will think of an alternative. Since the goal is to gather information from another species, I will read the animal externally. I’ll comment on the degree by which I think my interpretation of the behavior was correct or incorrect. I hope this is alright.
Also, I keep wondering if others think I’m being closed-minded. I doubt anyone other than Lisa reads my entries, but here’s a note on that issue. When the information from Barbara’s talk was registering in my brain, it was not hitting a brick wall. It was hitting a filter, and very few points went through. Open-minded does not mean accepting everything you hear. It means considering everything and then making a conscious choice about whether or not you will accept it.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (04/26/14 15:09:27):
Great comments Rachel. I really appreciate how you are working on creating an understanding of your own thinking, reactions and believes. I actually also have a good amount of skepticism in me, but for me that makes me want to engage with this stuff more. Its like I have two completely different sides that wants to argue with eachother all the time…yes it does get exhausting.
By Rachel Fleming (04/21/14 19:38:43)
Related animal: Dog
I first want to say that I’m thankful for the experiences I’ve had so far in this class. I may not hold the same beliefs as some others in the class about mystical or spiritual phenomenon, and I may not have a knack for feeling or understanding abstract or expressive art, but I’ve been diligent about reflecting on each experience and recording my critiques/opinions.
In the last class I can honestly say I tried to keep an open mind and suppress my demands for evidence in order to have new and interesting experiences (as much as I resented doing so). Although I may not have taken away some of the messages that Barbara intended for the class, I have taken away other important messages. What I found is that I learned a great deal about a new kind of spiritual “art” that I didn’t know existed before. I had heard of animal communicators, but had no idea how they went about reading animals. I wondered if it was based on scientific evidence (and if that evidence was sound or pseudoscientific), or if it was something else entirely.
From what I gathered from today, animal communication may be a very broad practice. Some may use communication methods that were developed scientifically, while others may solely rely on nonscientific, telepathic sensing and feeling. I honestly do not think that the telepathic techniques are in any way possible, which was mostly what I saw today. The notion of being able to actually put oneself into another body using imagination is (I’m terribly sorry) not possible. I was very glad when Mona asked a question about how to know if the signals we were getting were internal. That was a great question. I personally think that any signals or thoughts that crossed our minds today when pretending to be another animal were made up by our own brains…similar to what they do when we are dreaming. There has to be a neuroscientific explanation for this effect. The act of picturing oneself as another, though, is not useless. In fact, it is something everyone should do or at least consider regularly. Thinking about the needs of others and being sensitive to the emotions and responses of those around us is a great life skill. I’ve heard it called “emotional intelligence.”
The tree exercise was different. At first I wasn’t entirely happy that I needed to go talk to a tree. Interestingly, I knew I would get the sense that everyone else probably got from being near a tree. They do seem to have a sort of “presence.” Even I’ll admit that. However, this could be due to a multitude of things going on psychologically in our heads. When I walked away from my tree, I noticed only a change in temperature, which others may have felt but interpret differently. When I put my back to the tree, I felt a sense of comfort. However, I can feel the same kind of comfort from an inanimate object, such as a pillow against my back on my bed. I was careful in my interpretations of sensations. Although near the end of the encounter I was sort of over the idea of connecting with a tree, I did ask it a question….what is the meaning of life? My “response” was: sunlight. Ha…
Anyway, I kept feeling uncomfortable due to the unscientific nature of the seminar and couldn’t shake my skepticism. I have been trained to question everything I hear, and every scientific bone in my body was aching at some point during the experience. That sounds whiney but I really did feel quite uncomfortable. This was especially due to the fact that I LIKED Barbara. She’s so nice and has the most relaxing voice I’ve ever heard. It was like listening to piano music. I felt as though I was in a native Chumash tribe and that I was listening to an elder speak. Because I liked her (and also because I wanted to be polite to our guest) I didn’t want to offend her in any way and it was difficult for me to hide my expressions knowing she could probably tell that I was tense by my closed body language. I withheld many of my comments because I didn’t want to come off as being sarcastic, having already told the class earlier that I thought telepathy was crazy.
I did walk away with important new insights. I thought about how my relationships with humans and nonhumans could improve by remembering to put myself in their shoes. I also will try to put myself in the present and sense my surroundings as a way to relieve stress. This may be incredibly useful…I’ve been reading articles on stress relief for some time and have a new strategy to try. However, I think the most important takeaway from this experience was learning about my personal response to the information being presented to me. My reactions, feelings, and opinions about the topic provided me with insight about my values and thinking process. I value peace amongst differing minds and logical conclusions based on solid evidence.
I’m sorry to say that I will not be trying to communicate with an animal telepathically in the future. It would just be too uncomfortable for me. I would feel guilt for behaving in a way that a professional scientist would not, and this may cause a bit of internal conflict. Instead, I will think of an alternative. Since the goal is to gather information from another species, I will read the animal externally. I’ll comment on the degree by which I think my interpretation of the behavior was correct or incorrect. I hope this is alright.
Also, I keep wondering if others think I’m being closed-minded. I doubt anyone other than Lisa reads my entries, but here’s a note on that issue. When the information from Barbara’s talk was registering in my brain, it was not hitting a brick wall. It was hitting a filter, and very few points went through. Open-minded does not mean accepting everything you hear. It means considering everything and then making a conscious choice about whether or not you will accept it.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (04/26/14 15:09:27):
Great comments Rachel. I really appreciate how you are working on creating an understanding of your own thinking, reactions and believes. I actually also have a good amount of skepticism in me, but for me that makes me want to engage with this stuff more. Its like I have two completely different sides that wants to argue with eachother all the time…yes it does get exhausting.
Other: Interspecies Communication
Response to Ch. 10. Nollman
By Tanasa Slovin (05/11/10 15:50:04)
Related animals: Dolphin, Tuna, Whale
Well first of all, I will not be eating tuna anymore. Second of all, I thought Chapter 10 of Nollman’s book was a brilliant conclusion that pronounced the break through of accomplishing Nollman & Katy’s goal of successfully interacting with human/dolphin music making. This break through that occurred in early February regarding the “percussive, and quite random—sounding like a room full of fast typists, if that can be imagined in two hundred feet of water” (p. 152). Then the unheard of happened, Nollman says, “Everybody—dolphins, humans, bottom fish, shamans, guitar players—everybody was playing music with everybody else” (p. 153). This is just really remarkable. I can’t imagine being there and witnessing all of these amazing sounds from wild animals. I thought it was really interesting that Nollman could even dignify that the particular note was the key of D-major. It was also amazing that Nollman would play a particular tune called “Misty” and that’s what the dolphins and the other underwater sea creatures responded to. Nollman also noticed the dolphins playing a game of swimming back and forth to the boat and back. Katy even interacted with the dolphins physically as she swam in the water, the dolphins would make passes at her, which was in fact another breakthrough. The outline of the chart of the story of the relationship of dolphins and humans is an interesting one to observe. Nollman created a chart showing how many days they spent out on the water, the amount of dolphin sightings, the amount of times the dolphins were heard and the rapport that was established. The rapport of the charts progress was dated from December, January and February. It shows that February was the most successful month in regards to the amount of response that was given by the dolphins.
Overall, the incident that happened with Fred Stern and his family was an unfortunate even to have occurred. It’s too bad that these events that had happened have made Nollman and Katy to suffer from too much negative public exposure. I enjoy that Nollman remains confident at the conclusion of the chapter by stating, “The gift given by animals is precious: a guide back to balance” (p. 159).
[Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (05/11/10 15:50:04)
Related animals: Dolphin, Tuna, Whale
Well first of all, I will not be eating tuna anymore. Second of all, I thought Chapter 10 of Nollman’s book was a brilliant conclusion that pronounced the break through of accomplishing Nollman & Katy’s goal of successfully interacting with human/dolphin music making. This break through that occurred in early February regarding the “percussive, and quite random—sounding like a room full of fast typists, if that can be imagined in two hundred feet of water” (p. 152). Then the unheard of happened, Nollman says, “Everybody—dolphins, humans, bottom fish, shamans, guitar players—everybody was playing music with everybody else” (p. 153). This is just really remarkable. I can’t imagine being there and witnessing all of these amazing sounds from wild animals. I thought it was really interesting that Nollman could even dignify that the particular note was the key of D-major. It was also amazing that Nollman would play a particular tune called “Misty” and that’s what the dolphins and the other underwater sea creatures responded to. Nollman also noticed the dolphins playing a game of swimming back and forth to the boat and back. Katy even interacted with the dolphins physically as she swam in the water, the dolphins would make passes at her, which was in fact another breakthrough. The outline of the chart of the story of the relationship of dolphins and humans is an interesting one to observe. Nollman created a chart showing how many days they spent out on the water, the amount of dolphin sightings, the amount of times the dolphins were heard and the rapport that was established. The rapport of the charts progress was dated from December, January and February. It shows that February was the most successful month in regards to the amount of response that was given by the dolphins.
Overall, the incident that happened with Fred Stern and his family was an unfortunate even to have occurred. It’s too bad that these events that had happened have made Nollman and Katy to suffer from too much negative public exposure. I enjoy that Nollman remains confident at the conclusion of the chapter by stating, “The gift given by animals is precious: a guide back to balance” (p. 159).
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Speciesism and Animal Rights
Response to Deke's performance of Wolf
By Montana McLeod (04/30/14 23:28:28)
Deke’s artistic approach on representing the endangered species is a brilliant idea. I truly believe that by declaring a species endangered we are placing a significant status on the animal in the natural world, however, that significance is typically lost as just a factual, brief statement.
The unknown threat of the endangered species list is that many animals enter the list and continue to persist or enter into a slow decline, but few recover enough to come off the list. In fact there are very few cases where species are taken off the list due to successful rehabilitation. Yes, providing statistics and dates as to when the animal is predicted to go extinct is effective and impacts the reader, but it really just provides people with the facts regarding the endangered species. I think what people need is to adhere to the emotions of the human population and to use the disposition of the animal to inspire others into taking actions. And not just within the constraints of its function in the ecosystem, but in the beauty of the interactive experiences and cultural adaptations.
Deke’s performance became more than just an educational reflection of the wolf species; it became an interpretation of their magnificent power. I was truly delighted to hear Deke discuss the reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone and how its introduction has changed the river. I have often read about their rehabilitation, needless to say this concept baffles me. Just say it, “Wolves changed the rivers.” It sounds absurd in some ways due to the typical depiction of wolves as the ultimate predator, the lone wolf, the big bad wolf. There are few nursery rhymes of the wolf as the clandestine hero. The environmental impact created by the reintroduction was a massive success, and I think any form of success with the Environmental Protection Agency is optimistic of a prosperous future. With that and the demonstration of the wolf through out cultural ideologies, I found a forthcoming appreciation for Deke’s extensive information regarding the many different perceptions of the Wolf and its significance to the living world.
With that being said, I also became vastly enlightened while, I must admit, simultaneously confused through out his performance. Deke was wonderful at engaging the audience in his seamless transitions and metaphysical connection to the wolf. His transitions seemed effortless and I often turned back to find him in a whole new attire without noticing the change at all.
I really valued the performative interpretation of the wolves through dance. Sometimes portraying animals in dance can be complicated in embodying a separate species without a comical approach. However, the wolves were well represented and effective in inducing the intended emotional response. Deke’s performance really helped me to construct an idea of how to portray an idea through performative art. I valued the way he was able to facilitate the wolf into a whole new image, separate from the preconceived notions that we have overtime acquired. His performative style made me question the ways in which we can interpret and portray art. I think that I have created this idea of the ways I know how to create art, but neglected that art can truly be represented in many explicit ways. The boundaries are essentially permeable.
[Write Comment]
By Montana McLeod (04/30/14 23:28:28)
Deke’s artistic approach on representing the endangered species is a brilliant idea. I truly believe that by declaring a species endangered we are placing a significant status on the animal in the natural world, however, that significance is typically lost as just a factual, brief statement.
The unknown threat of the endangered species list is that many animals enter the list and continue to persist or enter into a slow decline, but few recover enough to come off the list. In fact there are very few cases where species are taken off the list due to successful rehabilitation. Yes, providing statistics and dates as to when the animal is predicted to go extinct is effective and impacts the reader, but it really just provides people with the facts regarding the endangered species. I think what people need is to adhere to the emotions of the human population and to use the disposition of the animal to inspire others into taking actions. And not just within the constraints of its function in the ecosystem, but in the beauty of the interactive experiences and cultural adaptations.
Deke’s performance became more than just an educational reflection of the wolf species; it became an interpretation of their magnificent power. I was truly delighted to hear Deke discuss the reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone and how its introduction has changed the river. I have often read about their rehabilitation, needless to say this concept baffles me. Just say it, “Wolves changed the rivers.” It sounds absurd in some ways due to the typical depiction of wolves as the ultimate predator, the lone wolf, the big bad wolf. There are few nursery rhymes of the wolf as the clandestine hero. The environmental impact created by the reintroduction was a massive success, and I think any form of success with the Environmental Protection Agency is optimistic of a prosperous future. With that and the demonstration of the wolf through out cultural ideologies, I found a forthcoming appreciation for Deke’s extensive information regarding the many different perceptions of the Wolf and its significance to the living world.
With that being said, I also became vastly enlightened while, I must admit, simultaneously confused through out his performance. Deke was wonderful at engaging the audience in his seamless transitions and metaphysical connection to the wolf. His transitions seemed effortless and I often turned back to find him in a whole new attire without noticing the change at all.
I really valued the performative interpretation of the wolves through dance. Sometimes portraying animals in dance can be complicated in embodying a separate species without a comical approach. However, the wolves were well represented and effective in inducing the intended emotional response. Deke’s performance really helped me to construct an idea of how to portray an idea through performative art. I valued the way he was able to facilitate the wolf into a whole new image, separate from the preconceived notions that we have overtime acquired. His performative style made me question the ways in which we can interpret and portray art. I think that I have created this idea of the ways I know how to create art, but neglected that art can truly be represented in many explicit ways. The boundaries are essentially permeable.
[Write Comment]
Response to Grizzly Films & Russel's Response
By Tanasa Slovin (05/09/10 19:40:22)
The two films, “Walking With Giants” and “Grizzly Man” were filmed in very different ways that depicted the nature of the bears, Timothy Treadwell and Charlie Russell in a diverse manner. With “Grizzly Man”, I am not sure just how to view the true Mr. Treadwell seeing as it is so controversial with Charlie’s response to Timothy and the way that Herzog depicted the film. Who really knows how Treadwell wanted to be viewed or what he personally would have liked to be leaked to the public, etc. Bottom line is what’s done is done and no one will ever really know the truth behind the raw footage that only Herzog holds. Herzog definitely was successful in portraying the entertainment aspect of the film and showing the quirky, flamboyant, yet brave personality of Treadwell. With the film “Walking With Giants”, I personally did not like the fact that Charlie Russell used electric fences to confine the bears and protect himself. Bottom line is you don’t mess with nature and animals that are dangerous. Russell said it himself in the film, “One of our greatest concerns is that the cubs become too dependent on us.” I think it’s selfish of humans to act as though these bears are their pets- even though I know that that is exactly what Russell & Maureen did not want to do or portray. I think that if these people really want to learn about bears and observe them than that’s all that they should do... meaning that humans should only look but not touch. In response to Charlie’s response to Timothy, I think it’s absurd to focus so much on whether or not Timothy used pepper spray or an electric fence, obviously hurting bears was the last thing Timothy wanted to do, even if it put his life at risk. I personally do not think one should put themselves in the position of being killed simply to want to interact with these animals. If you love an animal so much you will leave it alone. Having this crave to want to interact with animals whom are so ferocious and using something like pepper spray in defense just completely goes against Russell’s love for the bears. I think it’s appropriate to study, observe and learn from them but I think Russell and everyone else with this passion should do it at a distance and respect their land, space and lifestyle.
[Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (05/09/10 19:40:22)
The two films, “Walking With Giants” and “Grizzly Man” were filmed in very different ways that depicted the nature of the bears, Timothy Treadwell and Charlie Russell in a diverse manner. With “Grizzly Man”, I am not sure just how to view the true Mr. Treadwell seeing as it is so controversial with Charlie’s response to Timothy and the way that Herzog depicted the film. Who really knows how Treadwell wanted to be viewed or what he personally would have liked to be leaked to the public, etc. Bottom line is what’s done is done and no one will ever really know the truth behind the raw footage that only Herzog holds. Herzog definitely was successful in portraying the entertainment aspect of the film and showing the quirky, flamboyant, yet brave personality of Treadwell. With the film “Walking With Giants”, I personally did not like the fact that Charlie Russell used electric fences to confine the bears and protect himself. Bottom line is you don’t mess with nature and animals that are dangerous. Russell said it himself in the film, “One of our greatest concerns is that the cubs become too dependent on us.” I think it’s selfish of humans to act as though these bears are their pets- even though I know that that is exactly what Russell & Maureen did not want to do or portray. I think that if these people really want to learn about bears and observe them than that’s all that they should do... meaning that humans should only look but not touch. In response to Charlie’s response to Timothy, I think it’s absurd to focus so much on whether or not Timothy used pepper spray or an electric fence, obviously hurting bears was the last thing Timothy wanted to do, even if it put his life at risk. I personally do not think one should put themselves in the position of being killed simply to want to interact with these animals. If you love an animal so much you will leave it alone. Having this crave to want to interact with animals whom are so ferocious and using something like pepper spray in defense just completely goes against Russell’s love for the bears. I think it’s appropriate to study, observe and learn from them but I think Russell and everyone else with this passion should do it at a distance and respect their land, space and lifestyle.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Response to Jim Nollman
By Norah Eldredge (04/11/10 08:56:06)
Related animals: Fish, Turkey
Of these two chapters by Jim Nollman, I found when he was defining what it meant to collaborate with an animal, what our relationship with them currently is, the be the most interesting.
The turkey introduction was a great way to understand how one could start to see these animals differently. He started out experimenting on the turkey and he quickly realized that even though annoying the turkey did get a response, he was not playing the flute for the turkey or with the turkey, but still in the roles of “human” and “subject”.
The next chapter explored things that I have thought about many times before. There is a divide that humans have between them and animals. We as humans need to explore ways to live with animals in a manner of mutual respect for each other. That all species are just trying to live and have energy and vitality to give to their world and environment. There is no greater species, but instead we have been given the opportunity as humans to change the current relationship that we have.
[Write Comment]
By Norah Eldredge (04/11/10 08:56:06)
Related animals: Fish, Turkey
Of these two chapters by Jim Nollman, I found when he was defining what it meant to collaborate with an animal, what our relationship with them currently is, the be the most interesting.
The turkey introduction was a great way to understand how one could start to see these animals differently. He started out experimenting on the turkey and he quickly realized that even though annoying the turkey did get a response, he was not playing the flute for the turkey or with the turkey, but still in the roles of “human” and “subject”.
The next chapter explored things that I have thought about many times before. There is a divide that humans have between them and animals. We as humans need to explore ways to live with animals in a manner of mutual respect for each other. That all species are just trying to live and have energy and vitality to give to their world and environment. There is no greater species, but instead we have been given the opportunity as humans to change the current relationship that we have.
[Write Comment]
Response to Readings Artist|Animal & Bee Art
By Mona Luo (05/19/14 01:15:04)
Related animal: Bee
The reading from Artist|Animal raised many uncomfortable and possibly unanswerable questions and concerns. But that was the point. Steve Baker does not outright condemn the two artists in this introduction as many people are wont to do. Instead, he opens his mind and the readers to consider what can be learned from these highly controversial pieces. To dismiss the pieces for being unethical would be both a poor display of faith in the artist as well as unproductive.
Both Rat Piece and Helena addressed the issue of audience intervention. Kim Jones remarked that if the audience had intervened the piece would not have been a failure. The fact that they did not says much about both art and human nature. If you had asked any audience member before they had seen the piece if they would have stopped a man from setting rats on fire, I’m sure you would have had a unanimous response that they would. And yet, in the heat of the moment, not one of them did. The position of audience member, the context of performance art, and the persona of artist all worked towards effacing the sense of responsibility in the viewers. It is easy to stand back a wag a finger at the artist, but it is also necessary to consider the audience as well. Physically, they could have stopped the act, but psychologically they were in no condition to do so. In many ways this harkens back to the infamous Milgram experiments regarding authority and diffusion of responsibility. Rat Piece gives insights to the ugly truths of human nature that would not have been unearthed except in the face of such inhumanity. I found it surprising that Evaristti received such backlash for Helena when he was not the one who switched on the blender. Although he may have thought that to kill was excusable for art, so too did whoever pressed the switch. Helena brings us face to face with the capacity for atrocity in the name of art.
The question of whether it was worth it, or necessary, or just to sacrifice these helpless animals in the name of art calls into question other practices as well. Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter makes this point when addressing the use of animals in science and for food as well. I don’t think it is fair to condemn one without considering all three. Is it fair to kill a cow so that a person can enjoy a burger when an artist is punished for leaving goldfish in blenders, giving insight to the capacity of humans for cruelty? Art has often been considered a luxury, but it is more than that. It is a medium which has the power to call into question the current state of affairs. It is not about complacency or norms, it is about challenging thought. Steak is a luxury. It is easy to dismiss these two artists as cruel or perverted, but then other “cruel and perverted practices” in the “noble” realm of science should be condemned as well. And perhaps they should. But since I enjoy eating meat, I feel I have no right to reprimand artists or scientists because I have likely been condoning activities that are as bad or worse than those listed in the introduction of this book.
As for Bees Making Art…the article was less controversial, but also raised some interesting points pertinent to this class. For instance, the question of what is a collaboration. The article begins by addressing artists working with bee byproducts such as wax. In this instance, the bees have no say whatsoever in the final work of art. Then artists using the bees to build the artwork itself. And yet, the bees still had almost no say in how the final work looked (not to mention they were still not present in the installation itself). Then the bees themselves as the art in instances of bee bearding. The bees were induces to swarm by the artist, but they were otherwise free to do as they chose. And finally works that really worked at considering the needs and natural behaviors of the bees themselves. This seems to be the zenith of the collaborative examples given in this article. Both the freedom of the bees is relatively preserved, while onlookers are welcome to admire their behavior in an artistic context. I don’t know how I feel about this as collaboration. It seems instead like an educational exhibition in a natural history museum.
[Write Comment]
By Mona Luo (05/19/14 01:15:04)
Related animal: Bee
The reading from Artist|Animal raised many uncomfortable and possibly unanswerable questions and concerns. But that was the point. Steve Baker does not outright condemn the two artists in this introduction as many people are wont to do. Instead, he opens his mind and the readers to consider what can be learned from these highly controversial pieces. To dismiss the pieces for being unethical would be both a poor display of faith in the artist as well as unproductive.
Both Rat Piece and Helena addressed the issue of audience intervention. Kim Jones remarked that if the audience had intervened the piece would not have been a failure. The fact that they did not says much about both art and human nature. If you had asked any audience member before they had seen the piece if they would have stopped a man from setting rats on fire, I’m sure you would have had a unanimous response that they would. And yet, in the heat of the moment, not one of them did. The position of audience member, the context of performance art, and the persona of artist all worked towards effacing the sense of responsibility in the viewers. It is easy to stand back a wag a finger at the artist, but it is also necessary to consider the audience as well. Physically, they could have stopped the act, but psychologically they were in no condition to do so. In many ways this harkens back to the infamous Milgram experiments regarding authority and diffusion of responsibility. Rat Piece gives insights to the ugly truths of human nature that would not have been unearthed except in the face of such inhumanity. I found it surprising that Evaristti received such backlash for Helena when he was not the one who switched on the blender. Although he may have thought that to kill was excusable for art, so too did whoever pressed the switch. Helena brings us face to face with the capacity for atrocity in the name of art.
The question of whether it was worth it, or necessary, or just to sacrifice these helpless animals in the name of art calls into question other practices as well. Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter makes this point when addressing the use of animals in science and for food as well. I don’t think it is fair to condemn one without considering all three. Is it fair to kill a cow so that a person can enjoy a burger when an artist is punished for leaving goldfish in blenders, giving insight to the capacity of humans for cruelty? Art has often been considered a luxury, but it is more than that. It is a medium which has the power to call into question the current state of affairs. It is not about complacency or norms, it is about challenging thought. Steak is a luxury. It is easy to dismiss these two artists as cruel or perverted, but then other “cruel and perverted practices” in the “noble” realm of science should be condemned as well. And perhaps they should. But since I enjoy eating meat, I feel I have no right to reprimand artists or scientists because I have likely been condoning activities that are as bad or worse than those listed in the introduction of this book.
As for Bees Making Art…the article was less controversial, but also raised some interesting points pertinent to this class. For instance, the question of what is a collaboration. The article begins by addressing artists working with bee byproducts such as wax. In this instance, the bees have no say whatsoever in the final work of art. Then artists using the bees to build the artwork itself. And yet, the bees still had almost no say in how the final work looked (not to mention they were still not present in the installation itself). Then the bees themselves as the art in instances of bee bearding. The bees were induces to swarm by the artist, but they were otherwise free to do as they chose. And finally works that really worked at considering the needs and natural behaviors of the bees themselves. This seems to be the zenith of the collaborative examples given in this article. Both the freedom of the bees is relatively preserved, while onlookers are welcome to admire their behavior in an artistic context. I don’t know how I feel about this as collaboration. It seems instead like an educational exhibition in a natural history museum.
[Write Comment]
Response to Russell and Grizzly Documentaries
By Alli Harrod (05/12/10 16:04:23)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
In Charlie Russell's response to the work and death of Timothy Treadwell and Werner Herzog's "Grizzly Man," Russell juggles Treadwell's methods and protocol in his interactions with grizzly bears with Herzog's skewed portrayal of Treadwell and his ethics. First, Russell explains that he and Treadwell personally differed in methods and protocol with grizzlies. While Russell used pepper spray and electric fences for his personal safety he criticized Treadwell for not doing the same. He warned Treadwell against not using precautions, claiming that Treadwell's death would "undo" any of Treadwell's efforts to change the relationship between humans and grizzlies. Russell also points out that Treadwell's methods and protocol did, however, work in the relationship between he and the bears successfully for thirteen years and that, with Herzog's portrayal of Treadwell, this fact is commonly overlooked by viewers who mostly see his death as a "deserving" one. Consequentially, Russell argues that Treadwell's work as presented by Herzog actually reinforces the opposite of Treadwell's message, that grizzlies are violent beings and that their relationship with humans should be one of fear so that bears do not attack humans and humans feel justified to carry guns and shoot bears. Herzog's work, Russell claims, traditionally aims to present bizarre characters, so Treadwell was presented as a "nut case with a death wish." He suggests that Jewel Palovak, Treadwell's ex-girlfriend who received all of Treadwell's tapes, should have been more discerning in filmmakers and found someone unlike Herzog who would have been more critical, knowledgeable, and "sympathetic towards bears." Russell states that Herzog's commentary actually "expounds his own, very simple ideas about nature and how man doesn't belong out there in nature with all these 'horrible' animals." I believe that when comparing "Grizzly Man" to "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia," an example of the importance between discerning filmmakers' methods of presentation and point of view emerges. Contrary to what Herzog presented, in "Walking with Giants: The Grizzles of Siberia" we see the embodiment of Russell's theory that grizzlies are "trustworthy...and man is not." In this film we saw how methods and protocol between humans and grizzlies differed (from Treadwell) and how an exact opinion of proper protocol was depicted (unlike what Herzog characterized of Treadwell.) While there were no scenes of pepper spray usage like Russell discussed, there were plenty of depictions of the use of a cabin and an electric fence for the safety of humans and baby grizzlies involved. I think that between the two documentaries there is a significant difference in protocol and personal ethics over how to keep one "safe" and what that means in the land of the grizzlies.
[Write Comment]
By Alli Harrod (05/12/10 16:04:23)
Related animal: Grizzly Bear
In Charlie Russell's response to the work and death of Timothy Treadwell and Werner Herzog's "Grizzly Man," Russell juggles Treadwell's methods and protocol in his interactions with grizzly bears with Herzog's skewed portrayal of Treadwell and his ethics. First, Russell explains that he and Treadwell personally differed in methods and protocol with grizzlies. While Russell used pepper spray and electric fences for his personal safety he criticized Treadwell for not doing the same. He warned Treadwell against not using precautions, claiming that Treadwell's death would "undo" any of Treadwell's efforts to change the relationship between humans and grizzlies. Russell also points out that Treadwell's methods and protocol did, however, work in the relationship between he and the bears successfully for thirteen years and that, with Herzog's portrayal of Treadwell, this fact is commonly overlooked by viewers who mostly see his death as a "deserving" one. Consequentially, Russell argues that Treadwell's work as presented by Herzog actually reinforces the opposite of Treadwell's message, that grizzlies are violent beings and that their relationship with humans should be one of fear so that bears do not attack humans and humans feel justified to carry guns and shoot bears. Herzog's work, Russell claims, traditionally aims to present bizarre characters, so Treadwell was presented as a "nut case with a death wish." He suggests that Jewel Palovak, Treadwell's ex-girlfriend who received all of Treadwell's tapes, should have been more discerning in filmmakers and found someone unlike Herzog who would have been more critical, knowledgeable, and "sympathetic towards bears." Russell states that Herzog's commentary actually "expounds his own, very simple ideas about nature and how man doesn't belong out there in nature with all these 'horrible' animals." I believe that when comparing "Grizzly Man" to "Walking with Giants: The Grizzlies of Siberia," an example of the importance between discerning filmmakers' methods of presentation and point of view emerges. Contrary to what Herzog presented, in "Walking with Giants: The Grizzles of Siberia" we see the embodiment of Russell's theory that grizzlies are "trustworthy...and man is not." In this film we saw how methods and protocol between humans and grizzlies differed (from Treadwell) and how an exact opinion of proper protocol was depicted (unlike what Herzog characterized of Treadwell.) While there were no scenes of pepper spray usage like Russell discussed, there were plenty of depictions of the use of a cabin and an electric fence for the safety of humans and baby grizzlies involved. I think that between the two documentaries there is a significant difference in protocol and personal ethics over how to keep one "safe" and what that means in the land of the grizzlies.
[Write Comment]
Response to the Animal Communicator
By Natalie Croak (04/13/13 17:09:12)
Related animal: Dog
During the past two lectures we have been discussing the concept of animal communication. I had heard of the concept of dog whisperers before but I didn't really know the full scope of it. I had no idea that animal communicators believe that they can communicate with animals hundreds of miles away and even with ones that have passed away. I was skeptical of animal communicators because although I believe that animals can communicate with each other much better than we believe they can, I do not think that they can communicate with us in a way that we would be able to understand. Also if communicators are able to talk to animals telepathically, why are they not able to do the same with humans? It would seem that psychically communicating with individuals of your own species would be easier than interspecies communication. I think that animals are able to communicate with one another and with humans more through body language, sounds, and scent markings than with actual thoughts.
I wish that I'd asked the animal communicator more about talking to deceased pets because I'm curious to know if she believes that animals have their own form of heaven. She obviously believes that their spirit continues on after their death but I wonder what she thinks their souls are now doing.
I think that the most interesting part of the workshop was when she had us attempt to go inside of our own pets. I have a yellow lab named Wally who lives in the Bay Area with my parents so I tried to think of what my dog would be doing at that time and what he would be thinking about. My dog is lazy and spends most of the day sleeping on his bed in the living room so that wasn't very interesting to think about so I started thinking about the cats that I live with. I live in a co-op with four cats named Oliver, Gypsy, Agamemnon, and Jake. I decided to get inside of Jake's head because he is almost completely blind. I imagined what it would be like to climb on furniture and play with Agamemnon while only having cloudy vision. Most of the time Jake doesn't act like he's blind, though he seems more cautious than other cats when jumping on or off of furniture. It was an interesting exercise and it got me thinking about possibly doing a collaboration with Jake in the future.
[Write Comment]
By Natalie Croak (04/13/13 17:09:12)
Related animal: Dog
During the past two lectures we have been discussing the concept of animal communication. I had heard of the concept of dog whisperers before but I didn't really know the full scope of it. I had no idea that animal communicators believe that they can communicate with animals hundreds of miles away and even with ones that have passed away. I was skeptical of animal communicators because although I believe that animals can communicate with each other much better than we believe they can, I do not think that they can communicate with us in a way that we would be able to understand. Also if communicators are able to talk to animals telepathically, why are they not able to do the same with humans? It would seem that psychically communicating with individuals of your own species would be easier than interspecies communication. I think that animals are able to communicate with one another and with humans more through body language, sounds, and scent markings than with actual thoughts.
I wish that I'd asked the animal communicator more about talking to deceased pets because I'm curious to know if she believes that animals have their own form of heaven. She obviously believes that their spirit continues on after their death but I wonder what she thinks their souls are now doing.
I think that the most interesting part of the workshop was when she had us attempt to go inside of our own pets. I have a yellow lab named Wally who lives in the Bay Area with my parents so I tried to think of what my dog would be doing at that time and what he would be thinking about. My dog is lazy and spends most of the day sleeping on his bed in the living room so that wasn't very interesting to think about so I started thinking about the cats that I live with. I live in a co-op with four cats named Oliver, Gypsy, Agamemnon, and Jake. I decided to get inside of Jake's head because he is almost completely blind. I imagined what it would be like to climb on furniture and play with Agamemnon while only having cloudy vision. Most of the time Jake doesn't act like he's blind, though he seems more cautious than other cats when jumping on or off of furniture. It was an interesting exercise and it got me thinking about possibly doing a collaboration with Jake in the future.
[Write Comment]
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
Response to The Postmodern Animal
By Mark Linggi (04/21/10 23:38:49)
Postmodern. If I was in a room filled with people and asked to raise our hands if we knew nothing about postmodernism, mine would probably be one of the first hands up. I'd hate to admit it (although I do), but postmodernism and I don't know each other too well. I guess this is why I am glade I got a further explanation from lecture.
Originally, I didn't get too much from the text. The words seem to bypass my consciousness and what I did pick up was the miniscule and the small details. Not to say its a bad thing, but not exactly what we were supposed to focus on. One such example, that I found particularly interesting, yet we were not supposed to focus on was how things are manipulated. Hate to be a broken record, but it has to do with science again. The paper talks about r-selected species. It says that r-selected species are invasive and nonnative species detrimental to a habitat and species living there. R-selected species are fast growing as well. This is partially correct. Not all r-selected species are invasive. In fact, in ecosystems like the rainforest, they are an important part of the life cycle. I also found it funny how the author didn't mention the other half to the story. Contrary to r-selected species, there are k-selected species as well. K-selected are slow, but put more of their resources in producing stronger and fewer offspring.
SIDE NOTE AND OFF TOPIC. I m finding this funny. When I m in art class I am the first one to defend science majors and get offended when scientists are told how uncaring and mechanical we are. But, and this is a big but, I am also the first one to defend art majors when scientists have something to say about us. Just in the same way, I get offended when assumptions are made against us art majors. This really off topic, but I just felt like putting this out there.
I thought the concept of love in The Postmodern Animal was particularly interesting. I like the idea that sometimes it is more than just a love for animals (I mean, who doesn't love animals?) but it is also about the love of the work with, of, and between animals. How the wisdom is steamed by this initial sense of love. For me, it brought a particular understanding of what I've always done is just combined what I love, animals and art, and pursued both knowledges without regard to the extra hardship that might have came from studying two completely different majors in 4 years.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Mark Linggi (04/21/10 23:38:49)
Postmodern. If I was in a room filled with people and asked to raise our hands if we knew nothing about postmodernism, mine would probably be one of the first hands up. I'd hate to admit it (although I do), but postmodernism and I don't know each other too well. I guess this is why I am glade I got a further explanation from lecture.
Originally, I didn't get too much from the text. The words seem to bypass my consciousness and what I did pick up was the miniscule and the small details. Not to say its a bad thing, but not exactly what we were supposed to focus on. One such example, that I found particularly interesting, yet we were not supposed to focus on was how things are manipulated. Hate to be a broken record, but it has to do with science again. The paper talks about r-selected species. It says that r-selected species are invasive and nonnative species detrimental to a habitat and species living there. R-selected species are fast growing as well. This is partially correct. Not all r-selected species are invasive. In fact, in ecosystems like the rainforest, they are an important part of the life cycle. I also found it funny how the author didn't mention the other half to the story. Contrary to r-selected species, there are k-selected species as well. K-selected are slow, but put more of their resources in producing stronger and fewer offspring.
SIDE NOTE AND OFF TOPIC. I m finding this funny. When I m in art class I am the first one to defend science majors and get offended when scientists are told how uncaring and mechanical we are. But, and this is a big but, I am also the first one to defend art majors when scientists have something to say about us. Just in the same way, I get offended when assumptions are made against us art majors. This really off topic, but I just felt like putting this out there.
I thought the concept of love in The Postmodern Animal was particularly interesting. I like the idea that sometimes it is more than just a love for animals (I mean, who doesn't love animals?) but it is also about the love of the work with, of, and between animals. How the wisdom is steamed by this initial sense of love. For me, it brought a particular understanding of what I've always done is just combined what I love, animals and art, and pursued both knowledges without regard to the extra hardship that might have came from studying two completely different majors in 4 years.
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Response to Toni Frohoff's Discussion & Ideas on Dolphin Collaboration Project
By Alli Harrod (05/23/10 21:45:49)
Related animal: Dolphin
In Toni Frohoff's discussion about dolphins with our class she shared knowledge that will help us with our dolphin collaboration projects on the boat on Tuesday. She discussed a range of topics from "dolphinality," echolocation, types of dolphins, threats that dolphins face as a species, and what we can do (or not do) to help. "Dolphinality," Toni explained, is a term that characterizes individual identities/distinctive personalities that dolphins have which separates each dolphin from the rest of the dolphin species. Dolphins are very social and live within their own "dolphin culture," in "fusion/fission" groups similar to human cultures, where dolphin societies are made up of individual associations in smaller 'subcultured' groups. Communication amongst these groups happens in various ways. Some of the communicative language that dolphins use, Toni explained, are echolocation, whistling, high frequency clicking, and blowing bubbles. She described that dolphins whistle in order to identify a speaker and express themselves through high frequency clicking or blowing bubbles (which she added, may be an expression of excitement or delight.) Their most advanced form of communication, however, is echolocation, which we as humans still know little about. Toni explained that echolocation for dolphins is like seeing sounds in frequencies, as humans would see x-rays as an analog, adding that their echolocation is far more advanced than our sonar.
The different types of dolphins that Toni identified and discussed with us are the coastal and offshore bottlenosed dolphins and the common dolphins, including a short-beaked and a long-beaked species. The short-beaked and long-beaked common dolphins are different species of dolphins because they still can not reproduce together since their genes are so different. However, both species' societies often move and interact in schools and super schools (over 1000 dolphins plus!) She explained that our class trip would be likely to see large schools or super schools swimming around our boat but regardless, we should heed the Marine Mammal Protection Act. This act states that only if animals (in this case dolphins) approach you, may you "hang out" with them and humans are never allowed to seek them out. Heeding this act, we discussed methods of dolphin interaction from a boat that does not breach its rules nor threaten to harm.
Ideas for dolphin collaboration project:
Many of my ideas prior to Toni's discussions with us and the knowledge that we could not stick anything over the edge of the boat, all of my ideas involved putting objects in the water in order to attract the dolphins closer to the boat. Since these ideas threaten to modify or change dolphin behavior, I disregarded them. Now I would like for my contributions to our class project to be related to the hydrophone and documentation of the event. Since dolphins' main form of communication involves sound under the water, I would really love if Toni's hydrophone works and is allowed on the boat. I would like to whistle and/or scat to the dolphins and see how they like it. Also, I converged with Heather, Travis, and James, and we have come up with ideas to present the event to everyone at the show. We figured that many people are not going to be aware of our interactions with the dolphins and what our intentions were unless we show a first hand account with some explanation. I think that all of our work involving interspecies collaboration in this class would be undermined if we did not present what we learned and the interactions that we have had in a way that an audience can relate to and resonate with (and hopefully decide as individuals that they would like to heed example and try interspecies collaboration for themselves and another species.)
Film -
Documentary/"Mock"umentary style (not the whole thing, just a little bit)
1. introductions (so that a viewer can know who we are and what we're doing)
A. Lisa
B. Toni
C. Captain
D. Some students
(hopefully this will give a picture of a statement of purpose)
2. 4 Cameras
A. One or Two on top of boat capturing (both) sides of water
B. Two interacting with students and projects
C. Heather's photo camera for stills
- maybe hook up microphone to camera?
-involve hydrophone recordings
3. Be in certain places for 4:30 ** recording moment (determine this amongst our group while we are on the boat and we evaluate what's going on)
4. Try to capture a brief description by a student or two from each project so that the viewer can get a sense of what is going on...***so that we don't just have a bunch of people flapping around a boat in black and white seemingly with out rhyme or reason and then some shots of some dolphins***...and then edit it to where there would be a brief description and then a shot of dolphin response.
This would be a good way to involve all different people from the class, what our purpose is/what we are trying to accomplish in connection with the dolphins, their actions, and footage of it...
[Write Comment]
By Alli Harrod (05/23/10 21:45:49)
Related animal: Dolphin
In Toni Frohoff's discussion about dolphins with our class she shared knowledge that will help us with our dolphin collaboration projects on the boat on Tuesday. She discussed a range of topics from "dolphinality," echolocation, types of dolphins, threats that dolphins face as a species, and what we can do (or not do) to help. "Dolphinality," Toni explained, is a term that characterizes individual identities/distinctive personalities that dolphins have which separates each dolphin from the rest of the dolphin species. Dolphins are very social and live within their own "dolphin culture," in "fusion/fission" groups similar to human cultures, where dolphin societies are made up of individual associations in smaller 'subcultured' groups. Communication amongst these groups happens in various ways. Some of the communicative language that dolphins use, Toni explained, are echolocation, whistling, high frequency clicking, and blowing bubbles. She described that dolphins whistle in order to identify a speaker and express themselves through high frequency clicking or blowing bubbles (which she added, may be an expression of excitement or delight.) Their most advanced form of communication, however, is echolocation, which we as humans still know little about. Toni explained that echolocation for dolphins is like seeing sounds in frequencies, as humans would see x-rays as an analog, adding that their echolocation is far more advanced than our sonar.
The different types of dolphins that Toni identified and discussed with us are the coastal and offshore bottlenosed dolphins and the common dolphins, including a short-beaked and a long-beaked species. The short-beaked and long-beaked common dolphins are different species of dolphins because they still can not reproduce together since their genes are so different. However, both species' societies often move and interact in schools and super schools (over 1000 dolphins plus!) She explained that our class trip would be likely to see large schools or super schools swimming around our boat but regardless, we should heed the Marine Mammal Protection Act. This act states that only if animals (in this case dolphins) approach you, may you "hang out" with them and humans are never allowed to seek them out. Heeding this act, we discussed methods of dolphin interaction from a boat that does not breach its rules nor threaten to harm.
Ideas for dolphin collaboration project:
Many of my ideas prior to Toni's discussions with us and the knowledge that we could not stick anything over the edge of the boat, all of my ideas involved putting objects in the water in order to attract the dolphins closer to the boat. Since these ideas threaten to modify or change dolphin behavior, I disregarded them. Now I would like for my contributions to our class project to be related to the hydrophone and documentation of the event. Since dolphins' main form of communication involves sound under the water, I would really love if Toni's hydrophone works and is allowed on the boat. I would like to whistle and/or scat to the dolphins and see how they like it. Also, I converged with Heather, Travis, and James, and we have come up with ideas to present the event to everyone at the show. We figured that many people are not going to be aware of our interactions with the dolphins and what our intentions were unless we show a first hand account with some explanation. I think that all of our work involving interspecies collaboration in this class would be undermined if we did not present what we learned and the interactions that we have had in a way that an audience can relate to and resonate with (and hopefully decide as individuals that they would like to heed example and try interspecies collaboration for themselves and another species.)
Film -
Documentary/"Mock"umentary style (not the whole thing, just a little bit)
1. introductions (so that a viewer can know who we are and what we're doing)
A. Lisa
B. Toni
C. Captain
D. Some students
(hopefully this will give a picture of a statement of purpose)
2. 4 Cameras
A. One or Two on top of boat capturing (both) sides of water
B. Two interacting with students and projects
C. Heather's photo camera for stills
- maybe hook up microphone to camera?
-involve hydrophone recordings
3. Be in certain places for 4:30 ** recording moment (determine this amongst our group while we are on the boat and we evaluate what's going on)
4. Try to capture a brief description by a student or two from each project so that the viewer can get a sense of what is going on...***so that we don't just have a bunch of people flapping around a boat in black and white seemingly with out rhyme or reason and then some shots of some dolphins***...and then edit it to where there would be a brief description and then a shot of dolphin response.
This would be a good way to involve all different people from the class, what our purpose is/what we are trying to accomplish in connection with the dolphins, their actions, and footage of it...
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Revised Profile
By Erik Shalat (04/17/13 00:45:12)
Related animals: Bird, Dog
Hello! My name is Erik Evan Shalat, and I am a long time compatriot of animals. Over the course of my life i’ve had three dogs, a cockatoo and several hamsters. I am a senior art major at University of California Santa Barbara and Interspecies Collaborative seemed like a great way to kick off my last quarter of college. In my time at UCSB i’ve always enjoyed watching the animal life on and off campus, watching the birds down at the lagoon and feeding the raccoons late at night outside the dorms. My favorite animals are fruit bats. Any mammal that can fly is okay in my books. As a cartoonist I have realized that in the same way that giving animals human-like characteristics makes them more relatable, giving humans animalistic traits or animal like postures makes their personalities more identifiable. My relation to animals hasn’t always been so beneficial, though. My cockatoo, Toby, is a problem child. He alternates between singing to me lovingly to getting out of control and biting me on a daily basis. Most of the scars on my body are from my bird’s outbursts. I think he is my closest animal relation, rocky though it is. I taught him to speak, he knows how to say “Hello Erik.” Unfortunately those are the only two words he knows and no matter what we try to teach him nothing really sticks. One of my goals for this class is to better understand the thought processes of animals to better get into Toby’s head and hopefully calm him down so that my parents won’t get rid of him while i’m away. My dog, Sandy, is more my dad’s dog but she sleeps in my room and waits for me when I go away to college, it’s very cute.
[Write Comment]
By Erik Shalat (04/17/13 00:45:12)
Related animals: Bird, Dog
Hello! My name is Erik Evan Shalat, and I am a long time compatriot of animals. Over the course of my life i’ve had three dogs, a cockatoo and several hamsters. I am a senior art major at University of California Santa Barbara and Interspecies Collaborative seemed like a great way to kick off my last quarter of college. In my time at UCSB i’ve always enjoyed watching the animal life on and off campus, watching the birds down at the lagoon and feeding the raccoons late at night outside the dorms. My favorite animals are fruit bats. Any mammal that can fly is okay in my books. As a cartoonist I have realized that in the same way that giving animals human-like characteristics makes them more relatable, giving humans animalistic traits or animal like postures makes their personalities more identifiable. My relation to animals hasn’t always been so beneficial, though. My cockatoo, Toby, is a problem child. He alternates between singing to me lovingly to getting out of control and biting me on a daily basis. Most of the scars on my body are from my bird’s outbursts. I think he is my closest animal relation, rocky though it is. I taught him to speak, he knows how to say “Hello Erik.” Unfortunately those are the only two words he knows and no matter what we try to teach him nothing really sticks. One of my goals for this class is to better understand the thought processes of animals to better get into Toby’s head and hopefully calm him down so that my parents won’t get rid of him while i’m away. My dog, Sandy, is more my dad’s dog but she sleeps in my room and waits for me when I go away to college, it’s very cute.
[Write Comment]
Ridiculous Pony Carousel
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 16:28:29)
Related animal: Horse
Ridiculous Pony Carousel
Upon our return from the Santa Cruz Island trip I was walking back to my car when I spotted something that grabbed my interest. It was a pony carousel set up on a field near the marina. There were four of the most miserable horses strapped to polls that protruded from a spinning center axis. The idea was that people pay the guy who sits next to this thing to strap their children to these animals and have them walk in a circle. As I approached them, I felt like I could see the boredom and utter anguish in the eyes of the animals. They desperately yearned to be in a field somewhere, doing whatever it is that horses do when people aren’t making them act ridiculous. Before I knew it I was talking, out loud, to one of the horses, telling him that I could sense its pain and hoping things would turn out alright. The horse turned and looked at me and stamped its back feet in the grass. I then reached over the fence and pet the horse’s head, which I think it enjoyed, though I don’t know anything about horses. Then a lady came with her three children, giddy with excitement over the event about to ensue, and paid the man to strap them in. The children got on the horses and as the man said whatever it was that he said to make the horses move I was confronted by the delight of the children and simultaneous exhausted misery of the ponies. I felt like I should set the ponies free but knew I couldn’t and I was bummed.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 16:28:29)
Related animal: Horse
Ridiculous Pony Carousel
Upon our return from the Santa Cruz Island trip I was walking back to my car when I spotted something that grabbed my interest. It was a pony carousel set up on a field near the marina. There were four of the most miserable horses strapped to polls that protruded from a spinning center axis. The idea was that people pay the guy who sits next to this thing to strap their children to these animals and have them walk in a circle. As I approached them, I felt like I could see the boredom and utter anguish in the eyes of the animals. They desperately yearned to be in a field somewhere, doing whatever it is that horses do when people aren’t making them act ridiculous. Before I knew it I was talking, out loud, to one of the horses, telling him that I could sense its pain and hoping things would turn out alright. The horse turned and looked at me and stamped its back feet in the grass. I then reached over the fence and pet the horse’s head, which I think it enjoyed, though I don’t know anything about horses. Then a lady came with her three children, giddy with excitement over the event about to ensue, and paid the man to strap them in. The children got on the horses and as the man said whatever it was that he said to make the horses move I was confronted by the delight of the children and simultaneous exhausted misery of the ponies. I felt like I should set the ponies free but knew I couldn’t and I was bummed.
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Other: Other Related Research
Rockfish
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 11:32:34)
Related animal: Rockfish
Rockfish
I first became interested in rockfish after our class visit to the UCSB REEF where about eight rockfish live together in a large circular tank. I was originally drawn to them after learning that even though they are kept within such close proximity to one another, they are incredibly territorial creatures and each occupy and respect the spaces dominated by the other rockfish in the tank. I saw this as an opportunity to do some sort of animal collaboration involving the mapping out of these overlapping tiny rockfish private properties that occur within the tank.
There are more than thirty species of rockfish that live in the Pacific coastal waters of North America, mostly living in the Gulf of Alaska. They can be as large as 41 inches long and as short as five inches, but most of them are between 20 and 24 inches. They are characterized by their bony spines on their heads and bodies. The spines are venomous, and although they are not toxic enough to be dangerous to humans, they can still cause pain and infection. Rockfish are somewhat bass like in shape and are sometimes referred to as sea bass. They are a common seafood and the most common species to be eaten are the yelloweye, quillback, copper, dusky and black. In the wild, rockfish are spilt u into three categories, shelf demersal, shelf pelagic and slope. Shelf demersal rockfish are those that live close to the shore, in shallow rocky waters. Shelf pelagic rockfish also live near shore, however they tend to spend most of their time occupying the water column up off the sea floor. Slope rockfish live in deeper waters, close to the continental shelf.
Rockfish are ovoviviparous, which means that they give birth to live young after they are fertilized internally. Rock fish grow very slowly and live long lives. Black rockfish do not become sexually mature until they are around ten years old and can live up to forty years. Other species such as the yelloweye do not become sexually mature until they are 15 years old and can live more than 100 years. The oldest rockfish to be found in the wild to date was confirmed to be 114 years old. Most species live their entire lives at a specific site and if they are captured and relocated they are known to swim back to their original site.
Young rockfish mostly eat plankton as well as small crustaceans and fish eggs. Adult rockfish eat fish such as sand lance, herring, and small rockfish, as well as crustaceans. Rockfish have a type of swim bladder that uses a special gas-producing and absorbing gland to change the volume of gas in the swim bladder, which is used to maintain buoyancy at different depths in the water. These swim bladders are damaged when fishermen reel rockfish to the surface too quickly for the gland to adjust properly. They often expand so quickly that they explode out the fish’s mouth, and tragically countless rockfish are killed this way every year by fishermen who throw them back while trying to catch halibut and salmon.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 11:32:34)
Related animal: Rockfish
Rockfish
I first became interested in rockfish after our class visit to the UCSB REEF where about eight rockfish live together in a large circular tank. I was originally drawn to them after learning that even though they are kept within such close proximity to one another, they are incredibly territorial creatures and each occupy and respect the spaces dominated by the other rockfish in the tank. I saw this as an opportunity to do some sort of animal collaboration involving the mapping out of these overlapping tiny rockfish private properties that occur within the tank.
There are more than thirty species of rockfish that live in the Pacific coastal waters of North America, mostly living in the Gulf of Alaska. They can be as large as 41 inches long and as short as five inches, but most of them are between 20 and 24 inches. They are characterized by their bony spines on their heads and bodies. The spines are venomous, and although they are not toxic enough to be dangerous to humans, they can still cause pain and infection. Rockfish are somewhat bass like in shape and are sometimes referred to as sea bass. They are a common seafood and the most common species to be eaten are the yelloweye, quillback, copper, dusky and black. In the wild, rockfish are spilt u into three categories, shelf demersal, shelf pelagic and slope. Shelf demersal rockfish are those that live close to the shore, in shallow rocky waters. Shelf pelagic rockfish also live near shore, however they tend to spend most of their time occupying the water column up off the sea floor. Slope rockfish live in deeper waters, close to the continental shelf.
Rockfish are ovoviviparous, which means that they give birth to live young after they are fertilized internally. Rock fish grow very slowly and live long lives. Black rockfish do not become sexually mature until they are around ten years old and can live up to forty years. Other species such as the yelloweye do not become sexually mature until they are 15 years old and can live more than 100 years. The oldest rockfish to be found in the wild to date was confirmed to be 114 years old. Most species live their entire lives at a specific site and if they are captured and relocated they are known to swim back to their original site.
Young rockfish mostly eat plankton as well as small crustaceans and fish eggs. Adult rockfish eat fish such as sand lance, herring, and small rockfish, as well as crustaceans. Rockfish have a type of swim bladder that uses a special gas-producing and absorbing gland to change the volume of gas in the swim bladder, which is used to maintain buoyancy at different depths in the water. These swim bladders are damaged when fishermen reel rockfish to the surface too quickly for the gland to adjust properly. They often expand so quickly that they explode out the fish’s mouth, and tragically countless rockfish are killed this way every year by fishermen who throw them back while trying to catch halibut and salmon.
Yelloweye Rockfish | 
Yelloweye Rockfish |
Black Rockfish |
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Santa Cruz island
By Michael Walter Lambert (04/22/09 20:42:06)
Related animals: Bird, Fish, Flea, Fox, Frog, Human, Insect, Lizard, Pond Life, Quail, Spider
This past weekend our group from our class 185 LJ Interspecies collaboration went to Santa Cruz Island, one of the Channel Islands. Santa Cruz is an hour and a half boat ride from Ventura. The harbor was Island Packers. This trip allowed us to experience nature the natural way, to see other forms of life in an unaltered way. The trip included sea life as well as life on land. Along with the animals there were countless species of plant life. Apparently there is a movement to remove all non-native plants from the island. So we as a class saw how the landscape looked with both categories of plants. There are common plants, the invasive plants, and even plants endemic to the island. There are plants at Santa Cruz Island that you can't find any where else in the world. I don't know how but people are trying to get rid of invasive plants.
The location of the island and its mountainous terrain makes it hard for larger land mammals to inhabit the island. There isn't much as far as animal life on the island, this even goes for human life. Surprisingly humans have not inhabited the island or if they had they had left. Most of the larger mammals on the trip we saw were sea mammals. Although I didn't see, apparently there were dolphins and sea lions. Some of our group went sea diving and saw many sea animals. But personally from the boat I saw, I think, two whales. They came up from the water every few minutes, and they seemed curious about the boat. They must live close to the surface since they need to breath air. It seems they are social since we saw them in a pair. I enjoyed their fluid motions, and their apparent curiosity of our boat. They are quite friendly, and of course enormous in size. Their shear size makes them relatively easy to locate. I heard they communicate through sound and even have been the subject of a song with a human collaborator.
As far as other sea life I saw crabs, fish, and tadpoles. Interestingly the tadpoles are in small pools of water and are immensely abundant which is strange because we encountered such a small number of adult frogs. The crabs breath in water but do spend some time on land.
As far as other animal life we mainly just saw frogs and lizards and many insects. It was almost like more of an insect world, really. As far as land mammals there were freak like skunks and miniature foxes. The foxes weighed about four pounds. I saw neither of these but had heard of sightings of both from the group. What I did see was an ever moving world of wild life bugs. Just above my bed in the cabin was a whole family of daddy longlegs. There were easily ten plus spiders a foot from my bed. I even witnessed one of the smaller spiders devouring a mosquito. The mosquitos were very into us, we are their parasitic food. The place was busing with insects both visually and audibly. The loudest of which had to be the crickets. There were plenty of animal noises which interested many of the group.
Another common animal on the island were lizards, I saw at least two different species. They were crawling all over the place in the hot sun. It is interesting how they alternate between the sun and the shade. They seemed to react to us humans, communicating what I don't know. I think they are fond of the climate. On our trip I went on many hikes and was able to witness many of these animals and their habits in their habitat. I also got to see how the different humans reacted differently to the animals and how they went about their projects with the animals. Their were more than one way of communication. I made some attempts to communicate with some birds but to no avail. One thing about the animals is that they don't claim the island to be theirs. Hiking and observing was the best I could do. Are animals interested in art? I'm trying to find out. At the very least they could be the subject of art. All are capable of reacting to stimuli, but can they move past instinct and deliberatively conspire with humans to work together in an art project? Probably we can find out through communication. For this class I plan to work with my family dog who is highly intelligent and very sweet and friendly. He has shown the ability to understand some of our dialect. I'm sure he would be willing to do an art project of some kind with me. Being that we know each other he would be an ideal subject for me
[Write Comment]
By Michael Walter Lambert (04/22/09 20:42:06)
Related animals: Bird, Fish, Flea, Fox, Frog, Human, Insect, Lizard, Pond Life, Quail, Spider
This past weekend our group from our class 185 LJ Interspecies collaboration went to Santa Cruz Island, one of the Channel Islands. Santa Cruz is an hour and a half boat ride from Ventura. The harbor was Island Packers. This trip allowed us to experience nature the natural way, to see other forms of life in an unaltered way. The trip included sea life as well as life on land. Along with the animals there were countless species of plant life. Apparently there is a movement to remove all non-native plants from the island. So we as a class saw how the landscape looked with both categories of plants. There are common plants, the invasive plants, and even plants endemic to the island. There are plants at Santa Cruz Island that you can't find any where else in the world. I don't know how but people are trying to get rid of invasive plants.
The location of the island and its mountainous terrain makes it hard for larger land mammals to inhabit the island. There isn't much as far as animal life on the island, this even goes for human life. Surprisingly humans have not inhabited the island or if they had they had left. Most of the larger mammals on the trip we saw were sea mammals. Although I didn't see, apparently there were dolphins and sea lions. Some of our group went sea diving and saw many sea animals. But personally from the boat I saw, I think, two whales. They came up from the water every few minutes, and they seemed curious about the boat. They must live close to the surface since they need to breath air. It seems they are social since we saw them in a pair. I enjoyed their fluid motions, and their apparent curiosity of our boat. They are quite friendly, and of course enormous in size. Their shear size makes them relatively easy to locate. I heard they communicate through sound and even have been the subject of a song with a human collaborator.
As far as other sea life I saw crabs, fish, and tadpoles. Interestingly the tadpoles are in small pools of water and are immensely abundant which is strange because we encountered such a small number of adult frogs. The crabs breath in water but do spend some time on land.
As far as other animal life we mainly just saw frogs and lizards and many insects. It was almost like more of an insect world, really. As far as land mammals there were freak like skunks and miniature foxes. The foxes weighed about four pounds. I saw neither of these but had heard of sightings of both from the group. What I did see was an ever moving world of wild life bugs. Just above my bed in the cabin was a whole family of daddy longlegs. There were easily ten plus spiders a foot from my bed. I even witnessed one of the smaller spiders devouring a mosquito. The mosquitos were very into us, we are their parasitic food. The place was busing with insects both visually and audibly. The loudest of which had to be the crickets. There were plenty of animal noises which interested many of the group.
Another common animal on the island were lizards, I saw at least two different species. They were crawling all over the place in the hot sun. It is interesting how they alternate between the sun and the shade. They seemed to react to us humans, communicating what I don't know. I think they are fond of the climate. On our trip I went on many hikes and was able to witness many of these animals and their habits in their habitat. I also got to see how the different humans reacted differently to the animals and how they went about their projects with the animals. Their were more than one way of communication. I made some attempts to communicate with some birds but to no avail. One thing about the animals is that they don't claim the island to be theirs. Hiking and observing was the best I could do. Are animals interested in art? I'm trying to find out. At the very least they could be the subject of art. All are capable of reacting to stimuli, but can they move past instinct and deliberatively conspire with humans to work together in an art project? Probably we can find out through communication. For this class I plan to work with my family dog who is highly intelligent and very sweet and friendly. He has shown the ability to understand some of our dialect. I'm sure he would be willing to do an art project of some kind with me. Being that we know each other he would be an ideal subject for me
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Santa Cruz Island
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 22:18:21)
Related animal: Tadpole
Santa Cruz Island
On our recent class trip to Santa Cruz Island for a three day and two night stay, I learned that when anticipating a collaboration with animals in the wild one must be incredibly patient. Upon our arrival to the island I didn’t quite know what to expect. I had heard that animals on the island were actually quite scarce, but still I kept my hopes high. I soon found that I would never be able to collaborate with any of the animals if I wandered around the island looking for them. I also discovered that since they are wild animals, their exact behavior cannot be known ahead of time, and that the best collaborations to occur in the wild would probably be those that are spontaneous. With this in mind I went off on a walk through nature by myself, being very mindful of the movements and sounds going on all around me. I walked along a trail for quite some time, without any idea of where exactly I was heading. At one point I stopped to sit in some grass to observe my surroundings. I soon found that as I stayed still, signs of animal activity were popping up all around me. By remaining very still myself, I became keen to the movements of the insects on the plants around me. I watched a dragon fly bask in the sun as it stretched its wings. I watched a large beetle scuttle across the ground and down into a hole below a rock. I even saw a lizard shoot out across a log before retuning to its recluse in the shadows. From this I learned that the best way to see animals in the wild is to actually become part of the environment, staying still and calm as possible.
I then continued my hike along my trail to the unknown until I came upon a flowing creek. I took off my shoes to cross it and as I did, I noticed that it was full of tiny tadpoles. I had not noticed the tadpoles until my shadow fell across the creek, startling them and causing them to change positions rapidly. I then realized that as I stood still in the creek and moved my arms about, the shadows that fell upon the waters caused the tadpoles to swim in various directions. It was as though I was herding them together, using my shadow as a sheepdog. Although I did see this as a small form of collaboration, I was not entirely satisfied with it. I felt as though I was too in control of the situation, after all, my conscious decisions were scaring the tadpoles into moving around. I was not exactly fond of the idea of scaring the tadpoles into collaboration and I decided to let them get back to their metamorphosis as I continued on my walk.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 22:18:21)
Related animal: Tadpole
Santa Cruz Island
On our recent class trip to Santa Cruz Island for a three day and two night stay, I learned that when anticipating a collaboration with animals in the wild one must be incredibly patient. Upon our arrival to the island I didn’t quite know what to expect. I had heard that animals on the island were actually quite scarce, but still I kept my hopes high. I soon found that I would never be able to collaborate with any of the animals if I wandered around the island looking for them. I also discovered that since they are wild animals, their exact behavior cannot be known ahead of time, and that the best collaborations to occur in the wild would probably be those that are spontaneous. With this in mind I went off on a walk through nature by myself, being very mindful of the movements and sounds going on all around me. I walked along a trail for quite some time, without any idea of where exactly I was heading. At one point I stopped to sit in some grass to observe my surroundings. I soon found that as I stayed still, signs of animal activity were popping up all around me. By remaining very still myself, I became keen to the movements of the insects on the plants around me. I watched a dragon fly bask in the sun as it stretched its wings. I watched a large beetle scuttle across the ground and down into a hole below a rock. I even saw a lizard shoot out across a log before retuning to its recluse in the shadows. From this I learned that the best way to see animals in the wild is to actually become part of the environment, staying still and calm as possible.
I then continued my hike along my trail to the unknown until I came upon a flowing creek. I took off my shoes to cross it and as I did, I noticed that it was full of tiny tadpoles. I had not noticed the tadpoles until my shadow fell across the creek, startling them and causing them to change positions rapidly. I then realized that as I stood still in the creek and moved my arms about, the shadows that fell upon the waters caused the tadpoles to swim in various directions. It was as though I was herding them together, using my shadow as a sheepdog. Although I did see this as a small form of collaboration, I was not entirely satisfied with it. I felt as though I was too in control of the situation, after all, my conscious decisions were scaring the tadpoles into moving around. I was not exactly fond of the idea of scaring the tadpoles into collaboration and I decided to let them get back to their metamorphosis as I continued on my walk.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Santa Cruz Island
By Andrea Chase (05/24/10 17:18:22)
Related animals: Anemone, Bald Eagle, Bird, Dolphin, Fish, Fox, Garibaldi, Human, Hummingbird, Hump Back Whale, Humpback Whale, Marine Invertabrate, Mosquito, Mosquito Eater, Pond Life, Quail, Raven, Sea Urchin, Seagull, Seal, Shark, Star Fish, Tadpole, Tree, Turkey, Whale
Above is the list of all the animals our class saw and coincidentally interacted with on Santa Cruz island. On the whole I would say that we did not do a spectacular job at treating the animals as equals or partners in our interactions. I personally know that I could not overcome my shock, awe, and excitement upon visitation from the various creatures on and around the island. Despite the fact that I could not immediately curb my "natural" reaction to react to the animals, I am proud of the the fact that I have developed a certain consciousness about my integrity in interacting with animals.
On a different note the trip on a whole was wildly successful in having fun and creating a new conscious awareness concerning human affects on animals. Personally I feel a different consensus about my perception of every animal. The trip has helped me to adapt a universalistic attitude toward all life, something I have always tried to adhere to due to Buddhist philosophies. In terms of the animals I did not do much collaborating through art work. The only blatant moment of artistic interaction producing a tangible piece was when a beautiful orange and red dragonfly felt inclined to investigate me allowing me to draw him for a subsequent 20 minutes or so. In the likes of performance art one could say our adventure swimming with tadpoles at the swimming hole could function as such. Additionally while at the swimming hole, above the waterfall itself, I had the pleasure of watching the natural order of swallows guarding and feeding their young. Serena felt particularly inspired to build a nest for them, but then soon after realized that we had neither the supplies or the original innovation tied to the idea.
The experience itself was so fulfilling I cannot begin to truly describe how I felt or what I experienced. Only a mere 3 days felt like a week. An adventurously wonderful weekend played out with hiking, climbing, napping, and celebrating, and the animals seemed to want to interact with us at every corner.
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (05/24/10 17:18:22)
Related animals: Anemone, Bald Eagle, Bird, Dolphin, Fish, Fox, Garibaldi, Human, Hummingbird, Hump Back Whale, Humpback Whale, Marine Invertabrate, Mosquito, Mosquito Eater, Pond Life, Quail, Raven, Sea Urchin, Seagull, Seal, Shark, Star Fish, Tadpole, Tree, Turkey, Whale
Above is the list of all the animals our class saw and coincidentally interacted with on Santa Cruz island. On the whole I would say that we did not do a spectacular job at treating the animals as equals or partners in our interactions. I personally know that I could not overcome my shock, awe, and excitement upon visitation from the various creatures on and around the island. Despite the fact that I could not immediately curb my "natural" reaction to react to the animals, I am proud of the the fact that I have developed a certain consciousness about my integrity in interacting with animals.
On a different note the trip on a whole was wildly successful in having fun and creating a new conscious awareness concerning human affects on animals. Personally I feel a different consensus about my perception of every animal. The trip has helped me to adapt a universalistic attitude toward all life, something I have always tried to adhere to due to Buddhist philosophies. In terms of the animals I did not do much collaborating through art work. The only blatant moment of artistic interaction producing a tangible piece was when a beautiful orange and red dragonfly felt inclined to investigate me allowing me to draw him for a subsequent 20 minutes or so. In the likes of performance art one could say our adventure swimming with tadpoles at the swimming hole could function as such. Additionally while at the swimming hole, above the waterfall itself, I had the pleasure of watching the natural order of swallows guarding and feeding their young. Serena felt particularly inspired to build a nest for them, but then soon after realized that we had neither the supplies or the original innovation tied to the idea.
The experience itself was so fulfilling I cannot begin to truly describe how I felt or what I experienced. Only a mere 3 days felt like a week. An adventurously wonderful weekend played out with hiking, climbing, napping, and celebrating, and the animals seemed to want to interact with us at every corner.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Santa Cruz Island
By Tanasa Slovin (05/25/10 21:52:58)
The weekend spent in Santa Cruz Island was wonderful! We were very lucky to have seen a diverse and wide variety of beautiful animals. Just as we left Ventura, we saw a pod of dolphins consisting of about 100-300! It was the first time that I had ever seen a wild dolphin and words cannot explain the feeling of witnessing something so beautiful in mother nature. We also saw about ten humpback whales through out the trip, which was just spectacular. When we were on our way to the island we saw hundreds of dolphins swimming through the sea. Then unexpectedly, a sea lion came out of nowhere and began to copy the dolphins! It was hysterical. Obviously the poor sea lion wasn’t as graceful nor as fast as the rest of his/her dolphin friends, but it was just precious to see this sea lion try to become one with the dolphins and he/she loved the attention that we gave him! Of course the most memorable moment of the trip was when the humpback whale was so close to us that when he opened his mouth, we could smell his or her breath! It was gross, but also quite amazing at the same time. I found myself collaborating with the plants and nature when we went on our hikes just as much as I collaborated with the non-humans of the island. I took some beautiful photo’s of the dolphins, humpback whales, interesting spiders and luckily a small, slightly blurry photo of a bald eagle right before we left the island on Monday. I did see quite a lot of foxes, but never was around my camera to capture the moment. But sometimes I think it is more important to just enjoy the moment while it lasts instead of stressing to find a camera to capture the image. Overall, it was an amazing trip. Spotting thousands of dolphins, nearly ten humpback whales, interesting spiders, little cute foxes (who steal socks) and last but not least a bald eagle! It was a great experience and I cannot wait to go back and visit all of my nonhuman friends ☺
[Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (05/25/10 21:52:58)
The weekend spent in Santa Cruz Island was wonderful! We were very lucky to have seen a diverse and wide variety of beautiful animals. Just as we left Ventura, we saw a pod of dolphins consisting of about 100-300! It was the first time that I had ever seen a wild dolphin and words cannot explain the feeling of witnessing something so beautiful in mother nature. We also saw about ten humpback whales through out the trip, which was just spectacular. When we were on our way to the island we saw hundreds of dolphins swimming through the sea. Then unexpectedly, a sea lion came out of nowhere and began to copy the dolphins! It was hysterical. Obviously the poor sea lion wasn’t as graceful nor as fast as the rest of his/her dolphin friends, but it was just precious to see this sea lion try to become one with the dolphins and he/she loved the attention that we gave him! Of course the most memorable moment of the trip was when the humpback whale was so close to us that when he opened his mouth, we could smell his or her breath! It was gross, but also quite amazing at the same time. I found myself collaborating with the plants and nature when we went on our hikes just as much as I collaborated with the non-humans of the island. I took some beautiful photo’s of the dolphins, humpback whales, interesting spiders and luckily a small, slightly blurry photo of a bald eagle right before we left the island on Monday. I did see quite a lot of foxes, but never was around my camera to capture the moment. But sometimes I think it is more important to just enjoy the moment while it lasts instead of stressing to find a camera to capture the image. Overall, it was an amazing trip. Spotting thousands of dolphins, nearly ten humpback whales, interesting spiders, little cute foxes (who steal socks) and last but not least a bald eagle! It was a great experience and I cannot wait to go back and visit all of my nonhuman friends ☺
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Santa Cruz Island
By Danusia Young (05/26/10 20:13:10)
Related animals: Dragonfly, Fox
Our trip to Santa Cruz Island was a lot of fun. Seeing so many dolphins and whales was something that I will never forget. I went before on the whale watching excursions but I never had luck to see them or interact with them. Seeing them swimming freely was something unforgettable. I completely agree with Tony when she sad that ocean is their home but only our playground. We have to respect that and learn how to interact with them with out taking over their space as we did too many species. The first day on the island was even more exiting; we did see the island foxes. They came very close that was very amazing though we were new humans in their territory. I also tried to collaborate with a beautiful orange dragonfly that was drinking water from one of the pools. After few attempts I was able to sit very close and relax next to my new friend. I felt as the dragonfly was watching me very closely and after looking closely at one of my images I saw his head or rather its big eyes looking in my direction. Maybe we did develop connection during our brake time. I think that we all have to learn how to share our space with other species. I also took the time that we had on the island to sketch and meditate.
[Write Comment]
By Danusia Young (05/26/10 20:13:10)
Related animals: Dragonfly, Fox
Our trip to Santa Cruz Island was a lot of fun. Seeing so many dolphins and whales was something that I will never forget. I went before on the whale watching excursions but I never had luck to see them or interact with them. Seeing them swimming freely was something unforgettable. I completely agree with Tony when she sad that ocean is their home but only our playground. We have to respect that and learn how to interact with them with out taking over their space as we did too many species. The first day on the island was even more exiting; we did see the island foxes. They came very close that was very amazing though we were new humans in their territory. I also tried to collaborate with a beautiful orange dragonfly that was drinking water from one of the pools. After few attempts I was able to sit very close and relax next to my new friend. I felt as the dragonfly was watching me very closely and after looking closely at one of my images I saw his head or rather its big eyes looking in my direction. Maybe we did develop connection during our brake time. I think that we all have to learn how to share our space with other species. I also took the time that we had on the island to sketch and meditate.
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Reflection: Other Related Research
Santa Cruz Island
By Tanasa Slovin (06/08/10 19:59:37)
The weekend spent in Santa Cruz Island was wonderful! We were very lucky to have seen a diverse and wide variety of beautiful animals. Just as we left Ventura, we saw a pod of dolphins consisting of about 100-300! It was the first time that I had ever seen a wild dolphin and words cannot explain the feeling of witnessing something so beautiful in mother nature. We also saw about ten humpback whales through out the trip, which was just spectacular. When we were on our way to the island we saw hundreds of dolphins swimming through the sea. Then unexpectedly, a sea lion came out of nowhere and began to copy the dolphins! It was hysterical. Obviously the poor sea lion wasn’t as graceful nor as fast as the rest of his/her dolphin friends, but it was just precious to see this sea lion try to become one with the dolphins and he/she loved the attention that we gave him! Of course the most memorable moment of the trip was when the humpback whale was so close to us that when he opened his mouth, we could smell his or her breath! It was gross, but also quite amazing at the same time. I found myself collaborating with the plants and nature when we went on our hikes just as much as I collaborated with the non-humans of the island. I took some beautiful photo’s of the dolphins, humpback whales, interesting spiders and luckily a small, slightly blurry photo of a bald eagle right before we left the island on Monday. I did see quite a lot of foxes, but never was around my camera to capture the moment. But sometimes I think it is more important to just enjoy the moment while it lasts instead of stressing to find a camera to capture the image. Overall, it was an amazing trip. Spotting thousands of dolphins, nearly ten humpback whales, interesting spiders, little cute foxes (who steal socks) and last but not least a bald eagle! It was a great experience and I cannot wait to go back and visit all of my nonhuman friends ☺
[Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (06/08/10 19:59:37)
The weekend spent in Santa Cruz Island was wonderful! We were very lucky to have seen a diverse and wide variety of beautiful animals. Just as we left Ventura, we saw a pod of dolphins consisting of about 100-300! It was the first time that I had ever seen a wild dolphin and words cannot explain the feeling of witnessing something so beautiful in mother nature. We also saw about ten humpback whales through out the trip, which was just spectacular. When we were on our way to the island we saw hundreds of dolphins swimming through the sea. Then unexpectedly, a sea lion came out of nowhere and began to copy the dolphins! It was hysterical. Obviously the poor sea lion wasn’t as graceful nor as fast as the rest of his/her dolphin friends, but it was just precious to see this sea lion try to become one with the dolphins and he/she loved the attention that we gave him! Of course the most memorable moment of the trip was when the humpback whale was so close to us that when he opened his mouth, we could smell his or her breath! It was gross, but also quite amazing at the same time. I found myself collaborating with the plants and nature when we went on our hikes just as much as I collaborated with the non-humans of the island. I took some beautiful photo’s of the dolphins, humpback whales, interesting spiders and luckily a small, slightly blurry photo of a bald eagle right before we left the island on Monday. I did see quite a lot of foxes, but never was around my camera to capture the moment. But sometimes I think it is more important to just enjoy the moment while it lasts instead of stressing to find a camera to capture the image. Overall, it was an amazing trip. Spotting thousands of dolphins, nearly ten humpback whales, interesting spiders, little cute foxes (who steal socks) and last but not least a bald eagle! It was a great experience and I cannot wait to go back and visit all of my nonhuman friends ☺
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Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Santa Cruz Island Adventure
By Serena Zahler (05/24/10 18:32:22)
Related animals: Anemone, Bald Eagle, Butterfly, Crab, Dolphin, Fish, Fox, Hermit Crab, Humpback Whale, Scrub Jay, Seal, Whale
The class trip was truly an inspiring experience in which I not only learned about the life on the island, but also about my place within that environment which extends to my place in my ecosystem. On the trip I was mesmerized by the lush beauty of the Island itself as well as the animals that call it home. I sun bathed with a firefly, wanted to dress up the cute little foxes, smelled the island skunk, and more. The most eye opening experience for me was when I stayed behind at the beach on Saturday with some of my fellow classmates and professor and began looking in the tide pools around the cliff/rock face. There I found a peaceful anemone being bothered by millions of hermit crabs. As I began to search around the rocks for seashells (one of my favorite beach activities), I found myself startled and scared of the crabs that call this place home. I would lift up a rock determined to find the perfect shell. Instead I found crabs running for safety and I would scream in fear, which turned into excitement. Lisa and my classmates thought it was ridiculously funny that I was screaming at these little harmless creatures, while destroying their rock home. Back at camp, I thought about my day at the cliffs and how ridiculous my elephant and mouse routine was. But my reactions to this experience though insane weren't that far off from my groups reactions to other animals. As we drove to the coast, we drove like something out of a Wiley Coyote cartoon speeding up to see a wild turkey that was running down the road for its life! That day in the overcast grey on the cliffs of Santa Cruz Island, I realized that I can only change my reactions to other creatures by rethinking the way I think about them.
So from now on, I will try to better gage my reactions by thinking about how the other species is feeling about my presence and what my actions will do to them. I pledge to no longer move crab rock homes and scream at them from atop. These experiences have shown me that we are only human and maybe the other species who live peacefully amongst each other with mutual respect have it right and humans just have to catch up. I think our class though a slow start is making progress towards a place where we aren't in crazed, barbaric excitement when seeing animals putting their lives at risk for our enjoyment and fascination.
[Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (05/24/10 18:32:22)
Related animals: Anemone, Bald Eagle, Butterfly, Crab, Dolphin, Fish, Fox, Hermit Crab, Humpback Whale, Scrub Jay, Seal, Whale
The class trip was truly an inspiring experience in which I not only learned about the life on the island, but also about my place within that environment which extends to my place in my ecosystem. On the trip I was mesmerized by the lush beauty of the Island itself as well as the animals that call it home. I sun bathed with a firefly, wanted to dress up the cute little foxes, smelled the island skunk, and more. The most eye opening experience for me was when I stayed behind at the beach on Saturday with some of my fellow classmates and professor and began looking in the tide pools around the cliff/rock face. There I found a peaceful anemone being bothered by millions of hermit crabs. As I began to search around the rocks for seashells (one of my favorite beach activities), I found myself startled and scared of the crabs that call this place home. I would lift up a rock determined to find the perfect shell. Instead I found crabs running for safety and I would scream in fear, which turned into excitement. Lisa and my classmates thought it was ridiculously funny that I was screaming at these little harmless creatures, while destroying their rock home. Back at camp, I thought about my day at the cliffs and how ridiculous my elephant and mouse routine was. But my reactions to this experience though insane weren't that far off from my groups reactions to other animals. As we drove to the coast, we drove like something out of a Wiley Coyote cartoon speeding up to see a wild turkey that was running down the road for its life! That day in the overcast grey on the cliffs of Santa Cruz Island, I realized that I can only change my reactions to other creatures by rethinking the way I think about them.
So from now on, I will try to better gage my reactions by thinking about how the other species is feeling about my presence and what my actions will do to them. I pledge to no longer move crab rock homes and scream at them from atop. These experiences have shown me that we are only human and maybe the other species who live peacefully amongst each other with mutual respect have it right and humans just have to catch up. I think our class though a slow start is making progress towards a place where we aren't in crazed, barbaric excitement when seeing animals putting their lives at risk for our enjoyment and fascination.
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Santa Cruz Island Day 1
By Danielle Terhune (06/01/10 10:43:35)
Related animals: Dolphin, Dragonfly, Fox, Frog, Lizard, Sea Lion, Seal, Tadpole, Whale
Santa Cruz Island Day 2
Sunday, May 16 2010
A Recollection of Day 1
Within minutes of our ferry leaving the harbor we were surround by groups of dolphins! It was one of the most exciting things that I have ever witnessed. It seemed like they all appeared out of nowhere from all sides. They were riding the wake! They were circling the boat, swimming underneath it, and swimming in front of it!
The best part of the whole dolphin experience was when they were jumping across the water past the front of the boat then all of a sudden a sea lion goes leaping through the air with the dolphins. And it kept going and jumping along with the dolphins mimicking and chasing them. I remember Tanasa, Lisa, and I were laughing so hard because it was so amazing and funny to see a sea lion enjoying the same entertainments as the dolphins.
After we left the dolphins and continued our way to Santa Cruz Island it took almost our whole trip before we saw anything else. After the first stop at the Scorpion dock some crazy sight seeing happened. First we saw way more sea lions and then dolphins and then smidgens of a smallish humpback whale. Then the whale disappeared by the dolphins came closer to check our boat.
There was a cute little two year old boy out on the deck in his mom’s arms who wasn’t satisfied with the dolphins at all. He demanded to see the whale, over and over again. All of a sudden a giant humpback whale appeared in the distance spouting up water and splashing its tail. The boy got super excited and it was adorable. Then, according to the boat driver, the whale did something unprecedented, it came up over and over again to the surface when normally it’s supposed to come up for air every fifteen minutes or so. You could hear the awe and excitement in the driver’s voice each time the whale surfaced again. I knew by that indicator that we were witnessing something special.
I’m wondering why we were so lucky to spot this whale and its abnormal behavior. I think back in class when we had Toni lecturing about the dolphins and Nora mentioned that she felt this overwhelming sadness and cried when she was little after doing a ‘swim with the dolphins’ experience. Then I believe someone else mentioned that after seeing a whole in captivity as a small child they too cried. I’m wondering if that little boy on the boat calling for the whale had some sort of impact on the whale’s decision to resurface an unprecedented amount of times.
Later in the day our whole group, or most of us set off to the swimming hole. It was a good mile of so hike down the road, and trough a dried up rocky river bed. There were sporadic patches of algae-rich puddles and ponds before we reached the swimming hole. In these scummy spots were tadpoles. They were so big too. Some had little legs along with their eel like tale. They were pretty cute. There were a lot of tadpoles in our swimming hole as well. The water was super cold, but did not keep the majority of us, including myself from jumping right in.
The best part of the swimming hole was watching the orangey red dragon flies fly around, and eyeing the sunbathing lizards. Lying out on the rocks with the lizards made me feel like we were enjoying one of God’s great gifts of sunbathing. It felt so good and refreshing.
Later in the night between dinner and s’mores Matt and I went outside in search of marshmallow roasting sticks. I bent down to grab a prospective stick and something caught my eye about five feet away. It was the tiniest little fox, the Santa Cruz Island Fox. Apparently it is the second smallest fox in the world. Matt pointed out one in the field below. This fox seemed much larger, like average fox size, but Lisa assured me it was impossible to see a fox that big on the island because there is only one species here. I’m still not sure. That fox was pretty big. I am so happy that I got to see it.
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (06/01/10 10:43:35)
Related animals: Dolphin, Dragonfly, Fox, Frog, Lizard, Sea Lion, Seal, Tadpole, Whale
Santa Cruz Island Day 2
Sunday, May 16 2010
A Recollection of Day 1
Within minutes of our ferry leaving the harbor we were surround by groups of dolphins! It was one of the most exciting things that I have ever witnessed. It seemed like they all appeared out of nowhere from all sides. They were riding the wake! They were circling the boat, swimming underneath it, and swimming in front of it!
The best part of the whole dolphin experience was when they were jumping across the water past the front of the boat then all of a sudden a sea lion goes leaping through the air with the dolphins. And it kept going and jumping along with the dolphins mimicking and chasing them. I remember Tanasa, Lisa, and I were laughing so hard because it was so amazing and funny to see a sea lion enjoying the same entertainments as the dolphins.
After we left the dolphins and continued our way to Santa Cruz Island it took almost our whole trip before we saw anything else. After the first stop at the Scorpion dock some crazy sight seeing happened. First we saw way more sea lions and then dolphins and then smidgens of a smallish humpback whale. Then the whale disappeared by the dolphins came closer to check our boat.
There was a cute little two year old boy out on the deck in his mom’s arms who wasn’t satisfied with the dolphins at all. He demanded to see the whale, over and over again. All of a sudden a giant humpback whale appeared in the distance spouting up water and splashing its tail. The boy got super excited and it was adorable. Then, according to the boat driver, the whale did something unprecedented, it came up over and over again to the surface when normally it’s supposed to come up for air every fifteen minutes or so. You could hear the awe and excitement in the driver’s voice each time the whale surfaced again. I knew by that indicator that we were witnessing something special.
I’m wondering why we were so lucky to spot this whale and its abnormal behavior. I think back in class when we had Toni lecturing about the dolphins and Nora mentioned that she felt this overwhelming sadness and cried when she was little after doing a ‘swim with the dolphins’ experience. Then I believe someone else mentioned that after seeing a whole in captivity as a small child they too cried. I’m wondering if that little boy on the boat calling for the whale had some sort of impact on the whale’s decision to resurface an unprecedented amount of times.
Later in the day our whole group, or most of us set off to the swimming hole. It was a good mile of so hike down the road, and trough a dried up rocky river bed. There were sporadic patches of algae-rich puddles and ponds before we reached the swimming hole. In these scummy spots were tadpoles. They were so big too. Some had little legs along with their eel like tale. They were pretty cute. There were a lot of tadpoles in our swimming hole as well. The water was super cold, but did not keep the majority of us, including myself from jumping right in.
The best part of the swimming hole was watching the orangey red dragon flies fly around, and eyeing the sunbathing lizards. Lying out on the rocks with the lizards made me feel like we were enjoying one of God’s great gifts of sunbathing. It felt so good and refreshing.
Later in the night between dinner and s’mores Matt and I went outside in search of marshmallow roasting sticks. I bent down to grab a prospective stick and something caught my eye about five feet away. It was the tiniest little fox, the Santa Cruz Island Fox. Apparently it is the second smallest fox in the world. Matt pointed out one in the field below. This fox seemed much larger, like average fox size, but Lisa assured me it was impossible to see a fox that big on the island because there is only one species here. I’m still not sure. That fox was pretty big. I am so happy that I got to see it.
[Write Comment]
Santa Cruz Island Day 2
By Danielle Terhune (06/01/10 11:13:39)
Related animals: Fish, Sea Lion, Seal, Star Fish, Tree, Turkey
Santa Cruz Island Day 3
Monday, May 17 2010
A Recollection of Day 2
The day started off with a trip to the far side of the island, to one of its cliffy beachside spots. We all crammed into Moe, our old beat up truck for the day, and took off down the windy roads of Santa Cruz Island.
On our way there we saw what seemed to be a road runner, but it seemed a bit fat. We slowly chased it in the truck and it stayed on the road, running for awhile, and then took up along the hillside. We were later told it might have been an island turkey. Later on, on our walk back from the seaside to our camp the truck same up on me, Royce, Tanasa, and Danusia and we ran from the truck mimicking the bird we saw earlier. It was super fun but seemed like we could have definitely freaked out the bird earlier.
At the beachside of the island we saw some sea urchins, starfish, and other tide pool creatures. We also saw the head of a seal checking out all of the commotion.
Later that night almost all of us saw the foxes again. They are always so cute!
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (06/01/10 11:13:39)
Related animals: Fish, Sea Lion, Seal, Star Fish, Tree, Turkey
Santa Cruz Island Day 3
Monday, May 17 2010
A Recollection of Day 2
The day started off with a trip to the far side of the island, to one of its cliffy beachside spots. We all crammed into Moe, our old beat up truck for the day, and took off down the windy roads of Santa Cruz Island.
On our way there we saw what seemed to be a road runner, but it seemed a bit fat. We slowly chased it in the truck and it stayed on the road, running for awhile, and then took up along the hillside. We were later told it might have been an island turkey. Later on, on our walk back from the seaside to our camp the truck same up on me, Royce, Tanasa, and Danusia and we ran from the truck mimicking the bird we saw earlier. It was super fun but seemed like we could have definitely freaked out the bird earlier.
At the beachside of the island we saw some sea urchins, starfish, and other tide pool creatures. We also saw the head of a seal checking out all of the commotion.
Later that night almost all of us saw the foxes again. They are always so cute!
[Write Comment]
Santa Cruz Island Day 3
By Danielle Terhune (06/01/10 12:15:35)
Related animals: Bald Eagle, Crow, Dolphin, Whale
Post Santa Cruz Island
Tuesday, May 18 2010
A Recollection of Day 3
We packed up and cleaned up camp pretty fast. We took off to the dock early and decided to go on a hike. The supposedly mild hike contained lots of ups and downs, rocks, grass fields, roots etc. I believe it was three miles one way, so six in all. Man! I am sore.
On the hike we saw crows and smelled the spotted skunks, but that was it. At the destination we ended at rocky caves and cove area. At this place there were some of the orange fish and more sea stars. On our way back we could see whales from the cliffs.
Back at the dock after the exhausting hike we saw a bald eagle fly across the bay and perch on a faraway branch. We were only able to see it through binoculars. There were very cute seals in the bay as well.
On the boat trip back we came upon more humpback whales. This time they were so close to the boat we were able to smell their stench. Within 7 feet or so of the boat we were able to see its gigantic mouth open towards the boat. It was breathtaking! And very very smelly! More dolphins cam as well. It was fabulous! And a great wrap up for the trip.
[Write Comment]
By Danielle Terhune (06/01/10 12:15:35)
Related animals: Bald Eagle, Crow, Dolphin, Whale
Post Santa Cruz Island
Tuesday, May 18 2010
A Recollection of Day 3
We packed up and cleaned up camp pretty fast. We took off to the dock early and decided to go on a hike. The supposedly mild hike contained lots of ups and downs, rocks, grass fields, roots etc. I believe it was three miles one way, so six in all. Man! I am sore.
On the hike we saw crows and smelled the spotted skunks, but that was it. At the destination we ended at rocky caves and cove area. At this place there were some of the orange fish and more sea stars. On our way back we could see whales from the cliffs.
Back at the dock after the exhausting hike we saw a bald eagle fly across the bay and perch on a faraway branch. We were only able to see it through binoculars. There were very cute seals in the bay as well.
On the boat trip back we came upon more humpback whales. This time they were so close to the boat we were able to smell their stench. Within 7 feet or so of the boat we were able to see its gigantic mouth open towards the boat. It was breathtaking! And very very smelly! More dolphins cam as well. It was fabulous! And a great wrap up for the trip.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Other Related Research
Santa Cruz Island Expierence
By Travis Jepson (06/08/10 01:14:10)
Being truly alone in nature is a very rare experience. Especially today we can see that our civilization is rapidly impacting our environment, though nature is responding it can prove difficult to come across areas where we cannot see the influence of mankind.
I loved being to experience pure(er) air, sheer silence except what could be heard in the sounds of the surrounding natural environment. I loved the feeling of being truly alone if I chose to be. Going places that no one had been in hundreds of years was perhaps my most exciting aspect. Though I know that the island had been used in years past, some of the trails we took way up into the mountains, or far along the cost line had a feeling of being undiscovered.
For me it was not necessarily seeking out "wild" animals to interact with, but trying to picture myself in an environment outside of civilization. I have no illusions that I was living rigidly as our main camp had full facilities and modern conveniences. It was nice to be able to just be able to walk away and within 20 minutes you could not hear a man made sound. It was a peaceful feeling. What made the feeling of isolation so pleasant would have to have been the fact that we had absolutely nothing to worry about as far as predators were concerned. The closest thing to a threat on that island was a 6lb fox that was extremely playful.
Overall I loved going to Santa Cruz island and enjoyed the long trek up the series of waterfalls the most. It was great to be able to explore and have a completely new set of surroundings. I would love to go again.
[Write Comment]
By Travis Jepson (06/08/10 01:14:10)
Being truly alone in nature is a very rare experience. Especially today we can see that our civilization is rapidly impacting our environment, though nature is responding it can prove difficult to come across areas where we cannot see the influence of mankind.
I loved being to experience pure(er) air, sheer silence except what could be heard in the sounds of the surrounding natural environment. I loved the feeling of being truly alone if I chose to be. Going places that no one had been in hundreds of years was perhaps my most exciting aspect. Though I know that the island had been used in years past, some of the trails we took way up into the mountains, or far along the cost line had a feeling of being undiscovered.
For me it was not necessarily seeking out "wild" animals to interact with, but trying to picture myself in an environment outside of civilization. I have no illusions that I was living rigidly as our main camp had full facilities and modern conveniences. It was nice to be able to just be able to walk away and within 20 minutes you could not hear a man made sound. It was a peaceful feeling. What made the feeling of isolation so pleasant would have to have been the fact that we had absolutely nothing to worry about as far as predators were concerned. The closest thing to a threat on that island was a 6lb fox that was extremely playful.
Overall I loved going to Santa Cruz island and enjoyed the long trek up the series of waterfalls the most. It was great to be able to explore and have a completely new set of surroundings. I would love to go again.
Santa Cruz Island Trip Reflections
By Marissa Gravett (06/07/13 23:52:57)
Related animals: Island Fox, Nudibranch, Scrub Jay
We went on a field trip to the Santa Cruz Island a few weekends ago, and I have to say it was one of my favorite weekends of the year. I had always wanted to visit the islands, but I never got to organizing a trip with my friends. It was such an awesome weekend. I really enjoyed being disconnected from technology so that I could better connect with nature. I also enjoyed spending quality time with my fellow classmates. I did not end up doing a project while I was there, but I did pay attention to the objects that animals left behind that symbolized their presence such as foot prints, feathers, and birds nests.
I had two exceptionally memorable experiences while on this field trip. My first was when I was coming out of the bathroom late at night and a fox came up to me. It was probably less than 2 feet away from me. I was so in shock, I didn't even move. It was the cutest thing I had ever seen. Second was when I was snorkeling. I have never been snorkeling in Santa Barbara so I was amazed at how much life there was and how great the visibility was. I saw beautiful kelp forests and awesome snails and a beautiful neon orange and blue nudibranch.
Also, seeing the Scrub Jay was very special. I saw many of their vibrant blue feathers sprinkled over the island ground.
[Write Comment]
By Marissa Gravett (06/07/13 23:52:57)
Related animals: Island Fox, Nudibranch, Scrub Jay
We went on a field trip to the Santa Cruz Island a few weekends ago, and I have to say it was one of my favorite weekends of the year. I had always wanted to visit the islands, but I never got to organizing a trip with my friends. It was such an awesome weekend. I really enjoyed being disconnected from technology so that I could better connect with nature. I also enjoyed spending quality time with my fellow classmates. I did not end up doing a project while I was there, but I did pay attention to the objects that animals left behind that symbolized their presence such as foot prints, feathers, and birds nests.
I had two exceptionally memorable experiences while on this field trip. My first was when I was coming out of the bathroom late at night and a fox came up to me. It was probably less than 2 feet away from me. I was so in shock, I didn't even move. It was the cutest thing I had ever seen. Second was when I was snorkeling. I have never been snorkeling in Santa Barbara so I was amazed at how much life there was and how great the visibility was. I saw beautiful kelp forests and awesome snails and a beautiful neon orange and blue nudibranch.
Also, seeing the Scrub Jay was very special. I saw many of their vibrant blue feathers sprinkled over the island ground.
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Reflection: Aesthetic Expressions of Non-Human Animals
Santa Cruz Island: Whales and Dolphins and Sea Lions, Oh My!
By Sara Putman (05/19/10 19:59:08)
Related animals: Anemone, Ant, Bald Eagle, Bee, Butterfly, Crab, Crow, Dolphin, Fish, Fox, Frog, Garibaldi, Hawk, Hermit Crab, Hummingbird, Humpback Whale, Island Skunk, Ladybug, Lizard, Mice, Mosquito, Mosquito Eater, Moth, Quail, Raven, Sea Lion, Seagull, Skunk, Spider, Star Fish, Swallow, Tadpole, Turkey
Santa Cruz Island had exceeded my expectations for wildlife viewing. I am still astonished at how many different species we saw in only three short days. The island itself was beautiful and I was amazed by how many different colors were present throughout the island. There was so much to look at and even more to tell about the island. I was constantly overwhelmed by the visual beauty as well as the abundance of different sounds, smells, textures and even flavors. In other words, just being on the island made me more in tune with and aware of my five senses.
Highlights:
Sight- I took over 300 photos on this trip, and even though the pictures captured what I wanted, they still don't fully do the island visual justice. I've never seen as much marine life in one weekend, or in one day, as on and around the island. We encountered lots of humpback whales, common dolphins and sea lions, as well as, island foxes, mice, quail, wild turkey, Garibaldi(our state fish), swallows, tad poles, frogs, dragon flies, butterflies, sea stars, sea urchins, sea anemones, crabs, Scrub Jays, hawks, and one Bald Eagle, just to name a few... Just looking at the scenic landscape (rocks, plants, flowers, was intensely colorful and full of life I've never experienced before. Since a lot of the species on the island only exist on the island and no where else in the world, I could tell just by looking at the wildlife (plants, animals, rocks, etc.) that I had not seen them in my life before.
Hearing- The humpback whales' blow holes definitely made noise and we were able to hear them from a good distance away (while hiking on the island). There were many sounds that came from animals that we never saw, like the spotted skunks. The scrub jays (blue colored birds), crows, and ravens made tons of noise, especially the loud cawing of the huge ravens.
Taste- I did some research on one of the plants on the island, called Rhus integrifolia or more commonly known as the Lemonade Berry plant. This plant's berries can be used to make lemonade, yet this plant is related to poison oak so it can be irritating to some people. "Many plants within this genus are considered toxic, although some reports indicate the berries of this species can be used to make lemonade flavored drinks (hence its common name)." Before I knew that this plant may be potentially toxic, I sucked on one of its berries, only to find that its lemon flavor was intense yet quite good, and luckily, I never developed an allergic reaction to the plant. However, I felt some tingling in my mouth for a while after sucking on the berries, yet I'm sure it was mostly psychological.
Smell- Wild fennel was abundant on the island, and the smell resembles anise or black licorice. Just about everywhere we went, the fennel was present, hence it was one of the smells that I remember most.
Skunk smell was also prevalent on the island, yet we never saw any spotted skunks.
I also intensely remember the smell of the humpback whale's breath as it surfaced for food. At first, I hadn't realized that marine animals would have bad breath and thought it was one of the persons around me, yet this trip definitely proves me wrong.
Touch- The terrain was mostly rough and had jagged rocks that were definitely rough on our feet and hands. The water was extremely cold, yet some of us ended up swimming in a watering hole a couple miles from where we were staying. I remember that a lot of the leaves and flowers felt like velvet, and almost seemed to call out to me to touch them.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Putman (05/19/10 19:59:08)
Related animals: Anemone, Ant, Bald Eagle, Bee, Butterfly, Crab, Crow, Dolphin, Fish, Fox, Frog, Garibaldi, Hawk, Hermit Crab, Hummingbird, Humpback Whale, Island Skunk, Ladybug, Lizard, Mice, Mosquito, Mosquito Eater, Moth, Quail, Raven, Sea Lion, Seagull, Skunk, Spider, Star Fish, Swallow, Tadpole, Turkey
Santa Cruz Island had exceeded my expectations for wildlife viewing. I am still astonished at how many different species we saw in only three short days. The island itself was beautiful and I was amazed by how many different colors were present throughout the island. There was so much to look at and even more to tell about the island. I was constantly overwhelmed by the visual beauty as well as the abundance of different sounds, smells, textures and even flavors. In other words, just being on the island made me more in tune with and aware of my five senses.
Highlights:
Sight- I took over 300 photos on this trip, and even though the pictures captured what I wanted, they still don't fully do the island visual justice. I've never seen as much marine life in one weekend, or in one day, as on and around the island. We encountered lots of humpback whales, common dolphins and sea lions, as well as, island foxes, mice, quail, wild turkey, Garibaldi(our state fish), swallows, tad poles, frogs, dragon flies, butterflies, sea stars, sea urchins, sea anemones, crabs, Scrub Jays, hawks, and one Bald Eagle, just to name a few... Just looking at the scenic landscape (rocks, plants, flowers, was intensely colorful and full of life I've never experienced before. Since a lot of the species on the island only exist on the island and no where else in the world, I could tell just by looking at the wildlife (plants, animals, rocks, etc.) that I had not seen them in my life before.
Hearing- The humpback whales' blow holes definitely made noise and we were able to hear them from a good distance away (while hiking on the island). There were many sounds that came from animals that we never saw, like the spotted skunks. The scrub jays (blue colored birds), crows, and ravens made tons of noise, especially the loud cawing of the huge ravens.
Taste- I did some research on one of the plants on the island, called Rhus integrifolia or more commonly known as the Lemonade Berry plant. This plant's berries can be used to make lemonade, yet this plant is related to poison oak so it can be irritating to some people. "Many plants within this genus are considered toxic, although some reports indicate the berries of this species can be used to make lemonade flavored drinks (hence its common name)." Before I knew that this plant may be potentially toxic, I sucked on one of its berries, only to find that its lemon flavor was intense yet quite good, and luckily, I never developed an allergic reaction to the plant. However, I felt some tingling in my mouth for a while after sucking on the berries, yet I'm sure it was mostly psychological.
Smell- Wild fennel was abundant on the island, and the smell resembles anise or black licorice. Just about everywhere we went, the fennel was present, hence it was one of the smells that I remember most.
Skunk smell was also prevalent on the island, yet we never saw any spotted skunks.
I also intensely remember the smell of the humpback whale's breath as it surfaced for food. At first, I hadn't realized that marine animals would have bad breath and thought it was one of the persons around me, yet this trip definitely proves me wrong.
Touch- The terrain was mostly rough and had jagged rocks that were definitely rough on our feet and hands. The water was extremely cold, yet some of us ended up swimming in a watering hole a couple miles from where we were staying. I remember that a lot of the leaves and flowers felt like velvet, and almost seemed to call out to me to touch them.
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Story: Interspecies Communication
Santa Cruz Islands
By leona chen (05/12/09 19:35:40)
Going to Santa Cruz was a great opportunity for me to expand my location. The natural wilderness brought clarity and inspiration because the city life becomes so bland. I arrived at the campsite with high hopes of encountering many animals. Unfortunately, that was not the case. The animals there were scarce and had to locate. I was not lucky enough to see any mammals besides birds and 2 humpback whales during the boat ride there. On the campsite, I ventured onto different parts of the island and took advantage of taking as many nature hikes as possible. I was shocked by the size of the island, which seemed so small on a map. This place was immense and I knew there had to be animals but they would be harder to find. During my observations, I have found many reptiles such as various lizards. I have also encountered these unique small frogs near the watering hole where they were hatched in eggs. I knew there would frogs because the water had many tadpoles. It was strange because the frogs and the lizards were very relaxed which allowed me to get very close to them and sometimes even touch them. The insects were very diverse; I saw many weird looking bugs that I have not seen here in SB. There were fox droppings but no fox, which was tormenting because of the fox's infamous reputation of being cute. The equipment that I have brought with me was a vintage canon camera, along with a digital compact Sony camera. I brought two cameras because they both serve two purposes in my research and creative process. The Canon camera would be aesthetic documentation while the Sony camera would be scientific documentation. I have decided that I would use my film camera to present my art and the digital camera to show observations. So far, I have many good pictures to show my progress and experience.
[Write Comment]
By leona chen (05/12/09 19:35:40)
Going to Santa Cruz was a great opportunity for me to expand my location. The natural wilderness brought clarity and inspiration because the city life becomes so bland. I arrived at the campsite with high hopes of encountering many animals. Unfortunately, that was not the case. The animals there were scarce and had to locate. I was not lucky enough to see any mammals besides birds and 2 humpback whales during the boat ride there. On the campsite, I ventured onto different parts of the island and took advantage of taking as many nature hikes as possible. I was shocked by the size of the island, which seemed so small on a map. This place was immense and I knew there had to be animals but they would be harder to find. During my observations, I have found many reptiles such as various lizards. I have also encountered these unique small frogs near the watering hole where they were hatched in eggs. I knew there would frogs because the water had many tadpoles. It was strange because the frogs and the lizards were very relaxed which allowed me to get very close to them and sometimes even touch them. The insects were very diverse; I saw many weird looking bugs that I have not seen here in SB. There were fox droppings but no fox, which was tormenting because of the fox's infamous reputation of being cute. The equipment that I have brought with me was a vintage canon camera, along with a digital compact Sony camera. I brought two cameras because they both serve two purposes in my research and creative process. The Canon camera would be aesthetic documentation while the Sony camera would be scientific documentation. I have decided that I would use my film camera to present my art and the digital camera to show observations. So far, I have many good pictures to show my progress and experience.
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Story: Animal Play Behavior
Santa Ynez Mud Swallows
By Jeff Marsch (05/12/09 15:08:12)
Related animal: Swallow
Sitting in the Santa Ynez river for two minutes brought a flock of over one hundred cliff nesting birds to my attention. I found two things about the birds to be immediately interesting: first, their feeding cycles and relationship with their roost, and second the way in which they moved cooperatively though air in roughly the same way as small fish do in water. The birds we saw (which I believe were mud swallows) had made a roost near the base of a cliff in a shady part of the river in the form of dozens of hemispherical mud shells, which were affixed directly to the cliff-face with openings at the tops. Every five minutes or so the birds would leave their nests in unison to swarm out over the river in what appeared to be an insect hunt, only to return after brief stint of hunting. This process seemed to repeat endlessly throughout the time we were there, with the birds spending roughly the same time in flight as in rest beneath the cliff, which gave me the notion that the birds were sort of living a cyclical life at dozens of times the rate of our own based on instinctual clockwork. This was the first evidence of an invisible boundary resulting from biological capacity; the second was what seemed to dictate the movement of the pack when in flight on the hunt. I found the way in which the shape of the collection of individual birds moved in unison to be very interesting aesthetically; they all appeared to be bound by an invisible elasticity that mirrored that of pliable rubber. This appeared to be the result of near instantaneous reflex and perfect motion control within the medium of air. Through this it seems that it is possible for there to exist instantaneous communication among a group of individuals based on shared instinct. Could humans be trained/evolved to depend solely on reflex? Or are we as a species defined by our cognitive intellect?
[Write Comment]
By Jeff Marsch (05/12/09 15:08:12)
Related animal: Swallow
Sitting in the Santa Ynez river for two minutes brought a flock of over one hundred cliff nesting birds to my attention. I found two things about the birds to be immediately interesting: first, their feeding cycles and relationship with their roost, and second the way in which they moved cooperatively though air in roughly the same way as small fish do in water. The birds we saw (which I believe were mud swallows) had made a roost near the base of a cliff in a shady part of the river in the form of dozens of hemispherical mud shells, which were affixed directly to the cliff-face with openings at the tops. Every five minutes or so the birds would leave their nests in unison to swarm out over the river in what appeared to be an insect hunt, only to return after brief stint of hunting. This process seemed to repeat endlessly throughout the time we were there, with the birds spending roughly the same time in flight as in rest beneath the cliff, which gave me the notion that the birds were sort of living a cyclical life at dozens of times the rate of our own based on instinctual clockwork. This was the first evidence of an invisible boundary resulting from biological capacity; the second was what seemed to dictate the movement of the pack when in flight on the hunt. I found the way in which the shape of the collection of individual birds moved in unison to be very interesting aesthetically; they all appeared to be bound by an invisible elasticity that mirrored that of pliable rubber. This appeared to be the result of near instantaneous reflex and perfect motion control within the medium of air. Through this it seems that it is possible for there to exist instantaneous communication among a group of individuals based on shared instinct. Could humans be trained/evolved to depend solely on reflex? Or are we as a species defined by our cognitive intellect?
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Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Saving Luna
By Tessa Tapscott (05/13/13 22:30:10)
Related animals: Human, Orca
While the end of the documentary, Saving Luna, is heart-wrenchingly sad, one must look at the film and his life as a whole and try to extract the message the “little orphan whale” has taught us. The way Luna sought people out as companions is unusual for orcas, thus the established boundary between humans and whales was broken, and I think this worried quite a few people. It is true that such interaction with such a large and unpredictable creature could lead to endangerment of both whale and human lives, but I agree with the director in believing that trying to ignore the whale was not the right choice.
I think it is some what speciesist to assume that Luna would respond like all other whales simply because he was an orca. Are humans the only ones with widely varying personalities? Certainly many humans respond to situations in similar ways, but there are many cases of people, perhaps with psychological disorders, that cannot simply be lumped into and treated like everyone else. As the film stated, orcas are extremely social animals with highly developed senses of kinship and emotion, who is to say that Luna did not have some sort of psychological issue, either from being left alone at such an early age or from even earlier in his childhood? If a human were acting strangely, in a way that was counter to general demeanor, they would treated as an individual and helped as such. Yet when Luna acted differently many still tried to treat him like a normal whale, for whom human interaction would be a bad thing. This film, however, proved that this was not the right response, Luna needed the attention from humans because he would not have any other interaction. What did they expect to happen? For him to just swim around by himself ignoring the life above? Of course Luna got into trouble when he was ignored, he had no one else! It would be similar to a foreigner going to a town with hopes of interacting with a new culture as friends, but then being shunned for no apparent reason, even though at first everyone in town liked the foreigner. While regular whale interaction would have probably been much better for Luna’s psychological growth, the Nootka Sound was not equipped to offer that, so the next best thing were its humans. People have proven to be successful friends and guardians of many other creatures, where is line drawn between wild animal and companion animal?
I believe that in cases like these it is important for people to regard the animal with respect for its species, but also as an individual, who cannot and should be simply lumped into a category and dealt with based on statistics. I hope that Luna’s short life left an impression of all of those involved with him throughout his time spent in the sound. Luna’s life will stand as a reminder that humans can break the barrier between themselves and other animals, that we can help them just by regarding them as an equal and that interaction with them will help us to become more open minded, compassionate and intelligent beings.
[Write Comment]
By Tessa Tapscott (05/13/13 22:30:10)
Related animals: Human, Orca
While the end of the documentary, Saving Luna, is heart-wrenchingly sad, one must look at the film and his life as a whole and try to extract the message the “little orphan whale” has taught us. The way Luna sought people out as companions is unusual for orcas, thus the established boundary between humans and whales was broken, and I think this worried quite a few people. It is true that such interaction with such a large and unpredictable creature could lead to endangerment of both whale and human lives, but I agree with the director in believing that trying to ignore the whale was not the right choice.
I think it is some what speciesist to assume that Luna would respond like all other whales simply because he was an orca. Are humans the only ones with widely varying personalities? Certainly many humans respond to situations in similar ways, but there are many cases of people, perhaps with psychological disorders, that cannot simply be lumped into and treated like everyone else. As the film stated, orcas are extremely social animals with highly developed senses of kinship and emotion, who is to say that Luna did not have some sort of psychological issue, either from being left alone at such an early age or from even earlier in his childhood? If a human were acting strangely, in a way that was counter to general demeanor, they would treated as an individual and helped as such. Yet when Luna acted differently many still tried to treat him like a normal whale, for whom human interaction would be a bad thing. This film, however, proved that this was not the right response, Luna needed the attention from humans because he would not have any other interaction. What did they expect to happen? For him to just swim around by himself ignoring the life above? Of course Luna got into trouble when he was ignored, he had no one else! It would be similar to a foreigner going to a town with hopes of interacting with a new culture as friends, but then being shunned for no apparent reason, even though at first everyone in town liked the foreigner. While regular whale interaction would have probably been much better for Luna’s psychological growth, the Nootka Sound was not equipped to offer that, so the next best thing were its humans. People have proven to be successful friends and guardians of many other creatures, where is line drawn between wild animal and companion animal?
I believe that in cases like these it is important for people to regard the animal with respect for its species, but also as an individual, who cannot and should be simply lumped into a category and dealt with based on statistics. I hope that Luna’s short life left an impression of all of those involved with him throughout his time spent in the sound. Luna’s life will stand as a reminder that humans can break the barrier between themselves and other animals, that we can help them just by regarding them as an equal and that interaction with them will help us to become more open minded, compassionate and intelligent beings.
[Write Comment]
Saving Luna
By Laura Santizo (05/21/13 14:43:17)
Related animals: Orca, Whale
When watching the movie I really thought it was going to have a happy ending. There seemed to be enough people involved that they should be able to reach a creative and positive solution. Sadly, Luna didn’t make it and I can’t help but feel that the scientists and department of fisheries failed this creature horribly.
First of all, I don’t understand why they couldn’t employ someone to take care of Luna. The marine scientists that studied Orca’s knew about her social nature.Clearly all she needed was friendship, someone to play with and keep her company. Both the filmmaker and local who took the time to interact with Luna were able to keep her safe. It was only when left alone that her interactions became “dangerous.” Luna was never trying to harm anyone she was merely seeking the physical contact and companionship she needed. Instead of providing her with a consistent caretaker, they actively ignored her and discouraged human interaction which I believe only served to make her more lonely and more likely to seek to the wrong entertainment.
Secondly we rarely get to interact with such large and powerful animals, I don’t see why no one viewed this an opportunity to create a sanctuary for Luna. I think all the boats should not have been allowed to travel through this area unless they had protective cases on their motors. By simply requiring boats to take this precaution this tragedy could have been avoided. Luna could be still alive and maybe even reunited with other whales by now.
It is such a shame that these organizations couldn’t work together to preserve Luna’s life. I think this story should serve to show us that we must be more sensitive to the personalities and needs of all species. We should take it upon ourselves to live a more harmonious life and share our resources with every animal around us.
[Write Comment]
By Laura Santizo (05/21/13 14:43:17)
Related animals: Orca, Whale
When watching the movie I really thought it was going to have a happy ending. There seemed to be enough people involved that they should be able to reach a creative and positive solution. Sadly, Luna didn’t make it and I can’t help but feel that the scientists and department of fisheries failed this creature horribly.
First of all, I don’t understand why they couldn’t employ someone to take care of Luna. The marine scientists that studied Orca’s knew about her social nature.Clearly all she needed was friendship, someone to play with and keep her company. Both the filmmaker and local who took the time to interact with Luna were able to keep her safe. It was only when left alone that her interactions became “dangerous.” Luna was never trying to harm anyone she was merely seeking the physical contact and companionship she needed. Instead of providing her with a consistent caretaker, they actively ignored her and discouraged human interaction which I believe only served to make her more lonely and more likely to seek to the wrong entertainment.
Secondly we rarely get to interact with such large and powerful animals, I don’t see why no one viewed this an opportunity to create a sanctuary for Luna. I think all the boats should not have been allowed to travel through this area unless they had protective cases on their motors. By simply requiring boats to take this precaution this tragedy could have been avoided. Luna could be still alive and maybe even reunited with other whales by now.
It is such a shame that these organizations couldn’t work together to preserve Luna’s life. I think this story should serve to show us that we must be more sensitive to the personalities and needs of all species. We should take it upon ourselves to live a more harmonious life and share our resources with every animal around us.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Speciesism and Animal Rights
Saving Luna
By Hector Medina (06/04/13 11:40:55)
Related animal: Orca
Watching this movie was very sad and heartbreaking yet it was a great way to educated people. I don’t think I could be able to neglect an animal that was caving such attention. Yet I think I would be hesitant to simply put my hand out to an orca. I feel bad for it, all he wanted was a friend. After people ignored you, I wonder how he must of felt. Did he not realize he was a whale? That he was different and that humans were not a species to be friends with? It’s interesting how friendly he was, not afraid of humans. Kind of acted like a dog. I also have to wonder, he appeared after getting lost from his pod during its migration route. Then again he was use to humans; he could have easily died or killed in the wild. Well they had to swim close by sometime again, why didn’t it reunite with them? I feel bad for the girls who had to monitor him and keep people away from him. I don’t think I could do their job. How do you tell someone to not pet an animal desperate for attention? After a while my heart would hit, I would think I have a cold heart. The part in the movie when they are not even allowed to look at him, yet she cannot resist, was so sad. It must have been real tough love. The thing that stood out to me the most was the end bit. It got me thinking about the interest of the animal. I wished we could talk to him and know exactly why he was there or what he wanted. Did he have a purpose? Was he really the reincarnation of the old wise man from the tribe? For me it got too out of hand and too many people became involved. If it like people so much then why not send it to Sea World. It would of love showing off to people. I guess he was there to educate people. He was there to showcase the dos and don’ts when interacting with an animal and to what extent. In the end I’m glad that it was just a movie and not up to us to figure out the future of this orca.
[Write Comment]
By Hector Medina (06/04/13 11:40:55)
Related animal: Orca
Watching this movie was very sad and heartbreaking yet it was a great way to educated people. I don’t think I could be able to neglect an animal that was caving such attention. Yet I think I would be hesitant to simply put my hand out to an orca. I feel bad for it, all he wanted was a friend. After people ignored you, I wonder how he must of felt. Did he not realize he was a whale? That he was different and that humans were not a species to be friends with? It’s interesting how friendly he was, not afraid of humans. Kind of acted like a dog. I also have to wonder, he appeared after getting lost from his pod during its migration route. Then again he was use to humans; he could have easily died or killed in the wild. Well they had to swim close by sometime again, why didn’t it reunite with them? I feel bad for the girls who had to monitor him and keep people away from him. I don’t think I could do their job. How do you tell someone to not pet an animal desperate for attention? After a while my heart would hit, I would think I have a cold heart. The part in the movie when they are not even allowed to look at him, yet she cannot resist, was so sad. It must have been real tough love. The thing that stood out to me the most was the end bit. It got me thinking about the interest of the animal. I wished we could talk to him and know exactly why he was there or what he wanted. Did he have a purpose? Was he really the reincarnation of the old wise man from the tribe? For me it got too out of hand and too many people became involved. If it like people so much then why not send it to Sea World. It would of love showing off to people. I guess he was there to educate people. He was there to showcase the dos and don’ts when interacting with an animal and to what extent. In the end I’m glad that it was just a movie and not up to us to figure out the future of this orca.
[Write Comment]
Saving Luna
By Caitlin Gallagher (06/06/13 07:56:52)
Saving Luna was a very touching film but I was conflicted with how wild animals should be treated when they seek out contact from humans. It was amazing to watch the community come together to rescue this animal while so many others fought for him to be left alone. When the end came I was brought to tears, I couldn’t believe that they let it go that far, everyone knew it was bound to happen but they refused to let people intervene. I think that Luna is a special situation and it was not right to ask people to ignore him because it obviously didn’t work. It is very rare an animal approaches people that willingly and neglecting him did not help the situation. People were willing to be there to watch over him and keep him out of trouble but the they forced tough love. I have a deep respect for the tribe willing to risk their own life to save the orca because he was believed to be a reincarnation of the tribe leader. It’s amazing to me that they have such a profound connection with the animal and were able to lure him away in their canoes. I have to agree with the tribe’s belief that Luna was there to teach them a lesson and whether he lived or died the people would learn something. Luna’s story has moved me an many others and if anything it has given me a better understanding of how fragile the balance is be nature.
[Write Comment]
By Caitlin Gallagher (06/06/13 07:56:52)
Saving Luna was a very touching film but I was conflicted with how wild animals should be treated when they seek out contact from humans. It was amazing to watch the community come together to rescue this animal while so many others fought for him to be left alone. When the end came I was brought to tears, I couldn’t believe that they let it go that far, everyone knew it was bound to happen but they refused to let people intervene. I think that Luna is a special situation and it was not right to ask people to ignore him because it obviously didn’t work. It is very rare an animal approaches people that willingly and neglecting him did not help the situation. People were willing to be there to watch over him and keep him out of trouble but the they forced tough love. I have a deep respect for the tribe willing to risk their own life to save the orca because he was believed to be a reincarnation of the tribe leader. It’s amazing to me that they have such a profound connection with the animal and were able to lure him away in their canoes. I have to agree with the tribe’s belief that Luna was there to teach them a lesson and whether he lived or died the people would learn something. Luna’s story has moved me an many others and if anything it has given me a better understanding of how fragile the balance is be nature.
[Write Comment]
Saving Luna
By Natalie Croak (06/08/13 20:10:14)
Related animal: Orca
In class we watched "Saving Luna," the story of a baby orca who becomes separated from his pod and attempts to become friends with humans in a British Columbian port town. At first people play with Luna and let him follow their boats. After a while however the authorities decide that this much human interaction is harmful for him and they hire people to encourage boaters to stay away from Luna. Luna still continues to attempt to play with anyone who will give him attention, leading to the decision that he should be removed and taken to an aquarium. The First People believed that Luna was the reincarnation of one of their leaders so they lured Luna away from the nets with drums and wooden canoes. However at the end of the movie Luna ends up being killed by a tugboat propeller because he got too close to the boat.
This movie was incredibly depressing for me because it seems that there is no real right solution that could be found. The ideal would be for Luna to be reunited with his pod, however after the movie ended we learned that Luna's pod died of starvation a few months after his death. I am very against putting highly intelligent animals like whales and dolphins in aquariums because I believe they are smart enough to know that they are prisoners. However I agree that it wasn't the best situation to have Luna playing so close to the boats. If anything I hope that Luna's death draws attention to the problems that marine animals face and that better tactics for dealing with orphaned animals are developed.
[Write Comment]
By Natalie Croak (06/08/13 20:10:14)
Related animal: Orca
In class we watched "Saving Luna," the story of a baby orca who becomes separated from his pod and attempts to become friends with humans in a British Columbian port town. At first people play with Luna and let him follow their boats. After a while however the authorities decide that this much human interaction is harmful for him and they hire people to encourage boaters to stay away from Luna. Luna still continues to attempt to play with anyone who will give him attention, leading to the decision that he should be removed and taken to an aquarium. The First People believed that Luna was the reincarnation of one of their leaders so they lured Luna away from the nets with drums and wooden canoes. However at the end of the movie Luna ends up being killed by a tugboat propeller because he got too close to the boat.
This movie was incredibly depressing for me because it seems that there is no real right solution that could be found. The ideal would be for Luna to be reunited with his pod, however after the movie ended we learned that Luna's pod died of starvation a few months after his death. I am very against putting highly intelligent animals like whales and dolphins in aquariums because I believe they are smart enough to know that they are prisoners. However I agree that it wasn't the best situation to have Luna playing so close to the boats. If anything I hope that Luna's death draws attention to the problems that marine animals face and that better tactics for dealing with orphaned animals are developed.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Saving Luna
By Raymond Douglas (06/09/13 17:45:49)
Related animals: Human, Orca
Seeing this film was the first time I heard about Luna’s story. But, it was also the first time I started to seriously consider some of the topics and issues at play in the film. I think it is known that the reason that the film was created to be that orca whales typically don’t interact with humans in such a loving, platonic way. The people of the area embraced this new member into their community and sought to protect and enrich its life. Despite this massively supportive welcoming party of humans, the true reason for Luna being alone is overwhelmingly sad. Luna was separated from his pack and left alone to fend for himself. Yes, Luna is a large mammal capable of intense killing tactics, but he still did not have his natural support system of his blood family. His new community knew this and took to watching after him and protecting him at all costs.
Eventually, however it was thought that too much human interaction would spoil his life and eliminate any possibility of Luna assimilating back into his natural family, who was now many miles away and totally unaware of what was happening. This was, in my opinion, the most incorrect assumption anyone could make. This whale had found itself a new family. One with copious amounts of love and interest. Such affection enriched Luna’s life in ways that it could never have been enriched. He played in ways that his natural family would not. He was starting to be the center of a documentary! He also knew exactly what he wanted. When the community was ordered to ignore him at all costs and to not provoke any of his older, more playful behavior he made obvious attempts at reconnection. He would try to impress people in boats and people ashore and he would seek out those who loved him best. After a while, I think it became clear that this community was the only thing supporting Luna in his quest for happiness as an orca. He had found his natural community and wanted to thrive as much as possible. It was almost as if he knew the dangers that came with swimming near motorized boats and other water machinery. But, he kept on pushing to touch the humans and share moments with them. What started as an effort to reconnect him with his roots actually pushed him away from his roots. His new roots. He had found a place he never wanted to leave.
It is known that at the end of the documentary the prop of a boat kills Luna. People of the community grieved for his permanent disappearance. It also needs to be known, however, that what they did was the most obvious and correct answer to the presence/problem of Luna. Embrace him for he wanted to embrace in return. Any species that seeks to be part of something larger across interspecies boundaries shouldn’t always be dissuaded. A different lifestyle awaits, but one of equally opportunity and reward.
[Write Comment]
By Raymond Douglas (06/09/13 17:45:49)
Related animals: Human, Orca
Seeing this film was the first time I heard about Luna’s story. But, it was also the first time I started to seriously consider some of the topics and issues at play in the film. I think it is known that the reason that the film was created to be that orca whales typically don’t interact with humans in such a loving, platonic way. The people of the area embraced this new member into their community and sought to protect and enrich its life. Despite this massively supportive welcoming party of humans, the true reason for Luna being alone is overwhelmingly sad. Luna was separated from his pack and left alone to fend for himself. Yes, Luna is a large mammal capable of intense killing tactics, but he still did not have his natural support system of his blood family. His new community knew this and took to watching after him and protecting him at all costs.
Eventually, however it was thought that too much human interaction would spoil his life and eliminate any possibility of Luna assimilating back into his natural family, who was now many miles away and totally unaware of what was happening. This was, in my opinion, the most incorrect assumption anyone could make. This whale had found itself a new family. One with copious amounts of love and interest. Such affection enriched Luna’s life in ways that it could never have been enriched. He played in ways that his natural family would not. He was starting to be the center of a documentary! He also knew exactly what he wanted. When the community was ordered to ignore him at all costs and to not provoke any of his older, more playful behavior he made obvious attempts at reconnection. He would try to impress people in boats and people ashore and he would seek out those who loved him best. After a while, I think it became clear that this community was the only thing supporting Luna in his quest for happiness as an orca. He had found his natural community and wanted to thrive as much as possible. It was almost as if he knew the dangers that came with swimming near motorized boats and other water machinery. But, he kept on pushing to touch the humans and share moments with them. What started as an effort to reconnect him with his roots actually pushed him away from his roots. His new roots. He had found a place he never wanted to leave.
It is known that at the end of the documentary the prop of a boat kills Luna. People of the community grieved for his permanent disappearance. It also needs to be known, however, that what they did was the most obvious and correct answer to the presence/problem of Luna. Embrace him for he wanted to embrace in return. Any species that seeks to be part of something larger across interspecies boundaries shouldn’t always be dissuaded. A different lifestyle awaits, but one of equally opportunity and reward.
[Write Comment]
Saving Luna: The Incredible Story of a Whale-Human Relationship
By Katie Edwards (05/16/13 16:17:22)
Related animal: Whale
Saving Luna
Watching “Saving Luna” was incredibly moving for me. I had never heard the story before, and I think the film did a wonderful job of capturing Luna's spirit and his impact on the people around him. I can't imagine being able to interact so closely with an orca, let alone play with him and fearlessly put my hand into his mouth. His behavior was almost dog like—it was as if he had grown up not realizing that he was a whale or that there are certain expectations from humans of particular species. Comparing Luna to a domesticated dog may seem strange, but I mean it in the sense that the closeness of his relationship with humans was like that of a pet people would bring into their home and love unconditionally. He wasn't afraid of humans, and would immediately approach them with nothing but friendly intentions. I find it bizarre that he seemed to have such a demeanor all along, even before he became such a popular tourist destination. It was as if he was meant to be raised with humans. Perhaps he was filling the void of not being with his own pod, but I still find it remarkable that he would choose to remain with humans for years rather than attach himself to another orca family.
Despite being in the wild, Luna's upbringing was strongly influenced by human interaction and attention, which must've led to a lot of confusion and struggle for both Luna and his friends during the periods of “tough love” restrictions. I think it was cruel to go back and forth between giving Luna a lot of attention and then purposefully ignoring him. I understand that it would be difficult to hold your ground when faced with the decision to neglect an animal you'd grown so close to, but I feel as if the fickle nature of people's relationship with him only led to more heartbreak for everyone involved. While there was obvious danger of Luna being around so many boats and approaching people who did not ask to be approached, I think emotionally it was better for him to have human affection. It would be different if he had been ignored by people from his birth and didn't think of humans as his surrogate family, but since he went years believing people were his friends, I can only imagine how impossible it would be for him to stay away when people ignored him. It was the responsibility of the people to decide how to act around him, and I think they were inconsistent and therefore unfair.
It's difficult to decide what's in an animals best interest when there's really no way for them to explicitly communicate how they're feeling. We can make all the assumptions we want, but we're incapable of knowing exactly what the animals needs or desires. Luna certainly acted like he wanted to remain in contact with humans, but there's no saying what would have happened if the efforts to relocate him had succeeded. We don't know if he would've adapted or struggled. The whole situation was a big “what if,” and with so many people voicing their opinions about what would be best for Luna, it was impossible to come to a conclusion that would please everybody. Personally I think keeping Luna with humans was best for everyone's emotional health, but who knows what would've happened if he had been taken somewhere else or placed back with his family. When it comes to making decisions for other species, I find it hard to remove our own desires and biases and think strictly of the animal's interest.
[Write Comment]
By Katie Edwards (05/16/13 16:17:22)
Related animal: Whale
Saving Luna
Watching “Saving Luna” was incredibly moving for me. I had never heard the story before, and I think the film did a wonderful job of capturing Luna's spirit and his impact on the people around him. I can't imagine being able to interact so closely with an orca, let alone play with him and fearlessly put my hand into his mouth. His behavior was almost dog like—it was as if he had grown up not realizing that he was a whale or that there are certain expectations from humans of particular species. Comparing Luna to a domesticated dog may seem strange, but I mean it in the sense that the closeness of his relationship with humans was like that of a pet people would bring into their home and love unconditionally. He wasn't afraid of humans, and would immediately approach them with nothing but friendly intentions. I find it bizarre that he seemed to have such a demeanor all along, even before he became such a popular tourist destination. It was as if he was meant to be raised with humans. Perhaps he was filling the void of not being with his own pod, but I still find it remarkable that he would choose to remain with humans for years rather than attach himself to another orca family.
Despite being in the wild, Luna's upbringing was strongly influenced by human interaction and attention, which must've led to a lot of confusion and struggle for both Luna and his friends during the periods of “tough love” restrictions. I think it was cruel to go back and forth between giving Luna a lot of attention and then purposefully ignoring him. I understand that it would be difficult to hold your ground when faced with the decision to neglect an animal you'd grown so close to, but I feel as if the fickle nature of people's relationship with him only led to more heartbreak for everyone involved. While there was obvious danger of Luna being around so many boats and approaching people who did not ask to be approached, I think emotionally it was better for him to have human affection. It would be different if he had been ignored by people from his birth and didn't think of humans as his surrogate family, but since he went years believing people were his friends, I can only imagine how impossible it would be for him to stay away when people ignored him. It was the responsibility of the people to decide how to act around him, and I think they were inconsistent and therefore unfair.
It's difficult to decide what's in an animals best interest when there's really no way for them to explicitly communicate how they're feeling. We can make all the assumptions we want, but we're incapable of knowing exactly what the animals needs or desires. Luna certainly acted like he wanted to remain in contact with humans, but there's no saying what would have happened if the efforts to relocate him had succeeded. We don't know if he would've adapted or struggled. The whole situation was a big “what if,” and with so many people voicing their opinions about what would be best for Luna, it was impossible to come to a conclusion that would please everybody. Personally I think keeping Luna with humans was best for everyone's emotional health, but who knows what would've happened if he had been taken somewhere else or placed back with his family. When it comes to making decisions for other species, I find it hard to remove our own desires and biases and think strictly of the animal's interest.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Second Article Response
By Norah Eldredge (04/20/10 12:15:37)
Related animals: Cat, Dog
This article made me think about my own personal relationship with animals. I have a very strong opinion about animals and my interactions and relationships with them.
Ever since I was a kid, I have always felt akin with all animals. I would look at them and understand them. We are not verbally communicating, but in some way mutually acknowledging each other. My parents would take me to dinner parties or friends houses and I would automatically become great friends with the dog or cat at that house. Even animals that I briefly meet on the street. Dogs run up to me, look me straight in the eyes.
This has never been something that I have done intentionally or with any end in mind, I have always just felt that critters and I get along. They sense my peace when I am around them, they understand how much I value and admire them, or something. I truly have never thought about it until this class.
Reading this article made me think. Not so much what it had to say, but that there was so much to say! For me, this is very simple, and I guess I have always thought that people’s relationships with animals have been very simple. Either good or bad, happy or not, superior or equal. There has, as I now know, been a lot of thought about it. Does this extensive thought and analysis on the subject create distance between animals and us? A dog does not spend more that a few seconds debating his relationship with a human, but instead simply trusts his gut. Humanity creates a divide between us and other species, but will analyzing it to death close that divide or widen it? I have not decided an answer to this yet.
[Write Comment]
By Norah Eldredge (04/20/10 12:15:37)
Related animals: Cat, Dog
This article made me think about my own personal relationship with animals. I have a very strong opinion about animals and my interactions and relationships with them.
Ever since I was a kid, I have always felt akin with all animals. I would look at them and understand them. We are not verbally communicating, but in some way mutually acknowledging each other. My parents would take me to dinner parties or friends houses and I would automatically become great friends with the dog or cat at that house. Even animals that I briefly meet on the street. Dogs run up to me, look me straight in the eyes.
This has never been something that I have done intentionally or with any end in mind, I have always just felt that critters and I get along. They sense my peace when I am around them, they understand how much I value and admire them, or something. I truly have never thought about it until this class.
Reading this article made me think. Not so much what it had to say, but that there was so much to say! For me, this is very simple, and I guess I have always thought that people’s relationships with animals have been very simple. Either good or bad, happy or not, superior or equal. There has, as I now know, been a lot of thought about it. Does this extensive thought and analysis on the subject create distance between animals and us? A dog does not spend more that a few seconds debating his relationship with a human, but instead simply trusts his gut. Humanity creates a divide between us and other species, but will analyzing it to death close that divide or widen it? I have not decided an answer to this yet.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Sedgewick Reserve
By Chelsea Hunter (05/10/09 11:23:59)
Related animal: Cow
Unfortunately I felt little connection to any animals at the Sedgewick Reserve which is usually the feeling that I get when dealing with animals in the wild. Before the meditation we saw a deer so I thought about the deer and sent visuals to it hoping that when I opened my eyes it would be near me. We did see deer later on but they did not really seem interested in us. I really wanted to use the tools that we learned to communicate with the animals but It didn't seem like they were willing at the time.Everyone was really excited to about the cows and the opportunity to be able to get up close to them and touch them. Right away i got a feeling of nervousness from the cows and I felt like their instinct to eat was the only thing keeping them near us. I think if only one or two people would have gotten near them then they would have been more comfortable rather than a whole crowd of people trying to touch them at once. I felt like Patrick was really uneasy when everyone was trying to press against him, I know that it was supposed to make the cow comfortable but I felt like he was feeling trapped. Later on during the night when we finally heard the Coyotes calling to each other I felt a real sense of animal communication that I don't think I will ever really be able to a part of. It was so beautiful to hear their calls and listen to them as they communicated with each other. I really had a nice time sharing an environment with animals that live in the reserve and although there was no concrete communication I did feel closer to the animals of the wild.
[Write Comment]
By Chelsea Hunter (05/10/09 11:23:59)
Related animal: Cow
Unfortunately I felt little connection to any animals at the Sedgewick Reserve which is usually the feeling that I get when dealing with animals in the wild. Before the meditation we saw a deer so I thought about the deer and sent visuals to it hoping that when I opened my eyes it would be near me. We did see deer later on but they did not really seem interested in us. I really wanted to use the tools that we learned to communicate with the animals but It didn't seem like they were willing at the time.Everyone was really excited to about the cows and the opportunity to be able to get up close to them and touch them. Right away i got a feeling of nervousness from the cows and I felt like their instinct to eat was the only thing keeping them near us. I think if only one or two people would have gotten near them then they would have been more comfortable rather than a whole crowd of people trying to touch them at once. I felt like Patrick was really uneasy when everyone was trying to press against him, I know that it was supposed to make the cow comfortable but I felt like he was feeling trapped. Later on during the night when we finally heard the Coyotes calling to each other I felt a real sense of animal communication that I don't think I will ever really be able to a part of. It was so beautiful to hear their calls and listen to them as they communicated with each other. I really had a nice time sharing an environment with animals that live in the reserve and although there was no concrete communication I did feel closer to the animals of the wild.
[Write Comment]
Sedgewick Reserve
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 13:39:51)
Related animals: Bird, Cow, Deer
Sedgewick Reserve
The recent class trip to the Sedgewick Reserve was arguably the most successful yet in terms of interspecies collaboration. We encountered several different animals and interacted with them in varying ways. In the beginning of the trip we al hiked in a single file line up the side of a hill to a shady tree at the top. Once we got there, we were dowsed in burning sage and led in a meditation by Hannah. The meditation was quite nice and relaxing as I imagined myself floating in space towards a pink rectangle surrounded by blue. I attempted to tap into my inner shaman and become one with nature, to better facilitate my ability to interact with animals, as I had learned to do on Santa Cruz Island. As we walked back down the hill we saw a dear jumping through the grasses below. If we had stayed still longer perhaps he would have come closer to us.
Later, we attempted to collaborate with the cows that live on the reserve. We had learned from a video that cows become relaxed when pressure is applied to their sides. My classmates leaned on the cow to try and exercise this practice. The cow did not seem to like it very much though and tried to free itself from the people surrounding it by walking backwards, for a moment it looked like a four person one cow tango. We fed the cows hay as some mother cows protected their calves in the background behind a fence.
That night, we went on a night hike to see what nocturnal animals we could discover. Along the walk we came to a pond where several birds stated making noise as we passed. We stood still and listened to the animals flap their wings each time that Nathan dragged his feet across the ground. It was an official collaboration! Nathan was making ‘music’ together with the birds as we all stood and listened with amazement. We walked away from the pond with a feeling of grand accomplishment.
[Write Comment]
By Jeffrey Jacobs (05/12/09 13:39:51)
Related animals: Bird, Cow, Deer
Sedgewick Reserve
The recent class trip to the Sedgewick Reserve was arguably the most successful yet in terms of interspecies collaboration. We encountered several different animals and interacted with them in varying ways. In the beginning of the trip we al hiked in a single file line up the side of a hill to a shady tree at the top. Once we got there, we were dowsed in burning sage and led in a meditation by Hannah. The meditation was quite nice and relaxing as I imagined myself floating in space towards a pink rectangle surrounded by blue. I attempted to tap into my inner shaman and become one with nature, to better facilitate my ability to interact with animals, as I had learned to do on Santa Cruz Island. As we walked back down the hill we saw a dear jumping through the grasses below. If we had stayed still longer perhaps he would have come closer to us.
Later, we attempted to collaborate with the cows that live on the reserve. We had learned from a video that cows become relaxed when pressure is applied to their sides. My classmates leaned on the cow to try and exercise this practice. The cow did not seem to like it very much though and tried to free itself from the people surrounding it by walking backwards, for a moment it looked like a four person one cow tango. We fed the cows hay as some mother cows protected their calves in the background behind a fence.
That night, we went on a night hike to see what nocturnal animals we could discover. Along the walk we came to a pond where several birds stated making noise as we passed. We stood still and listened to the animals flap their wings each time that Nathan dragged his feet across the ground. It was an official collaboration! Nathan was making ‘music’ together with the birds as we all stood and listened with amazement. We walked away from the pond with a feeling of grand accomplishment.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Art Interspecies Collaborations
Sedgwick Reserve
By Michael Walter Lambert (05/08/09 13:56:26)
Related animal: Spider
We were to meet at Sedgwick Reserve on thursday at noon. The fires near Isla Vista to the south had my attention but off I went to Sedgwick. It was an interesting car drive mainly through the country. I arrive at Sedgwick and it is hot. We immediately eat lunch and wait for the rest of the group. Upon arrival I encounter a dog that seemingly lives there. When he saw me he immediately ran and grabbed his frisbee. I tried to play fetch but he was reluctant to let go of the frisbee. He even held it less tight so I could get it without him letting go. He was quite good at fetching the frisbee even catching it i the air. Other animals were squirrels and lizards.
When more of the group got there we decided to take a hike, a short hike but mainly up hill. We got to the top and tried a meditation exercise. We were up on the top of the hill for hours just thinking. I think we were taking in nature. The tree above us was quite incredible and I was grateful for the shade it provided. There is something nice about sharing time with a tree. There were many insects up there and some cool plants. We did hear many animals and even saw some deer. There were several deer,
We hike over the hill and back to camp. There are more human collaborators waiting for us. We chill for a second and then decide to check out the cows. Especially the male cow Patrick who had earned himself a reputation mainly just for being fat. There was three cows in all and several at a near by farm just watching us. The cows we interacted with had a strange color pattern, black with a wide white stripe covering the area between the front and back legs. We offered the cows food but still they were skittish. Eventually we got to touch and even pet the cows. We tried to lay down to ease the tension but this did not work. The cow is a large animal and these cows were very cute if not a bit fat. Eventually some of the human collaborators attempted to flamingo dance with the cow by letting the cow lead. I think Masha got it on tape.
Before going in for dinner we decided to go look at the water troff, a man made watering hole meant for the animals of this region to get a drink. There is a camera set up meant to take pictures of the different animals who drink there. The camera senses motion. The water was filthy and an unhealthy green color. We decided to go to the top of the hill and see if any animals come. It was getting dark but it was quite lovely. There were animals out, letting us know they were there through sound. We didn't see most of these animals but we did see two Owls who were hooting away. The experience had a nice spiritual feel to it.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Walter Lambert (05/08/09 13:56:26)
Related animal: Spider
We were to meet at Sedgwick Reserve on thursday at noon. The fires near Isla Vista to the south had my attention but off I went to Sedgwick. It was an interesting car drive mainly through the country. I arrive at Sedgwick and it is hot. We immediately eat lunch and wait for the rest of the group. Upon arrival I encounter a dog that seemingly lives there. When he saw me he immediately ran and grabbed his frisbee. I tried to play fetch but he was reluctant to let go of the frisbee. He even held it less tight so I could get it without him letting go. He was quite good at fetching the frisbee even catching it i the air. Other animals were squirrels and lizards.
When more of the group got there we decided to take a hike, a short hike but mainly up hill. We got to the top and tried a meditation exercise. We were up on the top of the hill for hours just thinking. I think we were taking in nature. The tree above us was quite incredible and I was grateful for the shade it provided. There is something nice about sharing time with a tree. There were many insects up there and some cool plants. We did hear many animals and even saw some deer. There were several deer,
We hike over the hill and back to camp. There are more human collaborators waiting for us. We chill for a second and then decide to check out the cows. Especially the male cow Patrick who had earned himself a reputation mainly just for being fat. There was three cows in all and several at a near by farm just watching us. The cows we interacted with had a strange color pattern, black with a wide white stripe covering the area between the front and back legs. We offered the cows food but still they were skittish. Eventually we got to touch and even pet the cows. We tried to lay down to ease the tension but this did not work. The cow is a large animal and these cows were very cute if not a bit fat. Eventually some of the human collaborators attempted to flamingo dance with the cow by letting the cow lead. I think Masha got it on tape.
Before going in for dinner we decided to go look at the water troff, a man made watering hole meant for the animals of this region to get a drink. There is a camera set up meant to take pictures of the different animals who drink there. The camera senses motion. The water was filthy and an unhealthy green color. We decided to go to the top of the hill and see if any animals come. It was getting dark but it was quite lovely. There were animals out, letting us know they were there through sound. We didn't see most of these animals but we did see two Owls who were hooting away. The experience had a nice spiritual feel to it.
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Reflection: Other Related Research
Sedgwick Trip
By Hannah Vainstein (05/06/09 12:25:19)
Our first field trip for Interspecies Collaboration was to Santa Cruz Island off the coast of California and our next field trip is to the Sedgwick Reserve near Santa Ynes California. During our first outing a small group of us had used a meditation from the book 7 Steps to Communication with Animals by Carol Gurney. Her mediation was similar to a meditation that I have been doing for several years.
In my practice called Theta Healing, a technique developed by Vianna Stible, one travels through what are called the seven layers of existence in order to reach a state which one feels and is connected to all that is. Through this meditation one achieves a theta brain wave from which the technique is named. Once entering the theta brain wave and the seventh plane of existence one then commands is then able to ask to communicate with a particular animal or ask if there is an animal which wishes to speak to them or ask for an encounter with an animal.
On the Island we used Carol Gurney’s meditation and people seemed to respond. For the Sedgwick I will lead our group through Vianna’s mediation and facilitate a space for everyone to seek an interaction with an animal. I will also crate a passage way for people to walk though. Once they walk through this space they will be entering into a journey to receive a communication with an animal. We have discussed possible singing with the coyotes. I think is would be a wonderful endeavor. I will also encourage everyone to be very aware of feeling they have and thoughts that might enter their heads. Everyone receives communications differently and it is important to be aware of their surroundings.
[Write Comment]
By Hannah Vainstein (05/06/09 12:25:19)
Our first field trip for Interspecies Collaboration was to Santa Cruz Island off the coast of California and our next field trip is to the Sedgwick Reserve near Santa Ynes California. During our first outing a small group of us had used a meditation from the book 7 Steps to Communication with Animals by Carol Gurney. Her mediation was similar to a meditation that I have been doing for several years.
In my practice called Theta Healing, a technique developed by Vianna Stible, one travels through what are called the seven layers of existence in order to reach a state which one feels and is connected to all that is. Through this meditation one achieves a theta brain wave from which the technique is named. Once entering the theta brain wave and the seventh plane of existence one then commands is then able to ask to communicate with a particular animal or ask if there is an animal which wishes to speak to them or ask for an encounter with an animal.
On the Island we used Carol Gurney’s meditation and people seemed to respond. For the Sedgwick I will lead our group through Vianna’s mediation and facilitate a space for everyone to seek an interaction with an animal. I will also crate a passage way for people to walk though. Once they walk through this space they will be entering into a journey to receive a communication with an animal. We have discussed possible singing with the coyotes. I think is would be a wonderful endeavor. I will also encourage everyone to be very aware of feeling they have and thoughts that might enter their heads. Everyone receives communications differently and it is important to be aware of their surroundings.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Sharing Thoughts with Tibou the Dog
By Shanti Harris (05/12/09 13:17:30)
Related animal: Dog
The morning before animal communicator Barbara Janell came to visit our class, I had followed the steps discussed in the text "The Language of Animals." I had hoped that practicing the meditation and visualization techniques would allow me to further understand Barbara's points of view and exercises related to interspecies telepathic communication. She discussed similar techniques and strategies to help clear the mind and become in tune with the natural world and all beings, non-human and human.
Our class was fortunate to have Tibou the Dog with us so that Barbara could demonstrate her methods of interspecies communication. After our class had completed some of the techniques she discussed (Watching the breath, relaxing all parts of the body, feeling Tibou's presence, etc) I had noticed about an hour into the discussion session that Tibou had been sitting next to my feet for almost five minutes. This seemed like a long period of time for a dog to sit near one person when multiple people were in the room.
Tibou stared at me during that period of time. It felt like he was trying to tell me something. I stared back at him and sent him positive thoughts and images of warmth and kindness. He continued to stair back at me for a few minutes and I felt a similar feeling/vibration from Tibou that I had sent him. This exchange of positive vibrations between species (dog and human) was quite strong. I predict these thoughts/vibrations were easily exchanged as a result of the meditation techniques I did earlier that morning, practicing Barbara's techniques and being in tune with Tibou's presence.
After reading “7 Steps to Communicating with Animals” and hearing Barbara Janell speak, I have become more aware of my surroundings, the environment, people and the animals (birds, squirrels, dogs, raccoons) that I see on a day to day basis. I try to feel the presence of the various species I encounter. Sometimes I send them visual images or thoughts. I don’t always get a response, but occasionally I notice that they strongly sense my presence.
[Write Comment]
By Shanti Harris (05/12/09 13:17:30)
Related animal: Dog
The morning before animal communicator Barbara Janell came to visit our class, I had followed the steps discussed in the text "The Language of Animals." I had hoped that practicing the meditation and visualization techniques would allow me to further understand Barbara's points of view and exercises related to interspecies telepathic communication. She discussed similar techniques and strategies to help clear the mind and become in tune with the natural world and all beings, non-human and human.
Our class was fortunate to have Tibou the Dog with us so that Barbara could demonstrate her methods of interspecies communication. After our class had completed some of the techniques she discussed (Watching the breath, relaxing all parts of the body, feeling Tibou's presence, etc) I had noticed about an hour into the discussion session that Tibou had been sitting next to my feet for almost five minutes. This seemed like a long period of time for a dog to sit near one person when multiple people were in the room.
Tibou stared at me during that period of time. It felt like he was trying to tell me something. I stared back at him and sent him positive thoughts and images of warmth and kindness. He continued to stair back at me for a few minutes and I felt a similar feeling/vibration from Tibou that I had sent him. This exchange of positive vibrations between species (dog and human) was quite strong. I predict these thoughts/vibrations were easily exchanged as a result of the meditation techniques I did earlier that morning, practicing Barbara's techniques and being in tune with Tibou's presence.
After reading “7 Steps to Communicating with Animals” and hearing Barbara Janell speak, I have become more aware of my surroundings, the environment, people and the animals (birds, squirrels, dogs, raccoons) that I see on a day to day basis. I try to feel the presence of the various species I encounter. Sometimes I send them visual images or thoughts. I don’t always get a response, but occasionally I notice that they strongly sense my presence.
[Write Comment]
Skunk video
By Tanasa Slovin (06/01/10 12:10:15)
I just moved into this new house on Trigo in January have began to notice that a family of about nine baby skunks live in my backyard. The most interesting thing about it is that the baby skunks are not nocturnal! And they are not afraid of humans. I haven't tried to physically interact with them beside filming them and documenting photo's of them because I don't want to chance getting sprayed. They are just so adorable. The most I have seen at one time is nine. The baby skunks live underneath a shed in my backyard. I notice them eating left over food or just running around the yard at any time of the day, even if there are a dozen people in the backyard at the same time. When the baby skunks see me and/or other humans they turn around and gather together in a pack and lift up their fluffy tails, however they never actually spray. I have gotten pretty close to them and they don't go away and hide, but they just lift up their tail and still nothing ever comes out. I'm beginning to think that baby skunks cannot physically spray.. otherwise I think I would have definitely been sprayed by now! I want to upload a video I took of them playing with a chair in our backyard, I'm still trying to figure out how to upload it. I'll try again!
[Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (06/01/10 12:10:15)
I just moved into this new house on Trigo in January have began to notice that a family of about nine baby skunks live in my backyard. The most interesting thing about it is that the baby skunks are not nocturnal! And they are not afraid of humans. I haven't tried to physically interact with them beside filming them and documenting photo's of them because I don't want to chance getting sprayed. They are just so adorable. The most I have seen at one time is nine. The baby skunks live underneath a shed in my backyard. I notice them eating left over food or just running around the yard at any time of the day, even if there are a dozen people in the backyard at the same time. When the baby skunks see me and/or other humans they turn around and gather together in a pack and lift up their fluffy tails, however they never actually spray. I have gotten pretty close to them and they don't go away and hide, but they just lift up their tail and still nothing ever comes out. I'm beginning to think that baby skunks cannot physically spray.. otherwise I think I would have definitely been sprayed by now! I want to upload a video I took of them playing with a chair in our backyard, I'm still trying to figure out how to upload it. I'll try again!
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Snowy Plover
By Megan Mueller (04/28/14 21:36:37)
Related animal: Bird
I encountered a Snowy Plover bird on one of the first days I moved to Goleta. While walking on the beach at Coal Oil Point, my boyfriend and myself met the friendliest bird. Not knowing about the reserve/endangered nature of the bird, we sat on the beach and interacted with the bird for about an hour.
[Write Comment]
By Megan Mueller (04/28/14 21:36:37)
Related animal: Bird
I encountered a Snowy Plover bird on one of the first days I moved to Goleta. While walking on the beach at Coal Oil Point, my boyfriend and myself met the friendliest bird. Not knowing about the reserve/endangered nature of the bird, we sat on the beach and interacted with the bird for about an hour.
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South Africa
By Sinead Kennedy (06/04/09 02:23:39)
I started my time in South Africa feeling as if this was my time to conquer the sea. I quickly learned that is was not an okay approach to take towards the ocean. It is angry when it wants to be, and then exceptionally calm the next minute. It allows you onto it's surface only on certain days, and when it does, you feel like you're on thin ice with this angry thing.
However, a month into it, and having spent countless hours out as sea, I began to feel completely different towards the ocean. It became this energy, this being, that acted as it pleased. No, actually, it wasn't angry, it just wasn't expected to be perfect for you. The ocean wasn't there for our boats, it was there, harboring this magical marine layer of mysterious life.
The ocean can feel very mystical. The animals within are almost fairy tale, until you get in and join them. To truly feel a part of this life, however, I think one has to earn it. It takes awhile to get a true understanding of the ocean and it's creatures. But once you're in, it's amazing. Some animals are curious, and some just seem not to care. It is the ones who don't really even notice your presence that make me feel the most at home. They don't even notice, as it feels just right to be in the ocean alongside them.
[Write Comment]
By Sinead Kennedy (06/04/09 02:23:39)
I started my time in South Africa feeling as if this was my time to conquer the sea. I quickly learned that is was not an okay approach to take towards the ocean. It is angry when it wants to be, and then exceptionally calm the next minute. It allows you onto it's surface only on certain days, and when it does, you feel like you're on thin ice with this angry thing.
However, a month into it, and having spent countless hours out as sea, I began to feel completely different towards the ocean. It became this energy, this being, that acted as it pleased. No, actually, it wasn't angry, it just wasn't expected to be perfect for you. The ocean wasn't there for our boats, it was there, harboring this magical marine layer of mysterious life.
The ocean can feel very mystical. The animals within are almost fairy tale, until you get in and join them. To truly feel a part of this life, however, I think one has to earn it. It takes awhile to get a true understanding of the ocean and it's creatures. But once you're in, it's amazing. Some animals are curious, and some just seem not to care. It is the ones who don't really even notice your presence that make me feel the most at home. They don't even notice, as it feels just right to be in the ocean alongside them.
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How To: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Step by Step Guide to Collaborating with Animals
By Kathryn J. Andrews wylie beckert (05/09/06 13:19:04)
How to artistically collaborate with animals
Step 1: Choosing a collaborator-
Think about which animal you feel closest to. An affinity towards an animal is an essential part of the collaboration. Some people are more connected spiritually to dogs or cats, while others prefer venturing into the wild to seek out potential collaborators. What kind of collaboration do you want to be involved in? More importantly, what kind of collaboration will your animal be interested in participating in? Perhaps your “domestic” animal partner wishes to create a collaboration in which he may express his “wild” side and natural, animalistic leanings. Remember that art is for animals, as it is for humans, a venue for self-expression and exploration of the inner being.
Step 2: Choose a goal-
You must have a goal in order to accomplish your collaboration. This goal may change during the course of the experimentation but it is always important to have one in sight as a foundation for the developing collaboration. What is your desired outcome? What do you think your animal collaborator hopes to get out of the experience? Be realistic. You cannot be disappointed with your animal if it proves resistant to human interference. If this turns out to be the case, reevaluate your goal to reflect your animal’s interests as well as your own. Be willing to compromise your own vision and put yourself in an uncomfortable position to accommodate your animal counterpart.
Step 3: Initiate your collaboration-
Put yourself in your animal’s position. If the animal is “domestic” then it will be more used to human interaction. Try initiating the collaboration through play or through variations on your usual interaction with the animal. The ways of doing this are infinite and vary greatly depending on the nature of your intended collaboration. If your animal is “wild” you should be willing to find a non-invasive way to express your interest in collaboration. This could involve many hours spent sitting quietly in or near the animal’s natural environment to show it your good intentions and non-threatening nature. Do not be discouraged if your collaborator does not make their presence known during this time; no doubt he is observing you from a distance, and is himself contemplating the potential of your collaborative energy. While you are being thus observed, take the time to experience the world from the animal’s perspective; this will put you in an ideal mindset for a successful collaboration, and may lead to the alteration of your goals early on in the project. If your desired collaborator is a vole, hunker down in the grass, watching fearfully for the shadows of hawks. If you wish to work with a mountain lion, keep watch for small prey from a high tree branch. Only by integrating yourself into the animal’s world can you begin to understand its outlooks, hopes, and interests. Note that it is against the nature of collaboration to harm your animal counterpart, or to collaborate with them against their will. If your ideal partner is unwilling to collaborate, he will make it known. Small animals may subtly express their disinterest, while the signs from larger or carnivorous animals will be unmistakable. Heed their warnings.
Step 4: Contact!
You will know if the animal decides to accept your invitation to collaborate. Domestic animals will express their interest in your unusual behavior. They will show their usual signs of interest or excitement, and may begin to seek you out actively to begin your collaboration. Your dog may begin to bark excitedly at the prospect of a new experience. A cow might produce more milk than usual as a sign of anticipation of the intended collaboration. A wild animal may begin to approach you more closely, or accept you into its environment and go about its business around you. This is the time to announce yourself. As you go about preparing for the collaboration, talk so the animal gets used to your voice. Experiment with producing noises similar to those of your collaborator. If you are collaborating with a squirrel, try making chattering noises, and rustle the leaves around you in a non-threatening manner. Once the animal realizes that you are a non-threatening, independent life form, rather than just a passive element of the environment, collaboration can begin.
Step 5: Working together towards a common goal-
What do you think your collaborator wishes to get out of this interaction? How can you help your animal counterpart achieve his/her goals? These are some of the most important things to consider as you begin to collaborate. An exact set of instructions is difficult to provide at this point, as the course you take will depend on the nature of your collaboration, from a complex piece of interspecies art to the simple act of mutual play. The main thing to keep in mind is that your collaboration is a living, changing process. Be always open to new directions, and take cues from your animal collaborator—this is their experiment too, and they are trying to streamline your collaboration and offer new and exciting ideas. Always remember to be safe, and take cues as to your own behavior based on the actions of your collaborator. Only in this way can a true collaboration be performed, and a rich experience be had by all parties involved.
Now get out there and collaborate animalistically!
[Write Comment]
By Kathryn J. Andrews wylie beckert (05/09/06 13:19:04)
How to artistically collaborate with animals
Step 1: Choosing a collaborator-
Think about which animal you feel closest to. An affinity towards an animal is an essential part of the collaboration. Some people are more connected spiritually to dogs or cats, while others prefer venturing into the wild to seek out potential collaborators. What kind of collaboration do you want to be involved in? More importantly, what kind of collaboration will your animal be interested in participating in? Perhaps your “domestic” animal partner wishes to create a collaboration in which he may express his “wild” side and natural, animalistic leanings. Remember that art is for animals, as it is for humans, a venue for self-expression and exploration of the inner being.
Step 2: Choose a goal-
You must have a goal in order to accomplish your collaboration. This goal may change during the course of the experimentation but it is always important to have one in sight as a foundation for the developing collaboration. What is your desired outcome? What do you think your animal collaborator hopes to get out of the experience? Be realistic. You cannot be disappointed with your animal if it proves resistant to human interference. If this turns out to be the case, reevaluate your goal to reflect your animal’s interests as well as your own. Be willing to compromise your own vision and put yourself in an uncomfortable position to accommodate your animal counterpart.
Step 3: Initiate your collaboration-
Put yourself in your animal’s position. If the animal is “domestic” then it will be more used to human interaction. Try initiating the collaboration through play or through variations on your usual interaction with the animal. The ways of doing this are infinite and vary greatly depending on the nature of your intended collaboration. If your animal is “wild” you should be willing to find a non-invasive way to express your interest in collaboration. This could involve many hours spent sitting quietly in or near the animal’s natural environment to show it your good intentions and non-threatening nature. Do not be discouraged if your collaborator does not make their presence known during this time; no doubt he is observing you from a distance, and is himself contemplating the potential of your collaborative energy. While you are being thus observed, take the time to experience the world from the animal’s perspective; this will put you in an ideal mindset for a successful collaboration, and may lead to the alteration of your goals early on in the project. If your desired collaborator is a vole, hunker down in the grass, watching fearfully for the shadows of hawks. If you wish to work with a mountain lion, keep watch for small prey from a high tree branch. Only by integrating yourself into the animal’s world can you begin to understand its outlooks, hopes, and interests. Note that it is against the nature of collaboration to harm your animal counterpart, or to collaborate with them against their will. If your ideal partner is unwilling to collaborate, he will make it known. Small animals may subtly express their disinterest, while the signs from larger or carnivorous animals will be unmistakable. Heed their warnings.
Step 4: Contact!
You will know if the animal decides to accept your invitation to collaborate. Domestic animals will express their interest in your unusual behavior. They will show their usual signs of interest or excitement, and may begin to seek you out actively to begin your collaboration. Your dog may begin to bark excitedly at the prospect of a new experience. A cow might produce more milk than usual as a sign of anticipation of the intended collaboration. A wild animal may begin to approach you more closely, or accept you into its environment and go about its business around you. This is the time to announce yourself. As you go about preparing for the collaboration, talk so the animal gets used to your voice. Experiment with producing noises similar to those of your collaborator. If you are collaborating with a squirrel, try making chattering noises, and rustle the leaves around you in a non-threatening manner. Once the animal realizes that you are a non-threatening, independent life form, rather than just a passive element of the environment, collaboration can begin.
Step 5: Working together towards a common goal-
What do you think your collaborator wishes to get out of this interaction? How can you help your animal counterpart achieve his/her goals? These are some of the most important things to consider as you begin to collaborate. An exact set of instructions is difficult to provide at this point, as the course you take will depend on the nature of your collaboration, from a complex piece of interspecies art to the simple act of mutual play. The main thing to keep in mind is that your collaboration is a living, changing process. Be always open to new directions, and take cues from your animal collaborator—this is their experiment too, and they are trying to streamline your collaboration and offer new and exciting ideas. Always remember to be safe, and take cues as to your own behavior based on the actions of your collaborator. Only in this way can a true collaboration be performed, and a rich experience be had by all parties involved.
Now get out there and collaborate animalistically!
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Art Related to Animal Rights
Steve Baker/Mary Kosut & Lisa Jean Moore
By Megan Mueller (05/31/14 20:17:40)
Steve Baker:
1. Steve Baker thinks people who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical is valid. But the purpose of his book is to highlight artists working with the theme of animal rights in ways that take responsibility for their actions without being bound to a clear line of what is right and what is wrong.
"So, against the grain of much contemporary commentary, this book presents the case for the importance of trusting artists to operate with integrity in relation to the animals that figure in their work. It argues that in approaching such work, there's much to be gained by setting out with the expectation that artists can be trusted to act in this manner."
2. The issue for Baker is taking the artist practice seriously.
"The book contends that contemporary art's distinctive contribution to understandings of human-animal relations will be recognized only if artists' practices-flawed and provisional as they may be- are taken seriously. To impose questions of ethics before even attending to the art is, at the very least, to risk failing to take those practices seriously."
3. Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece is that by performing this violent action in front of an audience he was setting the audience up to fail. An audience is generally a passive group. By expecting them to stop the artist is unreasonable. In both pieces, the artists were not concerned with the conditions of rats and goldfish, they were used as literal and symbolic tools to demonstrate life and death.
4. I don't think Baker is necessarily defending the pieces but is saying to not learn from them or to not consider them art would be a waste.
5. I think Baker is generally interested in artists working to highlight the issues of animal rights. But I don't think its necessarily a clear cut yes.
6. When thinking about myself as an artist, I believe that I do have responsibility ethical responsibilities. Those responsibilities include animals. When speaking for artist as a whole, I do not hold the group to the same standards. I do not want to be a censor. I think it is possible to learn from provocative pieces. But I will not partake in that dialogue by compromising animal life.
7. I definitely agree. I think there are many examples of compromise in science and cooking that should be held to the same standards as art practice.
Mary Kosut & Lisa Jean Moore
1. What important questions/issues does the text bring up?
What can contemporary interspecies bee/human art projects tell us about our shifting relationship to “nature” and the “animal” in visual culture?
There are species of animal and insect that held in high regard culturally than others. 1000 dead bees vs 1000 dead kittens.
2. How are the approaches to art making with animals different and/or similar than the ones discussed in Baker's text?
I think the approaches tend to use animal bi products (honey,honey combs, wax) or engage the animal as a co maker of the work.
[Write Comment]
By Megan Mueller (05/31/14 20:17:40)
Steve Baker:
1. Steve Baker thinks people who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical is valid. But the purpose of his book is to highlight artists working with the theme of animal rights in ways that take responsibility for their actions without being bound to a clear line of what is right and what is wrong.
"So, against the grain of much contemporary commentary, this book presents the case for the importance of trusting artists to operate with integrity in relation to the animals that figure in their work. It argues that in approaching such work, there's much to be gained by setting out with the expectation that artists can be trusted to act in this manner."
2. The issue for Baker is taking the artist practice seriously.
"The book contends that contemporary art's distinctive contribution to understandings of human-animal relations will be recognized only if artists' practices-flawed and provisional as they may be- are taken seriously. To impose questions of ethics before even attending to the art is, at the very least, to risk failing to take those practices seriously."
3. Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece is that by performing this violent action in front of an audience he was setting the audience up to fail. An audience is generally a passive group. By expecting them to stop the artist is unreasonable. In both pieces, the artists were not concerned with the conditions of rats and goldfish, they were used as literal and symbolic tools to demonstrate life and death.
4. I don't think Baker is necessarily defending the pieces but is saying to not learn from them or to not consider them art would be a waste.
5. I think Baker is generally interested in artists working to highlight the issues of animal rights. But I don't think its necessarily a clear cut yes.
6. When thinking about myself as an artist, I believe that I do have responsibility ethical responsibilities. Those responsibilities include animals. When speaking for artist as a whole, I do not hold the group to the same standards. I do not want to be a censor. I think it is possible to learn from provocative pieces. But I will not partake in that dialogue by compromising animal life.
7. I definitely agree. I think there are many examples of compromise in science and cooking that should be held to the same standards as art practice.
Mary Kosut & Lisa Jean Moore
1. What important questions/issues does the text bring up?
What can contemporary interspecies bee/human art projects tell us about our shifting relationship to “nature” and the “animal” in visual culture?
There are species of animal and insect that held in high regard culturally than others. 1000 dead bees vs 1000 dead kittens.
2. How are the approaches to art making with animals different and/or similar than the ones discussed in Baker's text?
I think the approaches tend to use animal bi products (honey,honey combs, wax) or engage the animal as a co maker of the work.
[Write Comment]
Steve Baker?s
By Avid Mozaffarian (04/23/10 00:53:12)
Steve Baker?s ?The Postmodern Animal? was a much more in-depth and rather confusing reading in comparison to Mollman's book. I don?t know if it was because of the style of the writing, the material, or just me, but I did not find this reading that interesting. I do believe wild animals and artist definitely have much more in common because of their uniqueness and different perspective on the world than others. Postmodernist might find these animals threatening to them because of their own weakness, not because of the definitions do not fit one another.
[Write Comment]
By Avid Mozaffarian (04/23/10 00:53:12)
Steve Baker?s ?The Postmodern Animal? was a much more in-depth and rather confusing reading in comparison to Mollman's book. I don?t know if it was because of the style of the writing, the material, or just me, but I did not find this reading that interesting. I do believe wild animals and artist definitely have much more in common because of their uniqueness and different perspective on the world than others. Postmodernist might find these animals threatening to them because of their own weakness, not because of the definitions do not fit one another.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Animal Communication
Talking to Reese and Napping with Bees
By Tessa Tapscott (04/22/13 11:15:57)
Related animals: Bee, Horse, Human
I found Barbara Janelle’s visit to be very inspiring and thought provoking. While I cannot say that I am true believer in such direct animal communication, I appreciate someone that recognizes that animals are conscious, sentient beings with voices that should be heard. My favorite part of the work shop was when we got to search out and connect with our own animals because I felt like I really did feel myself telepathically talking to them. The mediation exercises to get to the point to be able to do that were very helpful as well. I have been trying to set a side a quiet 15 minutes each day to connect with my horse, Reese, because whether or not I am actually speaking to him or if is all in my head, it is a very calming, centering practice that will only benefit me.
I have found that connecting to Reese is one of the fastest connections, I attribute that to the somewhat telepathic connect we utilize when we go riding together. I can’t say that he has been telling me things that I do not already know or could guess at, but the thoughts come paired with a voice and images that do not seem to be my own. He makes jokes! Most recently when I was saying my goodbyes to him at the end of our session I told him that I miss and love him, to which he responded that he loves me too, but because his heart is physically so much larger than mine it means that he loves me more. Even when these interactions are over I do not feel that I can completely embrace the idea of direct animal communication, but there have been some interesting coincidences; for example, I received a text from the lady that rides Reese (who never sends me updates) saying how good he was that day, right after we began doing these communications. I thing he reason it is so hard for me to accept is because it seems so simple. If I learned this much in one session why could we not all be able to telepathically communicate with animals? If they are so free with their responses, would talking to them like this regularly solve many behavioral issues (both on the animal and the human’s part)?
While I enjoy talking to Reese, I did want to try to connect with some other creatures. I did not set out looking for those creatures and figured that they would just find me when they wanted to. And I was right. I searched for a bench on campus to take a break on and chose one only to realize it was already occupied by a small swarm of wood-boring bees. Usually, this sort of thing would make me quite uncomfortable and I would have gone to find a new bench, but with this class in mind I stayed put. I ended up laying down to take a nap. As I lay there, they the bees simply went on with their business, buzzing quite loudly and near to my head, but never seeming to be bothered by my presence. While I could not quite connect with one in the way I did with Reese, I felt enveloped in their noise and industry. I am enjoying this chance to face animals that I may have once cringed at, but now can view in a new light. Attached is a sad attempt to capture their buzzing.
[Write Comment]
By Tessa Tapscott (04/22/13 11:15:57)
Related animals: Bee, Horse, Human
I found Barbara Janelle’s visit to be very inspiring and thought provoking. While I cannot say that I am true believer in such direct animal communication, I appreciate someone that recognizes that animals are conscious, sentient beings with voices that should be heard. My favorite part of the work shop was when we got to search out and connect with our own animals because I felt like I really did feel myself telepathically talking to them. The mediation exercises to get to the point to be able to do that were very helpful as well. I have been trying to set a side a quiet 15 minutes each day to connect with my horse, Reese, because whether or not I am actually speaking to him or if is all in my head, it is a very calming, centering practice that will only benefit me.
I have found that connecting to Reese is one of the fastest connections, I attribute that to the somewhat telepathic connect we utilize when we go riding together. I can’t say that he has been telling me things that I do not already know or could guess at, but the thoughts come paired with a voice and images that do not seem to be my own. He makes jokes! Most recently when I was saying my goodbyes to him at the end of our session I told him that I miss and love him, to which he responded that he loves me too, but because his heart is physically so much larger than mine it means that he loves me more. Even when these interactions are over I do not feel that I can completely embrace the idea of direct animal communication, but there have been some interesting coincidences; for example, I received a text from the lady that rides Reese (who never sends me updates) saying how good he was that day, right after we began doing these communications. I thing he reason it is so hard for me to accept is because it seems so simple. If I learned this much in one session why could we not all be able to telepathically communicate with animals? If they are so free with their responses, would talking to them like this regularly solve many behavioral issues (both on the animal and the human’s part)?
While I enjoy talking to Reese, I did want to try to connect with some other creatures. I did not set out looking for those creatures and figured that they would just find me when they wanted to. And I was right. I searched for a bench on campus to take a break on and chose one only to realize it was already occupied by a small swarm of wood-boring bees. Usually, this sort of thing would make me quite uncomfortable and I would have gone to find a new bench, but with this class in mind I stayed put. I ended up laying down to take a nap. As I lay there, they the bees simply went on with their business, buzzing quite loudly and near to my head, but never seeming to be bothered by my presence. While I could not quite connect with one in the way I did with Reese, I felt enveloped in their noise and industry. I am enjoying this chance to face animals that I may have once cringed at, but now can view in a new light. Attached is a sad attempt to capture their buzzing.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Telepathic Communication with a giraffe
By Shanti Harris (04/28/09 08:05:03)
Related animal: Giraffe
This weekend I went to the Santa Barbara Zoo. I attempted to communicated with the animals telepathically and sent them both visual and emotional messages. I did not seem to recieve much feedback at first, however, was drawn to the Giraffes. I felt like I was being pulled towards them as I walked along the path at the zoo. When I reached their location, I calmly waltched them interact with eachother. I tried to send one of the giraffes the message that I wished to see him/her more closely so that we could communicate. One of the giraffes turned around and slowly walked a little bit closer towards my direction. The giraffe did not get very close, but had staired at me for about four minutes. I staired back, sending positive vibrations, and felt a calmness, and sweetness as the giraffe looked at me. After four minutes, it had carried on with its previous activities (eating and interacting with the other giraffes) .
I am convinced that the giraffe sensed I was trying to communicate with it. My presense was certainly noticed. I hope to have more encounters like this and develop the awareness and skills to communicate with animals more frequently and clearly.
[Write Comment]
By Shanti Harris (04/28/09 08:05:03)
Related animal: Giraffe
This weekend I went to the Santa Barbara Zoo. I attempted to communicated with the animals telepathically and sent them both visual and emotional messages. I did not seem to recieve much feedback at first, however, was drawn to the Giraffes. I felt like I was being pulled towards them as I walked along the path at the zoo. When I reached their location, I calmly waltched them interact with eachother. I tried to send one of the giraffes the message that I wished to see him/her more closely so that we could communicate. One of the giraffes turned around and slowly walked a little bit closer towards my direction. The giraffe did not get very close, but had staired at me for about four minutes. I staired back, sending positive vibrations, and felt a calmness, and sweetness as the giraffe looked at me. After four minutes, it had carried on with its previous activities (eating and interacting with the other giraffes) .
I am convinced that the giraffe sensed I was trying to communicate with it. My presense was certainly noticed. I hope to have more encounters like this and develop the awareness and skills to communicate with animals more frequently and clearly.
[Write Comment]
Telepathy With Animals Movie
By leona chen (05/12/09 21:33:50)
4/23/09
Telepathy with Animals film
Kathy High: Film producer/ director
Dawn Hayman: animal psychic
The one thing that was interesting from the movie we saw on telepathic communication with animals was the three step activity that helped to engage communication with other animals.
1.) sit quietly with animal
2.) ask them to describe themselves
3.) tell them something about yourself
In the movie, I learned that animal language is a foreign language. Trusting if the animal is actually communicating or if its your own imagination is difficult to tell. And till this day that is still one thing I struggle with in my interspecies collaboration.
Related Website: Animal Communicator: Dawn Hayman
[Write Comment]
By leona chen (05/12/09 21:33:50)
4/23/09
Telepathy with Animals film
Kathy High: Film producer/ director
Dawn Hayman: animal psychic
The one thing that was interesting from the movie we saw on telepathic communication with animals was the three step activity that helped to engage communication with other animals.
1.) sit quietly with animal
2.) ask them to describe themselves
3.) tell them something about yourself
In the movie, I learned that animal language is a foreign language. Trusting if the animal is actually communicating or if its your own imagination is difficult to tell. And till this day that is still one thing I struggle with in my interspecies collaboration.
Related Website: Animal Communicator: Dawn Hayman
[Write Comment]
Than Man Who Talks to Whales Chapter 10
By Royce Chun (06/07/10 18:46:44)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found Nollman's ideas on interspecies relationships(more specifically humans and other species) very interesting. I agree with how humans can live alongside other species. I mean, wouldn't it be fantastic if humans managed to become "friends" with all other species? It would be remarkable if one day in the distant future, agressive species could walk right by a human without attacking. Of course this will probably never happen and would most likely prove to be unhealthy for the other species as it would affect their natural survival instincts. If dolphins, seals, and whales could playfully interact with humans, It would be great if this friendly behavior could span across many more species.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Royce Chun (06/07/10 18:46:44)
Related animal: Dolphin
I found Nollman's ideas on interspecies relationships(more specifically humans and other species) very interesting. I agree with how humans can live alongside other species. I mean, wouldn't it be fantastic if humans managed to become "friends" with all other species? It would be remarkable if one day in the distant future, agressive species could walk right by a human without attacking. Of course this will probably never happen and would most likely prove to be unhealthy for the other species as it would affect their natural survival instincts. If dolphins, seals, and whales could playfully interact with humans, It would be great if this friendly behavior could span across many more species.
The Art of Interspecies Communication
By Jessica Oropesa (06/09/10 03:01:22)
Related animals: Dolphin, Whale
What I found most interesting about Jim Nollman's work is his ability to convey his thoughts and opinions on the relationship of dolphin to human. He describes them, a common animal, and us, an extremely common animal, as "like opposite faces of the same large-brained coin. We tend to reflect each other." He also states that our responsibility as animals of this Earth is to harmonize and resonate with them. His success with music-making and the dolphins is a perfect example of interspecies interaction. He was able to successfully "play" with the dolphins as they swam around the boat and made some kind of contact with the humans.
In his epilogue, Nollman claimed that dolphins are a non-human people and in that sense, all animals are non-human people. Every individual is unique and different, but all are special. He also quoted an Indian chief, stating that "all things are connected like the blood which unites one family. Whatever befalls the Earth befalls the son of Earth." Just like how differences among races in the human race cause conflict sometimes, there is definitely conflict between us and the animal world. But if we could all understand that we are all part of the human race, that race shouldn't matter, then we should understand that we are all part of the Earth, and species shouldn't batter either.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Jessica Oropesa (06/09/10 03:01:22)
Related animals: Dolphin, Whale
What I found most interesting about Jim Nollman's work is his ability to convey his thoughts and opinions on the relationship of dolphin to human. He describes them, a common animal, and us, an extremely common animal, as "like opposite faces of the same large-brained coin. We tend to reflect each other." He also states that our responsibility as animals of this Earth is to harmonize and resonate with them. His success with music-making and the dolphins is a perfect example of interspecies interaction. He was able to successfully "play" with the dolphins as they swam around the boat and made some kind of contact with the humans.
In his epilogue, Nollman claimed that dolphins are a non-human people and in that sense, all animals are non-human people. Every individual is unique and different, but all are special. He also quoted an Indian chief, stating that "all things are connected like the blood which unites one family. Whatever befalls the Earth befalls the son of Earth." Just like how differences among races in the human race cause conflict sometimes, there is definitely conflict between us and the animal world. But if we could all understand that we are all part of the human race, that race shouldn't matter, then we should understand that we are all part of the Earth, and species shouldn't batter either.
The Art of Interspecies Communication by Jim Nollman
By Montana McLeod (05/05/14 09:24:28)
The Turkey Trot was a rather interesting piece regarding a man’s ability to facilitate both his admiration for animals and his artistic outlet. Nollman comments on anthropomorphism, the projection of human attributes to an animal. And really, so many of us are guilty of doing it. It’s a form of comical relief and recognizing your pet as an individual. But really we should question why we assume that they must carry human qualities. We automatically assume that they are created with the ability to express emotion and intellect, although that’s not always the case. Jellyfish are brainless, spineless, and heartless. They do not have the capabilities of expressing emotion or intellect, yet we may still project characteristics on them when we see their intraspecific relationships in an aquarium full of jellyfish.
I think this made me question if our pets saw us as only capable of certain emotions. Maybe that’s why they can only respond to certain situations.
Nollman wishes to avert this “dead view” and finds that he can learn from different animals through his artistic abilities. At one point he is told to “ride the turkey’s energy.” This was relatable due to the work we have done with Janelle. To see how he was able to establish a bond and channel the energy was incredible. He acknowledges that the animals may already have their own form of communication, moreover, we who possess the upper hand in knowledge and research, should try to acclimate to theirs. It’s a wonderful idea to be able to communicate with your pet or any animal, however, I do believe that it won’t be obtainable in the way we have since pursued it. He says “language reflects perception” and if we cannot balance the understanding of our perception and their perception, we will not be able to communicate collectively.
The animals must need to be in their own environment, under stable circumstances, and comfortable in the place of human company. By working with the animal and not just by observing the animal he was able to truly gain a better understanding of the animal’s perspective.
These newly developed understandings of mutualistic/ symbiotic relationships provides so much more knowledge for the understanding of the relationships that make up our world, and provides for many necessary functions of life.
[Write Comment]
By Montana McLeod (05/05/14 09:24:28)
The Turkey Trot was a rather interesting piece regarding a man’s ability to facilitate both his admiration for animals and his artistic outlet. Nollman comments on anthropomorphism, the projection of human attributes to an animal. And really, so many of us are guilty of doing it. It’s a form of comical relief and recognizing your pet as an individual. But really we should question why we assume that they must carry human qualities. We automatically assume that they are created with the ability to express emotion and intellect, although that’s not always the case. Jellyfish are brainless, spineless, and heartless. They do not have the capabilities of expressing emotion or intellect, yet we may still project characteristics on them when we see their intraspecific relationships in an aquarium full of jellyfish.
I think this made me question if our pets saw us as only capable of certain emotions. Maybe that’s why they can only respond to certain situations.
Nollman wishes to avert this “dead view” and finds that he can learn from different animals through his artistic abilities. At one point he is told to “ride the turkey’s energy.” This was relatable due to the work we have done with Janelle. To see how he was able to establish a bond and channel the energy was incredible. He acknowledges that the animals may already have their own form of communication, moreover, we who possess the upper hand in knowledge and research, should try to acclimate to theirs. It’s a wonderful idea to be able to communicate with your pet or any animal, however, I do believe that it won’t be obtainable in the way we have since pursued it. He says “language reflects perception” and if we cannot balance the understanding of our perception and their perception, we will not be able to communicate collectively.
The animals must need to be in their own environment, under stable circumstances, and comfortable in the place of human company. By working with the animal and not just by observing the animal he was able to truly gain a better understanding of the animal’s perspective.
These newly developed understandings of mutualistic/ symbiotic relationships provides so much more knowledge for the understanding of the relationships that make up our world, and provides for many necessary functions of life.
[Write Comment]
The Country State of Mind
By Megan Mueller (05/22/14 11:33:00)
The Country State of Mind is an excerpt from Barry Lopez's book Arctic Dreams. Its a combination of travelogue, historical information, and critique of research/Western thought. Lopez speaks from the first person and is informed by actually walking the spaces in which he writes about. I underlined quite a bit of the chapter, feeling quite moved by his observations and analysis.
A few gems:
One is better with a precise and local knowledge, and a wariness of borders.
It is impossible to seperate their culture from these landscapes. The lands is like a kind of knowledge traveling in time through them. Land does for them what architecture sometimes does for us. It provides a sense of place, of scale, of history, and a conviction that what they most dread-annihilation, eclipse-will not occur.
English divides time into linear segments by making use of many tenses....A Hopi would be confounded by the idea that time flowed from the past into the present.
A couple students from UCSB did an outdoor art project in the Mojave desert in the beginning of this quarter. We were the first to arrive on site for installation, beating the curator, meaning that we were responsible for finding out plots of land on the 40 acre site. The curator had emailed us a hand drawn map of a cul-da-sac plotting the center point with an existing landmark. Standing in the sand, off the road, we found the road to curve more than the drawing allotted for. Shifting the orientation of the lines from 90 degree angles to a softer rounder curve. The desert seemed desolate. It was hot, barren, every step felt important as you tried to place your foot on areas of sand that appeared sturdy. If they were not, you foot collapsed the roof of shallow tunnels dug beneath the surface.
It took a great deal of time to find the one landmark we were given, it took even more time to drag our materials by hand to our spaces. We had driven a Uhual from Santa Barbara to Wonder Valley, so it was not possible to use the vehicle to deliver our materials any further than the road. The more time that we spent that weekend on the site, the more we saw. We saw two snakes, one coiled under a bush - I assume taking refuge from the sun and the other a small thin white snakes slithering on the ground and then away into a hole in the sand. I saw an iridescently blue beetle play dead when I moved the sand in front of it. There were more plants than I realized were there, in the middle of the day, they looked brown and hot and dead. Once the sun began to set around 6, the color palette shifted to soft greens and yellows.
Point being, the longer I spent time on the site, the more I learned about it. Being present allowed me to realize that there is indeed a flourishing and resilient ecosystem and the nuances of space, time, and place. These animals, insects, etc could be read about but informed me so much more when allowed to be witness to their lives. Mr. Lopez already understands what I have recently just learned. He articulates his observations, experiences, and research in a poetic manner. His way of writing is an inspiration.
[Write Comment]
By Megan Mueller (05/22/14 11:33:00)
The Country State of Mind is an excerpt from Barry Lopez's book Arctic Dreams. Its a combination of travelogue, historical information, and critique of research/Western thought. Lopez speaks from the first person and is informed by actually walking the spaces in which he writes about. I underlined quite a bit of the chapter, feeling quite moved by his observations and analysis.
A few gems:
One is better with a precise and local knowledge, and a wariness of borders.
It is impossible to seperate their culture from these landscapes. The lands is like a kind of knowledge traveling in time through them. Land does for them what architecture sometimes does for us. It provides a sense of place, of scale, of history, and a conviction that what they most dread-annihilation, eclipse-will not occur.
English divides time into linear segments by making use of many tenses....A Hopi would be confounded by the idea that time flowed from the past into the present.
A couple students from UCSB did an outdoor art project in the Mojave desert in the beginning of this quarter. We were the first to arrive on site for installation, beating the curator, meaning that we were responsible for finding out plots of land on the 40 acre site. The curator had emailed us a hand drawn map of a cul-da-sac plotting the center point with an existing landmark. Standing in the sand, off the road, we found the road to curve more than the drawing allotted for. Shifting the orientation of the lines from 90 degree angles to a softer rounder curve. The desert seemed desolate. It was hot, barren, every step felt important as you tried to place your foot on areas of sand that appeared sturdy. If they were not, you foot collapsed the roof of shallow tunnels dug beneath the surface.
It took a great deal of time to find the one landmark we were given, it took even more time to drag our materials by hand to our spaces. We had driven a Uhual from Santa Barbara to Wonder Valley, so it was not possible to use the vehicle to deliver our materials any further than the road. The more time that we spent that weekend on the site, the more we saw. We saw two snakes, one coiled under a bush - I assume taking refuge from the sun and the other a small thin white snakes slithering on the ground and then away into a hole in the sand. I saw an iridescently blue beetle play dead when I moved the sand in front of it. There were more plants than I realized were there, in the middle of the day, they looked brown and hot and dead. Once the sun began to set around 6, the color palette shifted to soft greens and yellows.
Point being, the longer I spent time on the site, the more I learned about it. Being present allowed me to realize that there is indeed a flourishing and resilient ecosystem and the nuances of space, time, and place. These animals, insects, etc could be read about but informed me so much more when allowed to be witness to their lives. Mr. Lopez already understands what I have recently just learned. He articulates his observations, experiences, and research in a poetic manner. His way of writing is an inspiration.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Art Made for Non-Human Animals
The Dolphin Excursion-making a map
By Andrea Chase (06/07/10 00:37:55)
Related animal: Dolphin
The dolphin excursion out to Santa Barbara Channel was an extremely exciting experience. As we left the Harbor the day proved to be quite beautiful with not a cloud in the sky. It was an interesting ride weaving in and out of the notorious oil rigs parked in the middle of the channel. 45 minutes after departing we came upon a mega-pod of short-beaked dolphins. They were swimming throughout the water as far as the eye could see. We proceeded to go through various predetermined motions displaying differing levels of excitement, somewhat monitoring the dolphins reactions. The hydrophone's recording of the dolphin's noises was amazing. After following the dolphins for about 45 minutes we had to head home. I thought it would be quite interesting to track the motions of the boat with various symbols representing different stops, motions, meditations, and other interactions with the dolphins by using a gps satilite tracking system.
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (06/07/10 00:37:55)
Related animal: Dolphin
The dolphin excursion out to Santa Barbara Channel was an extremely exciting experience. As we left the Harbor the day proved to be quite beautiful with not a cloud in the sky. It was an interesting ride weaving in and out of the notorious oil rigs parked in the middle of the channel. 45 minutes after departing we came upon a mega-pod of short-beaked dolphins. They were swimming throughout the water as far as the eye could see. We proceeded to go through various predetermined motions displaying differing levels of excitement, somewhat monitoring the dolphins reactions. The hydrophone's recording of the dolphin's noises was amazing. After following the dolphins for about 45 minutes we had to head home. I thought it would be quite interesting to track the motions of the boat with various symbols representing different stops, motions, meditations, and other interactions with the dolphins by using a gps satilite tracking system.
|
The goats at Coal Oil Point Reserve
By Megan Mueller (05/31/14 17:23:13)
Related animal: Goat
The goats at Coal Oil Point are incredible and probably one of the highlights of my quarter. It was my first interaction with a living goat. My knowledge of them previous to our trip was from books or the internet. A couple months ago a video made its way through my Facebook circles that displayed a couple of goats playing with sheet metal. The sheet metal was bent into an arch and secured to the ground. The goats would take turns jumping up onto the top of the metal. From the video its was obvious they were a curious and sure footed animal with excellent balance.
The goats at Coal Oil Reserve were similar in their curiosity and athleticism. Cristina introduced us to the wonderful animals and even had Linda the goat demonstrate her ability to open the gate in exchange for a hug. After that, we were invited to visit with the goats in their fenced in areas. There seemed to be 2-3 adult female goats and 2-3 baby "kid" goats in each space. The goats were incredibly friendly. The adults would nibble on your shirt to get your attention. I petted each of them as much as possible. The kids were also quite friendly and enjoyed being petted. They gathered around us, stood on logs, and even got into some people's laps.
The goats were funny, playful, affectionate. They made vocalizations for attention. They had distinct personalities and obvious intelligence. For me, there is something exhilarating about standing with animals in their spaces. Confidence, posture, and movement all become heightened. The animals were in between a horse and dog in scale, so I found myself wanted to interact with them like dogs. I think a lot of us offered our hands to be smelled in the same way you would a dog. The goats didn't mind but it was clear the gesture didn't mean much to them. I found myself self conscious at first, wanting to make sure I was being respectful of their space. The goats were so friendly and interested that I was quickly comfortable in their space.
[Write Comment]
By Megan Mueller (05/31/14 17:23:13)
Related animal: Goat
The goats at Coal Oil Point are incredible and probably one of the highlights of my quarter. It was my first interaction with a living goat. My knowledge of them previous to our trip was from books or the internet. A couple months ago a video made its way through my Facebook circles that displayed a couple of goats playing with sheet metal. The sheet metal was bent into an arch and secured to the ground. The goats would take turns jumping up onto the top of the metal. From the video its was obvious they were a curious and sure footed animal with excellent balance.
The goats at Coal Oil Reserve were similar in their curiosity and athleticism. Cristina introduced us to the wonderful animals and even had Linda the goat demonstrate her ability to open the gate in exchange for a hug. After that, we were invited to visit with the goats in their fenced in areas. There seemed to be 2-3 adult female goats and 2-3 baby "kid" goats in each space. The goats were incredibly friendly. The adults would nibble on your shirt to get your attention. I petted each of them as much as possible. The kids were also quite friendly and enjoyed being petted. They gathered around us, stood on logs, and even got into some people's laps.
The goats were funny, playful, affectionate. They made vocalizations for attention. They had distinct personalities and obvious intelligence. For me, there is something exhilarating about standing with animals in their spaces. Confidence, posture, and movement all become heightened. The animals were in between a horse and dog in scale, so I found myself wanted to interact with them like dogs. I think a lot of us offered our hands to be smelled in the same way you would a dog. The goats didn't mind but it was clear the gesture didn't mean much to them. I found myself self conscious at first, wanting to make sure I was being respectful of their space. The goats were so friendly and interested that I was quickly comfortable in their space.
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Other: Interspecies Communication
The Human/Dolphin community
By Danusia Young (05/11/10 21:13:09)
Related animal: Rat
In chapter ten Nollman describes our connation to other species as one-world community. He also writes about the fields of mind that connect us to other non-human species. I found it very interesting that the morphic fields of social groups connect together members of the group even when they are many miles apart, and provide channels of communication through which organisms can stay in touch at a distance. Nollman gives example of Fred Stern connection with the dolphins using morhic field or telepathy. As the author points the dolphins told Stern about their coming that I found very interesting. I believe that some people are more responsive, more sensitive to this kind of connection then others. They know how to extend the morphic fields beyond their brain and use intention and attention to guide them toward better understanding the idea of one-word community and make a successful connection with other non-human species.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Danusia Young (05/11/10 21:13:09)
Related animal: Rat
In chapter ten Nollman describes our connation to other species as one-world community. He also writes about the fields of mind that connect us to other non-human species. I found it very interesting that the morphic fields of social groups connect together members of the group even when they are many miles apart, and provide channels of communication through which organisms can stay in touch at a distance. Nollman gives example of Fred Stern connection with the dolphins using morhic field or telepathy. As the author points the dolphins told Stern about their coming that I found very interesting. I believe that some people are more responsive, more sensitive to this kind of connection then others. They know how to extend the morphic fields beyond their brain and use intention and attention to guide them toward better understanding the idea of one-word community and make a successful connection with other non-human species.
Reflection: Animal Play Behavior
the lonely cat
By Lillian Shanahan (06/07/10 09:12:36)
Related animals: Cat, Stray Cat
The school year is over and I will be leaving the stray cat I have been stry to communicate with. It no longer runs from me but he wont let me with in 3 feet. When i move closer to him he doesn't run away he just slowly walk another 3 feet away.
then we just stand there as he meows to me. Even though I didn't get to a level of complete comfort with him, I was happy that he will stay around in my presence now.
I hope that he
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (06/07/10 09:12:36)
Related animals: Cat, Stray Cat
The school year is over and I will be leaving the stray cat I have been stry to communicate with. It no longer runs from me but he wont let me with in 3 feet. When i move closer to him he doesn't run away he just slowly walk another 3 feet away.
then we just stand there as he meows to me. Even though I didn't get to a level of complete comfort with him, I was happy that he will stay around in my presence now.
I hope that he
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
The man who talked to whales
By Lillian Shanahan (04/21/10 14:55:35)
Related animal: Turkey
I thought it was most interesting how he turned from experimenting , far removed like scientist into trying to work with the animal, figuring out what the animal wanted rather than putting a wall between themselves and just documenting what he witnessed. Or trying to make the Turkey communicate by human standards, he needed in a sense to try and communicate with the turkey by the turkey's own means.
Its also kinda funny that he came to this conclusion when the woman who owned the turkey was upset he was disturbing it bc she needed to plump it up for her dinner.
I liked how he said he felt more like a shaman than a scientist bc I have read part of a book called The Spell of the Sensuous and it talks about how Shamans are suppose to be in touch with nature and be able to communicate with that part of the world. They are the connector for the other people in the tribe. Rather than being a scientist who see the animal as a subject, different from himself and in no way tries to make connections.
He make a good point that musicians and artists should have the same access as scientists because I think that in a way artists are scientists and there is something to be learned form them that standard academic science would never dare to approach.
The second chapter talks about seeing animals as "peers, neighbors, mentors" which relates back to the first article, by saying that we should try and learn something from the animal not just objectively looking at the animal.
it was interesting to think about how there might be a specific protocol between humans and animals, that the animal is conscious of the relationship, and if that is so then the animal is capable of being an individual and have a personality.
that animals now may have a certain protocol in relations to humans because of the way their ancestors were treated and that fear/ or way of interaction has been passed down through the decades.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (04/21/10 14:55:35)
Related animal: Turkey
I thought it was most interesting how he turned from experimenting , far removed like scientist into trying to work with the animal, figuring out what the animal wanted rather than putting a wall between themselves and just documenting what he witnessed. Or trying to make the Turkey communicate by human standards, he needed in a sense to try and communicate with the turkey by the turkey's own means.
Its also kinda funny that he came to this conclusion when the woman who owned the turkey was upset he was disturbing it bc she needed to plump it up for her dinner.
I liked how he said he felt more like a shaman than a scientist bc I have read part of a book called The Spell of the Sensuous and it talks about how Shamans are suppose to be in touch with nature and be able to communicate with that part of the world. They are the connector for the other people in the tribe. Rather than being a scientist who see the animal as a subject, different from himself and in no way tries to make connections.
He make a good point that musicians and artists should have the same access as scientists because I think that in a way artists are scientists and there is something to be learned form them that standard academic science would never dare to approach.
The second chapter talks about seeing animals as "peers, neighbors, mentors" which relates back to the first article, by saying that we should try and learn something from the animal not just objectively looking at the animal.
it was interesting to think about how there might be a specific protocol between humans and animals, that the animal is conscious of the relationship, and if that is so then the animal is capable of being an individual and have a personality.
that animals now may have a certain protocol in relations to humans because of the way their ancestors were treated and that fear/ or way of interaction has been passed down through the decades.
Other: History/Philosophy - the Aesthetics of Non-Human Animals
the man who talks to whales
By Jenna Ferri (04/08/10 10:39:30)
Related animal: Turkey
In this introduction to how Nollman came to love collaborating with animals, he defines a very important distinction between science and collaboration. While scientists are using animals in the name of science to learn about them and how they function and thrive as beings, Nollman wants more to collaborate them. His goal is less about understanding how animals work but how he can work with them.
He spent many years working jobs he wasn’t interested in, but eventually found himself in Mexico unintentionally collaborating with a turkey. It was here he learned how to interpret the turkey’s thoughts when playing music. He was able to read the turkey’s interaction to the music and try to learn what made the turkey want to participate. He says it best by saying, “This relationship was not about observation, but rather, about participation” (12). Observation to him was too deeply rooted in science and he wanted to bond with the turkey.
Eventually the turkey began to collaborate back and would wait for him while he was gone. He had formed a new relationship and started to become really passionate about the opportunities that could unfold if all humans strive to collaborate with nature.
[Write Comment]
By Jenna Ferri (04/08/10 10:39:30)
Related animal: Turkey
In this introduction to how Nollman came to love collaborating with animals, he defines a very important distinction between science and collaboration. While scientists are using animals in the name of science to learn about them and how they function and thrive as beings, Nollman wants more to collaborate them. His goal is less about understanding how animals work but how he can work with them.
He spent many years working jobs he wasn’t interested in, but eventually found himself in Mexico unintentionally collaborating with a turkey. It was here he learned how to interpret the turkey’s thoughts when playing music. He was able to read the turkey’s interaction to the music and try to learn what made the turkey want to participate. He says it best by saying, “This relationship was not about observation, but rather, about participation” (12). Observation to him was too deeply rooted in science and he wanted to bond with the turkey.
Eventually the turkey began to collaborate back and would wait for him while he was gone. He had formed a new relationship and started to become really passionate about the opportunities that could unfold if all humans strive to collaborate with nature.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
The Man Who Talks to Whales
By Heather Sielke (04/12/10 19:16:58)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish, Lion, Turkey, Whale
In chapter 1 of "The Man Who Talks to Whales" by Jim Nollman I found it very interesting that the Turkey was not gaining weight because he was participating with Nollman. That the turkey was actually losing weight and that the owner was getting angry is funny to me. I would never think that playing music with a turkey would make it lose weight.
In chapter 4 I found it interesting when Nollman talked about the relationship between the people and animals and how that differed from relationships between animals and other animals. Like the relationship between the lion and the wildebeest and how at mealtime the wildebeest would know to run and be frightened but during other times when the lion was not feeding that they could be near each other. I have seen the symbiotic relationship between a anemone and a clown fish in my own tank. In a tank a clown fish does not always require a anemone and a anemone does not require a clown fish to survive. Although this is true I wanted to see this relationship. At meal time the clown fish would eat all it wanted and then it would feed the anemone and my clown fish would feed the anemone quite roughly.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Heather Sielke (04/12/10 19:16:58)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish, Lion, Turkey, Whale
In chapter 1 of "The Man Who Talks to Whales" by Jim Nollman I found it very interesting that the Turkey was not gaining weight because he was participating with Nollman. That the turkey was actually losing weight and that the owner was getting angry is funny to me. I would never think that playing music with a turkey would make it lose weight.
In chapter 4 I found it interesting when Nollman talked about the relationship between the people and animals and how that differed from relationships between animals and other animals. Like the relationship between the lion and the wildebeest and how at mealtime the wildebeest would know to run and be frightened but during other times when the lion was not feeding that they could be near each other. I have seen the symbiotic relationship between a anemone and a clown fish in my own tank. In a tank a clown fish does not always require a anemone and a anemone does not require a clown fish to survive. Although this is true I wanted to see this relationship. At meal time the clown fish would eat all it wanted and then it would feed the anemone and my clown fish would feed the anemone quite roughly.
the man who talks to whales
By Jennifer Lee Lin (04/22/10 20:33:51)
Related animals: Rooster, Whale
I think what Nollman means when he says he wants to learn "from animals not about them" if you're learning about something, it is objectified. I don't see the subject anything more than just an object to be observed. When I try to learn from them, there is sentimentally, there is a connection and relation, because humans must learn how to coexist with other animals. We are the sole species to destroy and kill so much in the world. All animals have learned to live with eachother in harmony, and therefore but learning how they do so by putting ourselves in their place, on their level instead of standing on pedestal can only bring good results.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Jennifer Lee Lin (04/22/10 20:33:51)
Related animals: Rooster, Whale
I think what Nollman means when he says he wants to learn "from animals not about them" if you're learning about something, it is objectified. I don't see the subject anything more than just an object to be observed. When I try to learn from them, there is sentimentally, there is a connection and relation, because humans must learn how to coexist with other animals. We are the sole species to destroy and kill so much in the world. All animals have learned to live with eachother in harmony, and therefore but learning how they do so by putting ourselves in their place, on their level instead of standing on pedestal can only bring good results.
The Man Who Talks to Whales
By Natalie Croak (06/09/13 12:59:13)
The first chapter of "The Man who Talks to Whales" went into the author's relationship with animals and how this changed as he got older. Ever since I was little I have been fascinated by animals. My mom told me that when I was a toddler she'd let me explore the backyard and I would always bring worms and spiders over to show her (which she definitely did not appreciate). As I got older I continued to love animals, capturing snakes and lizards to watch and keep as pets for a day before letting them go. Nollman describes wanting to learn from animals, not just learn about them. I agree with this because I think that the more that we learn from animals the more we learn about ourselves and how the world operates.
The fourth chapter goes into what Nollman describes as interspecies protocol. One example of this is the lions and bushmen in Africa have an understanding of when it is each groups turn to use the watering hole. I thought that this was really interesting because I never learned about this type of protocol in any of my biology classes. However I think that this type of protocol would only occur when there is a resource that both groups need and there is no shortage of it.
[Write Comment]
By Natalie Croak (06/09/13 12:59:13)
The first chapter of "The Man who Talks to Whales" went into the author's relationship with animals and how this changed as he got older. Ever since I was little I have been fascinated by animals. My mom told me that when I was a toddler she'd let me explore the backyard and I would always bring worms and spiders over to show her (which she definitely did not appreciate). As I got older I continued to love animals, capturing snakes and lizards to watch and keep as pets for a day before letting them go. Nollman describes wanting to learn from animals, not just learn about them. I agree with this because I think that the more that we learn from animals the more we learn about ourselves and how the world operates.
The fourth chapter goes into what Nollman describes as interspecies protocol. One example of this is the lions and bushmen in Africa have an understanding of when it is each groups turn to use the watering hole. I thought that this was really interesting because I never learned about this type of protocol in any of my biology classes. However I think that this type of protocol would only occur when there is a resource that both groups need and there is no shortage of it.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
The Man Who Talks to Whales - Response
By Mona Luo (04/21/14 00:30:45)
Related animal: Turkey
Chapter 1: The Turkey Trot
I found myself quite torn by the reading this week. Part of me wanted to dismiss the author’s claims for being too outlandish and unfounded, while another part of me agreed heartily with a lot of what he had to say. I have never found myself to be spiritual so phrases like “mystical resonance” set off all sorts of alarms in my head. However, from the concluding section of the first chapter it seems that Jim Nollman is quite self-aware and has gone through his own struggle balancing the scientific with the spiritual. Figuring out how to go about an interspecies collaboration has had me quite stumped in these past weeks, but this text was quite illuminating. The idea of focusing on the individuality of the animal and its participation (rather than subjugation) seems to be the key to communication and collaboration. After reading about his turkey collaboration I wondered if the same thing could be done in reverse. Instead of the animal responding to the human’s trigger note, what if the human responded to a particular animal vocalization? Could animals be enticed into creating a collaboration with humans? In some ways I think I have done this with the cats I have been around. When they meow I will meow back, or say something to them. I have one particular cat that seems to like to carry on “conversations”. If I only responded to them if they meowed in a certain way, would I find that they meowed more or less in that particular manner? Would they start experimenting to see what other vocalizations would elicit a response?
Chapter 2: Interspecies Protocol
In this second chapter I have honed in on the particular line: “Even the most dangerous predator is accorded status within the status quo, and so deserves certain rights to live and enjoy good health”. Humans are quite biased when it comes to animals. Many people are more than ready to assign good and evil to animals (often unconsciously) when it really comes down to nature and survival. As was brought up by Deke Weaver after the performance last week, we tend to sympathize more with animals our size. We also love cute things. There are all sorts of petitions to save the pandas or help baby seals, but when was the last time you saw anything on the giant Gippsland earthworm (earthworms that get up to 3 meters)? Not only should fierce predators be allowed to live and enjoy good health, but “ugly” creepy-crawlies as well. Many insect species will probably go extinct before anyone has even had a chance to identify them. Nollman claims that, “if a modern human being is to accept the concept of protocol, he or she must also accept the idea that animals are possessed of individuality and distinct personalities”. However, certain “simpler” organisms do not necessarily possess individuality, or at least it is not apparent. For instance, insects. Does that mean that they are not deserving of a protocol as well? That seems a little bit biased.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Mona Luo (04/21/14 00:30:45)
Related animal: Turkey
Chapter 1: The Turkey Trot
I found myself quite torn by the reading this week. Part of me wanted to dismiss the author’s claims for being too outlandish and unfounded, while another part of me agreed heartily with a lot of what he had to say. I have never found myself to be spiritual so phrases like “mystical resonance” set off all sorts of alarms in my head. However, from the concluding section of the first chapter it seems that Jim Nollman is quite self-aware and has gone through his own struggle balancing the scientific with the spiritual. Figuring out how to go about an interspecies collaboration has had me quite stumped in these past weeks, but this text was quite illuminating. The idea of focusing on the individuality of the animal and its participation (rather than subjugation) seems to be the key to communication and collaboration. After reading about his turkey collaboration I wondered if the same thing could be done in reverse. Instead of the animal responding to the human’s trigger note, what if the human responded to a particular animal vocalization? Could animals be enticed into creating a collaboration with humans? In some ways I think I have done this with the cats I have been around. When they meow I will meow back, or say something to them. I have one particular cat that seems to like to carry on “conversations”. If I only responded to them if they meowed in a certain way, would I find that they meowed more or less in that particular manner? Would they start experimenting to see what other vocalizations would elicit a response?
Chapter 2: Interspecies Protocol
In this second chapter I have honed in on the particular line: “Even the most dangerous predator is accorded status within the status quo, and so deserves certain rights to live and enjoy good health”. Humans are quite biased when it comes to animals. Many people are more than ready to assign good and evil to animals (often unconsciously) when it really comes down to nature and survival. As was brought up by Deke Weaver after the performance last week, we tend to sympathize more with animals our size. We also love cute things. There are all sorts of petitions to save the pandas or help baby seals, but when was the last time you saw anything on the giant Gippsland earthworm (earthworms that get up to 3 meters)? Not only should fierce predators be allowed to live and enjoy good health, but “ugly” creepy-crawlies as well. Many insect species will probably go extinct before anyone has even had a chance to identify them. Nollman claims that, “if a modern human being is to accept the concept of protocol, he or she must also accept the idea that animals are possessed of individuality and distinct personalities”. However, certain “simpler” organisms do not necessarily possess individuality, or at least it is not apparent. For instance, insects. Does that mean that they are not deserving of a protocol as well? That seems a little bit biased.
The Man Who Talks to Whales by Jim Nollman
By Megan Mueller (05/23/14 16:19:38)
This class has been fascinating in the sense that every person has an opinion of the place of animals in our lives and in the world. I don't think I've ever realized the extent before. I am by no means an expert on animals, all of my information is based off of personal experience, internet videos, and Cesear Milan's tv show. But somehow I still feel very well informed and very connected to animals. If I took that same equation and applied it to math or physics, I don't think I would have the same confidence. So I guess what I'm trying to say, is like religion, every person has some sort of belief system (informed or not) about animals.
Nollman's essay presents an intriguing case for animals to be learned from instead of learned about. He articulates the limitations of careers in animal field that he was exposed to as a teenager as well as his surprising reconnection with animals as an adult musician. I respect his sense of play and observation to engage a turkey with sound.
The difference between observation and participation relies on fluidity and dynamic wisdom over traditional data points. The goals are different.
It is fascinating to read Nollman's dialogue around tone and audience. His self awareness and ability to rewrite are admirable. I understand that this way of thinking is not something I've exposed to much in my education and I wonder why not? I find value in his approach.
[Write Comment]
By Megan Mueller (05/23/14 16:19:38)
This class has been fascinating in the sense that every person has an opinion of the place of animals in our lives and in the world. I don't think I've ever realized the extent before. I am by no means an expert on animals, all of my information is based off of personal experience, internet videos, and Cesear Milan's tv show. But somehow I still feel very well informed and very connected to animals. If I took that same equation and applied it to math or physics, I don't think I would have the same confidence. So I guess what I'm trying to say, is like religion, every person has some sort of belief system (informed or not) about animals.
Nollman's essay presents an intriguing case for animals to be learned from instead of learned about. He articulates the limitations of careers in animal field that he was exposed to as a teenager as well as his surprising reconnection with animals as an adult musician. I respect his sense of play and observation to engage a turkey with sound.
The difference between observation and participation relies on fluidity and dynamic wisdom over traditional data points. The goals are different.
It is fascinating to read Nollman's dialogue around tone and audience. His self awareness and ability to rewrite are admirable. I understand that this way of thinking is not something I've exposed to much in my education and I wonder why not? I find value in his approach.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
The Man Who Talks to Whales Chapter 1 and 4
By Serena Zahler (04/07/10 18:12:59)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish
Chapter 1:
In Chapter 1, Nollman discusses interspecies music versus interspecies communication. Interspecies communication moves beyond aesthetics into information transmission and understanding. Nollman believes there is one fatal flaw in experimentation because as humans we are ethnocentric and species-centric. We believe in order for successful communication between animals and humans, animals must “act just a little more like a human being.” In Art 130 we should strive to communicate on the level of the animal and not focus on our own communication as superior. Nollman explains, that for these interactions to be truly considered communication then we should communicate based upon mutual respect to create an open-ended dialogue.
Chapter 4:
In Chapter 4, Nollman defines an interspecies protocol, a code of ethics for animal collaboration, which already exists in the animal kingdom, but that humans can use to work on an even playing field. “Interspecies protocol may thus be understood to mean the forms and manners that any species conforms to when relating to another species” (51). One example of this is how sea anemones offer protection for clownfish, while clown fish bring their leftovers to the anemone. Growing up watching this symbiotic relationship I wan to use this relationship as a foundation for my collaborations during this quarter.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Serena Zahler (04/07/10 18:12:59)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish
Chapter 1:
In Chapter 1, Nollman discusses interspecies music versus interspecies communication. Interspecies communication moves beyond aesthetics into information transmission and understanding. Nollman believes there is one fatal flaw in experimentation because as humans we are ethnocentric and species-centric. We believe in order for successful communication between animals and humans, animals must “act just a little more like a human being.” In Art 130 we should strive to communicate on the level of the animal and not focus on our own communication as superior. Nollman explains, that for these interactions to be truly considered communication then we should communicate based upon mutual respect to create an open-ended dialogue.
Chapter 4:
In Chapter 4, Nollman defines an interspecies protocol, a code of ethics for animal collaboration, which already exists in the animal kingdom, but that humans can use to work on an even playing field. “Interspecies protocol may thus be understood to mean the forms and manners that any species conforms to when relating to another species” (51). One example of this is how sea anemones offer protection for clownfish, while clown fish bring their leftovers to the anemone. Growing up watching this symbiotic relationship I wan to use this relationship as a foundation for my collaborations during this quarter.
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
The Man Who Talks to Whales Reflection
By Erik Shalat (04/15/13 13:26:18)
Related animal: Bird
Chapter one of Jim Nollman’s book, The Man Who Talks to Whales, begins with a view into what led Jim to make his ground breaking work communicating with animals. He believes in our youth it is much easier to relate animals to people, the apparent social gap between the two isn’t as strict. However, by the age of sixteen he had still retained
the sense that animals received an unfair presence in society; animals exhibit traits and characteristics that make them more than just mindless beasts running purely on instinct. Animals can feel joy and pain and sorrow and much more. One thing I found particularly interesting what that Jim found anthropomorphism to be offensive since it suggests that the only way to make animals relatable is to make them virtually just humans. Eventually Nollman moved to Mexico where he first started experimenting with music and animal interactivity, inspired by a neighbor’s turkey that would resonate gobbles with his flute playing. This is where his story becomes a bit more metaphysical and less grounded in substance.
Chapter four, Interspecies Protocol, takes us deep into his ongoing journey past the initial experiments with the turkeys. Interspecies Protocol is a sort of mutually understood agreement between animals and humans. Having an interspecies protocol is a symbol of animal respect, as it shows that there is a certain amount of control being in the animal’s control; they are not forced to buckle under human whims. His first example of protocol is with the Bushmen of the Kalahari desert, who would schedule trips to a watering hole in an effort to avoid conflicts with lions. When ranchers were introduced to the desert they started intruding on the lion’s water hole time and this disrupted the balance leading to the extinction of the bushmen.
[Write Comment]
By Erik Shalat (04/15/13 13:26:18)
Related animal: Bird
Chapter one of Jim Nollman’s book, The Man Who Talks to Whales, begins with a view into what led Jim to make his ground breaking work communicating with animals. He believes in our youth it is much easier to relate animals to people, the apparent social gap between the two isn’t as strict. However, by the age of sixteen he had still retained
the sense that animals received an unfair presence in society; animals exhibit traits and characteristics that make them more than just mindless beasts running purely on instinct. Animals can feel joy and pain and sorrow and much more. One thing I found particularly interesting what that Jim found anthropomorphism to be offensive since it suggests that the only way to make animals relatable is to make them virtually just humans. Eventually Nollman moved to Mexico where he first started experimenting with music and animal interactivity, inspired by a neighbor’s turkey that would resonate gobbles with his flute playing. This is where his story becomes a bit more metaphysical and less grounded in substance.
Chapter four, Interspecies Protocol, takes us deep into his ongoing journey past the initial experiments with the turkeys. Interspecies Protocol is a sort of mutually understood agreement between animals and humans. Having an interspecies protocol is a symbol of animal respect, as it shows that there is a certain amount of control being in the animal’s control; they are not forced to buckle under human whims. His first example of protocol is with the Bushmen of the Kalahari desert, who would schedule trips to a watering hole in an effort to avoid conflicts with lions. When ranchers were introduced to the desert they started intruding on the lion’s water hole time and this disrupted the balance leading to the extinction of the bushmen.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
The Man Who Talks to Whales Response #1
By Marissa Gravett (04/17/13 23:20:03)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish
In Chapter 1, Nollman describes his relationship with animals and how it changed as he grew up over the years. This chapter really made me think about my relationship with animals and how it has changed from when I was a young girl because I have always felt mine to be unique. I thought that it was very interesting how he stated that he “did not necessarily want to learn about them, so much as [he] wanted to learn from them.” Seeing as I have been affiliated with many jobs and volunteer programs involving animals, I contemplated whether or not I do these things because I want to expand my knowledge about them or if I want to learn from them. This made me question my reasoning for choosing to spend my time with animals in my jobs and internships. Although I did not come to a definite conclusion, I have a feeling that my intentions are to learn about the animals so that I can better understand them so they can eventually teach me more about myself. I really enjoyed reading about Nollman’s journey to find meaning in his relationships with animals over the years in this first chapter.
In Chapter 4, Nollman explains the different “protocols” between animal-human species such as lions and bushmen and clownfish and anemone. He defines interspecies protocol as the forms and manners (and defense procedures) that any species conforms to when relating to another species. I thought his discussion of the clownfish and anemone relationship was exceptionally interesting. I have always been taught that their relationship was a symbiosis where both organisms have a physical codependence that is advantageous to both species. Nollman describes their relationship as more of a protocol, which is more of a social behavior that is established between the individuals. I had never thought of their relationship in this way, so it was interesting to think about these two species’ interactions from a different perspective. We tend to group animal relationships as characteristics of the species as a whole, but as Nollman argues, it is very important to look at the relations between individuals
[Write Comment]
By Marissa Gravett (04/17/13 23:20:03)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish
In Chapter 1, Nollman describes his relationship with animals and how it changed as he grew up over the years. This chapter really made me think about my relationship with animals and how it has changed from when I was a young girl because I have always felt mine to be unique. I thought that it was very interesting how he stated that he “did not necessarily want to learn about them, so much as [he] wanted to learn from them.” Seeing as I have been affiliated with many jobs and volunteer programs involving animals, I contemplated whether or not I do these things because I want to expand my knowledge about them or if I want to learn from them. This made me question my reasoning for choosing to spend my time with animals in my jobs and internships. Although I did not come to a definite conclusion, I have a feeling that my intentions are to learn about the animals so that I can better understand them so they can eventually teach me more about myself. I really enjoyed reading about Nollman’s journey to find meaning in his relationships with animals over the years in this first chapter.
In Chapter 4, Nollman explains the different “protocols” between animal-human species such as lions and bushmen and clownfish and anemone. He defines interspecies protocol as the forms and manners (and defense procedures) that any species conforms to when relating to another species. I thought his discussion of the clownfish and anemone relationship was exceptionally interesting. I have always been taught that their relationship was a symbiosis where both organisms have a physical codependence that is advantageous to both species. Nollman describes their relationship as more of a protocol, which is more of a social behavior that is established between the individuals. I had never thought of their relationship in this way, so it was interesting to think about these two species’ interactions from a different perspective. We tend to group animal relationships as characteristics of the species as a whole, but as Nollman argues, it is very important to look at the relations between individuals
[Write Comment]
The Man Who Talks to Whales: Chapter 1 and 4
By Royce Chun (04/08/10 12:32:02)
Chapter 1:
In chapter 1, Nollman talks about his interspecies experience with a turkey. It wasn’t so much interspecies communication as it was more interspecies collaboration. Through the use of a flute and playing a certain note, the turkey would gobble on key. On some days, that note to bring about the gobble could be a much different note than other days. I find this interesting in that although they are not really communicating anything with one another, but have found a way to interact with one another. I can also relate to this because I have come across many cats and dogs owned by friends and family that react to music or certain sounds.
Chapter 4:
In chapter 4, Nollman starts off by talking about how Bushmen and lions once worked together instead of against one another. Instead of simply killing each other in order to obtain their wants or needs, they found a way to work around conflict. As time passed, man found the need to take over everything despite the harmony that existed before. He also discusses the symbiotic relationship between sea anemone and clownfish. The clownfish require protection from the anemones because they are vulnerable to predators and are poor swimmers. In return, the clownfish eat within the anemones and the anemones feed off of the leftovers. I found Nollman’s segment on how the most fearful survive because as far as humans are concerned, it’s quite true. He talks about how wild bears who wander closer to human camps are more like to get shot and killed than those bears who are less prone to approach humans. It’s also true on the humans’ standpoint as it can be said that humans are more likely to shoot a bear out of fear than if they don’t believe them to be of any threat.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Royce Chun (04/08/10 12:32:02)
Chapter 1:
In chapter 1, Nollman talks about his interspecies experience with a turkey. It wasn’t so much interspecies communication as it was more interspecies collaboration. Through the use of a flute and playing a certain note, the turkey would gobble on key. On some days, that note to bring about the gobble could be a much different note than other days. I find this interesting in that although they are not really communicating anything with one another, but have found a way to interact with one another. I can also relate to this because I have come across many cats and dogs owned by friends and family that react to music or certain sounds.
Chapter 4:
In chapter 4, Nollman starts off by talking about how Bushmen and lions once worked together instead of against one another. Instead of simply killing each other in order to obtain their wants or needs, they found a way to work around conflict. As time passed, man found the need to take over everything despite the harmony that existed before. He also discusses the symbiotic relationship between sea anemone and clownfish. The clownfish require protection from the anemones because they are vulnerable to predators and are poor swimmers. In return, the clownfish eat within the anemones and the anemones feed off of the leftovers. I found Nollman’s segment on how the most fearful survive because as far as humans are concerned, it’s quite true. He talks about how wild bears who wander closer to human camps are more like to get shot and killed than those bears who are less prone to approach humans. It’s also true on the humans’ standpoint as it can be said that humans are more likely to shoot a bear out of fear than if they don’t believe them to be of any threat.
The Man Who Talks To Whales: Nollman's Visit, Turkey Trot, Interspecies Collab.
By Alli Harrod (04/09/10 21:02:07)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish, Grizzly Bear, Lion, Whale
"The Turkey Trot" and "Interspecies Protocol" are two sections from Jim Nollman’s novel "The Man Who Talks To Whales" that discuss the difference between studying about animals and collaborating with animals. During Nollman’s discussion in person, he epitomizes the distinction between studying and collaborating as “objectivity” and “subjectivity.” Nollman argues that scientific study of animals is objective because it is based on observations while interspecies collaboration views an animal as an individual rather than an entity that is a part of a larger group. He claims that failing to see animals as individuals is, what we have discussed thus far in "Interspecies Collaboration," “speciesism/speciesist” because denying an animal their individuality means that one assumes that every animal in any given species is exactly the same as all of the others. Furthermore, speciesism places one species above another. Clearly, just like humans, not all animals have exhibited the same social/environmental conditions, so to assume that they are not individuals is therefore absurd. In "The Turkey Trot," Nollman states, “I did not want to learn about them [animals,] so much as I wanted to learn from them [animals]” and with his collaboration with whales and turkeys, Nollman has learned much about members of those species’s realms of life through music.
In his personal discussion in class he mentioned that he felt like the whales communicated with him when they changed their pitch to mock his and repeated the same ‘notes’ back to him. He argues that scientific objectivity can not even begin to describe his experiences with whales and turkeys because it is unquantifiable information – Nollman spent many years interacting with whales, for example, and learning about their culture. The inability of those who do not view animals as subjects, Nollman argues, keeps them from understanding animals, and species(es) as a whole because they are not willing to put in time like Nollman has, to find a quality connection and do not view animals as collaborators. In "Interspecies Protocol" he uses the relation between the Kalahari Bushmen and lions to exemplify and highlight the history of human/animal bonds and the result of the destruction of those bonds. He describes that the peaceful relationship of Bushmen and lions through out time changed to a relationship of “fear and disrespect” once ranching was introduced and the Bushmen’s lifestyle changed (50). He claims that before the introduction of ranching, lions and Bushmen had a mutual agreement to respect each others’ spaces and never squabbled, but both lions and Bushmen were killed and the result yielded “no interspecies protocol” (51). Nollman’s experience/insights on interspecies protocol and subjectivity help interspecies collaborators like ourselves be more conscientious about our responsibilities as collaborators in the way we treat other species and how we view them in relation to ourselves.
[Write Comment]
By Alli Harrod (04/09/10 21:02:07)
Related animals: Anemone, Clownfish, Grizzly Bear, Lion, Whale
"The Turkey Trot" and "Interspecies Protocol" are two sections from Jim Nollman’s novel "The Man Who Talks To Whales" that discuss the difference between studying about animals and collaborating with animals. During Nollman’s discussion in person, he epitomizes the distinction between studying and collaborating as “objectivity” and “subjectivity.” Nollman argues that scientific study of animals is objective because it is based on observations while interspecies collaboration views an animal as an individual rather than an entity that is a part of a larger group. He claims that failing to see animals as individuals is, what we have discussed thus far in "Interspecies Collaboration," “speciesism/speciesist” because denying an animal their individuality means that one assumes that every animal in any given species is exactly the same as all of the others. Furthermore, speciesism places one species above another. Clearly, just like humans, not all animals have exhibited the same social/environmental conditions, so to assume that they are not individuals is therefore absurd. In "The Turkey Trot," Nollman states, “I did not want to learn about them [animals,] so much as I wanted to learn from them [animals]” and with his collaboration with whales and turkeys, Nollman has learned much about members of those species’s realms of life through music.
In his personal discussion in class he mentioned that he felt like the whales communicated with him when they changed their pitch to mock his and repeated the same ‘notes’ back to him. He argues that scientific objectivity can not even begin to describe his experiences with whales and turkeys because it is unquantifiable information – Nollman spent many years interacting with whales, for example, and learning about their culture. The inability of those who do not view animals as subjects, Nollman argues, keeps them from understanding animals, and species(es) as a whole because they are not willing to put in time like Nollman has, to find a quality connection and do not view animals as collaborators. In "Interspecies Protocol" he uses the relation between the Kalahari Bushmen and lions to exemplify and highlight the history of human/animal bonds and the result of the destruction of those bonds. He describes that the peaceful relationship of Bushmen and lions through out time changed to a relationship of “fear and disrespect” once ranching was introduced and the Bushmen’s lifestyle changed (50). He claims that before the introduction of ranching, lions and Bushmen had a mutual agreement to respect each others’ spaces and never squabbled, but both lions and Bushmen were killed and the result yielded “no interspecies protocol” (51). Nollman’s experience/insights on interspecies protocol and subjectivity help interspecies collaborators like ourselves be more conscientious about our responsibilities as collaborators in the way we treat other species and how we view them in relation to ourselves.
[Write Comment]
The Man Who Talks to Whales: Response to Ch. 1 - The Turkey Trot
By Jessica Oropesa (04/08/10 03:20:49)
Related animal: Turkey
This first chapter, by Jim Nollman, was about his fascination about animals at a young age and how that fascination evolved into certain actions that involved his collaboration with animals. He explains his early thoughts on animal and human interactions and how he viewed animals as important beings in his life. He expressed opposing views of the treatment of animals - such as zoology's perception of humans as higher beings over other animals. I really liked Nollman's way of thinking when it comes to animal relationships. He stated that he experienced animals from a place of respect, a characteristic that does not seem very common within the general public. I found that he made a very good point about the role of a zoologist and how their work benefits humans, not the animals. He states that he "did not necessarily want to learn about them, so much as [he] wanted to learn from them."
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Jessica Oropesa (04/08/10 03:20:49)
Related animal: Turkey
This first chapter, by Jim Nollman, was about his fascination about animals at a young age and how that fascination evolved into certain actions that involved his collaboration with animals. He explains his early thoughts on animal and human interactions and how he viewed animals as important beings in his life. He expressed opposing views of the treatment of animals - such as zoology's perception of humans as higher beings over other animals. I really liked Nollman's way of thinking when it comes to animal relationships. He stated that he experienced animals from a place of respect, a characteristic that does not seem very common within the general public. I found that he made a very good point about the role of a zoologist and how their work benefits humans, not the animals. He states that he "did not necessarily want to learn about them, so much as [he] wanted to learn from them."
The Man Who Talks to Whales: Response to Ch. 4 - Interspecies Protocol
By Jessica Oropesa (04/08/10 03:47:14)
Related animals: Anemone, Bear, Coyote, Fish, Lion
In this chapter, Jim Nollman discusses the relationship of human and animal. The relationships he describes are not about interspecies relationships, but of the individual relationships between a member of one species and a member of another. The example that he uses to introduce the topic is about the Bushmen and lions and how through the years of cohabiting with one another, the lions and the Bushmen came to mutual agreements of conduct with each other. This relationship is what Nollman calls, "Interspecies Protocol," which are the understood and unwritten rules between the members of two or more separate species. His text pushes me to think about animals in a revised way - to treat them with more respect and to view them as peers, not just untamed creatures that we cohabit the earth with.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Jessica Oropesa (04/08/10 03:47:14)
Related animals: Anemone, Bear, Coyote, Fish, Lion
In this chapter, Jim Nollman discusses the relationship of human and animal. The relationships he describes are not about interspecies relationships, but of the individual relationships between a member of one species and a member of another. The example that he uses to introduce the topic is about the Bushmen and lions and how through the years of cohabiting with one another, the lions and the Bushmen came to mutual agreements of conduct with each other. This relationship is what Nollman calls, "Interspecies Protocol," which are the understood and unwritten rules between the members of two or more separate species. His text pushes me to think about animals in a revised way - to treat them with more respect and to view them as peers, not just untamed creatures that we cohabit the earth with.
Other: Art Related to Animal Rights
The Moralist
By Madison Wanamaker (05/06/13 21:51:35)
Related animal: Human
After reading Steve Baker's, "The idiot, the Voyeur and the Moralist" from "Artist Animal (Posthumanities)", questions of morality and philosophy in art, and in other disciplines, seem to arise. Below are my person responses to questions regarding the reading.
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
Baker believes, in short, that these "pieces" need to be looked at case by case, and that you can not categorize all of these "artist" as a non-ethical group. There are collaborators and there are those using animals as tools.
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
Baker once again believes that the pieces need to be looked at individually, because though some seem un-ethical at first they may stimulate a discussion that leads to awareness, and is ultimately positive.
3. What is some of Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
Baker believes that the Rat Piece is not so much a collaboration between the artist and the animal, but more of the artist using the rat as a tool to send a message. Putting the Rat Piece in the same category as respectful and true collaboration with animals is a disservice.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/Why?
I think that Baker is pointing out that though it is tragic that a rat was burned and a fish died in a blender, we can acknowledge that it is tragic and that in it's self is a kind of positive moral realization.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artist to work with/use animals?
He believes we can regardless of that fact that some do it unresponsibly.
6. Do you think artist have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
I think that artists should have no more a responsibility then any one else "using" animals, however it would seem a responsibility is thrust upon them. Artists are traditionally depicting things that are worth looking at or experiencing over and over aging. I think audiences feel betrayed by art when it does not meet the moral standard.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
I think that Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter means that art should not be less valid then then science or consumption, therefore it should not have higher standards. I do agree that art should be as valid as science or anything else. However, in some situations food is not accessible enough to choose or not choose to eat animal products, and those animals may be treated unfairly, like food or possessions. I believe that in those situations the animals lives are not respected, but it is justified by the fact they were needed to keep someone alive. Similarly I find scientific research done on animals that is beneficial to the species to be moral even if it may hurt the individual. I think that animal relationships need to be judged on there morality on a one on one basis... though it is ironic that animal cruelty in art gains so much attention when most people eat horribly treated animals every day.
[Write Comment]
By Madison Wanamaker (05/06/13 21:51:35)
Related animal: Human
After reading Steve Baker's, "The idiot, the Voyeur and the Moralist" from "Artist Animal (Posthumanities)", questions of morality and philosophy in art, and in other disciplines, seem to arise. Below are my person responses to questions regarding the reading.
1. What does Steve Baker think of Randy Malamud and others who criticize artists working with animals of being non-ethical?
Baker believes, in short, that these "pieces" need to be looked at case by case, and that you can not categorize all of these "artist" as a non-ethical group. There are collaborators and there are those using animals as tools.
2. According to Baker, what is the issue with looking at the ethical issues of an artwork before making a proper reading of it?
Baker once again believes that the pieces need to be looked at individually, because though some seem un-ethical at first they may stimulate a discussion that leads to awareness, and is ultimately positive.
3. What is some of Baker's criticism of the Rat Piece and Helena?
Baker believes that the Rat Piece is not so much a collaboration between the artist and the animal, but more of the artist using the rat as a tool to send a message. Putting the Rat Piece in the same category as respectful and true collaboration with animals is a disservice.
4. Is Baker defending the Rat Piece and Helena? How/Why?
I think that Baker is pointing out that though it is tragic that a rat was burned and a fish died in a blender, we can acknowledge that it is tragic and that in it's self is a kind of positive moral realization.
5. According to Baker, can we trust artist to work with/use animals?
He believes we can regardless of that fact that some do it unresponsibly.
6. Do you think artist have ethical responsibilities? Why/why not? What are those ethical responsibilities in regards to working with animals?
I think that artists should have no more a responsibility then any one else "using" animals, however it would seem a responsibility is thrust upon them. Artists are traditionally depicting things that are worth looking at or experiencing over and over aging. I think audiences feel betrayed by art when it does not meet the moral standard.
7. What does Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter mean when she says it is impossible to ask if it is ethical to use animals in art without also asking if it is ethical to use them in science and for food? Do you agree/disagree?
I think that Bryndis Snaebjornsdotter means that art should not be less valid then then science or consumption, therefore it should not have higher standards. I do agree that art should be as valid as science or anything else. However, in some situations food is not accessible enough to choose or not choose to eat animal products, and those animals may be treated unfairly, like food or possessions. I believe that in those situations the animals lives are not respected, but it is justified by the fact they were needed to keep someone alive. Similarly I find scientific research done on animals that is beneficial to the species to be moral even if it may hurt the individual. I think that animal relationships need to be judged on there morality on a one on one basis... though it is ironic that animal cruelty in art gains so much attention when most people eat horribly treated animals every day.
[Write Comment]
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
The Postmodern Animal
By Michelle Safley (04/22/10 08:29:43)
The most interesting part about The Postmodern Animal, "Fear of the Familiar," was the different ways in which one can classify an animal. The various categories come up when Deleuze, Guattari, and Leach's views are discussed. There appear to be three main types of categories: the first consists of animals that are admired and tend to operate away from humans in packs, the wolf being an obvious example. The second group consists of State animals, those that have some kind of fixed symbolic meaning for humans alone. An eagle might be a good example of such an animal. The last category consists of pets, which bring with them ideas of sentimentality and Oedipal issues; this category invites us to regress and draw attention to ourselves in a very narcissistic way, even just by saying "my pet" or "my dog". I find it interesting how different the categories are, and I never stopped to consider that having a pet was narcissistic in any way before.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Michelle Safley (04/22/10 08:29:43)
The most interesting part about The Postmodern Animal, "Fear of the Familiar," was the different ways in which one can classify an animal. The various categories come up when Deleuze, Guattari, and Leach's views are discussed. There appear to be three main types of categories: the first consists of animals that are admired and tend to operate away from humans in packs, the wolf being an obvious example. The second group consists of State animals, those that have some kind of fixed symbolic meaning for humans alone. An eagle might be a good example of such an animal. The last category consists of pets, which bring with them ideas of sentimentality and Oedipal issues; this category invites us to regress and draw attention to ourselves in a very narcissistic way, even just by saying "my pet" or "my dog". I find it interesting how different the categories are, and I never stopped to consider that having a pet was narcissistic in any way before.
The reef and pig sanctuary
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:35:49)
Related animal: Pig
Interpecies Collaboration Week 7
Since I haven’t talked about them yet I would like to talk about our trips to the reef on campus and the pig sanctuary in Solvang. I had never been to the reef until our class field trip and I’m sad that I missed out on it this whole time. In the two hour touch tank/information session I learned a ton of weird and interesting facts about some of the species of water animals that were at the reef. The most interesting was the octopus. I knew they were smart animals, but I had no idea they were capable of doing some of the “tricks” that they can do. The fact that an octopus can fit through any space that’s the same size or bigger than its head is outrageous; especially taking into account how many arms an octopus has.
The pig sanctuary was better than I could have ever imagined. For some reason I thought they would all be in confined spaces and separated from each other, but it was the opposite. The pigs got to roam the grounds for the most part and only the mean ones were kept in other areas. The pigs had such character. Madison brought some snacks for the pigs that I started feeding them with and one actually began following me searching for more food. I stopped walking and sat down in the dirt hoping the pig would do the same. I wanted to get on the pigs level and see how it would react to me face to face. After trying to bite my nose off thinking it was food, the pig laid down next to me signaling for a stomach rub. I gave the pig a brief massage and it was instantly asleep. They were like little children that just wanted love, pieces of apple, and a stomach massage. I felt like I had connected with this pig because I took care of it for a little and for that the pig saw me as a friend and not food or an intruder like when we first arrived. When we were almost ready to leave something very strange happened. I was walking across the pig sanctuary to meet with the rest of the group and on the way I walked passed two pigs just standing around. I told them to come with me like I would to my dog and they both started walking a few feet behind me. They followed me all the way to the other side of the sanctuary and when we arrived at the group they parted ways. They somehow understood what I said or the hand gesture I gave them. It was awesome!
[Write Comment]
By Andrew (06/10/13 19:35:49)
Related animal: Pig
Interpecies Collaboration Week 7
Since I haven’t talked about them yet I would like to talk about our trips to the reef on campus and the pig sanctuary in Solvang. I had never been to the reef until our class field trip and I’m sad that I missed out on it this whole time. In the two hour touch tank/information session I learned a ton of weird and interesting facts about some of the species of water animals that were at the reef. The most interesting was the octopus. I knew they were smart animals, but I had no idea they were capable of doing some of the “tricks” that they can do. The fact that an octopus can fit through any space that’s the same size or bigger than its head is outrageous; especially taking into account how many arms an octopus has.
The pig sanctuary was better than I could have ever imagined. For some reason I thought they would all be in confined spaces and separated from each other, but it was the opposite. The pigs got to roam the grounds for the most part and only the mean ones were kept in other areas. The pigs had such character. Madison brought some snacks for the pigs that I started feeding them with and one actually began following me searching for more food. I stopped walking and sat down in the dirt hoping the pig would do the same. I wanted to get on the pigs level and see how it would react to me face to face. After trying to bite my nose off thinking it was food, the pig laid down next to me signaling for a stomach rub. I gave the pig a brief massage and it was instantly asleep. They were like little children that just wanted love, pieces of apple, and a stomach massage. I felt like I had connected with this pig because I took care of it for a little and for that the pig saw me as a friend and not food or an intruder like when we first arrived. When we were almost ready to leave something very strange happened. I was walking across the pig sanctuary to meet with the rest of the group and on the way I walked passed two pigs just standing around. I told them to come with me like I would to my dog and they both started walking a few feet behind me. They followed me all the way to the other side of the sanctuary and when we arrived at the group they parted ways. They somehow understood what I said or the hand gesture I gave them. It was awesome!
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Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
The Turkey Trot
By Tanasa Slovin (04/21/10 22:51:55)
Related animals: Rooster, Turkey, Whale
What I found most interesting about Nollman’s story of the Turkey Trot, was the fact that he had always been obsessed with animals growing up and then at age sixteen, decided to turn to music simply because in his view like most animal lovers, “[he] did not help to change the “dead view” by becoming a zoologist” (p. 6). Nollman simply was passionate about the ability to learn from animals as opposed to learning about animals. Even at a young age, students are thrown into the awkward and uncomfortable position of dissecting animals for academic purposes. I felt a connection with Nollman when he discussed his experience of the matter. When dissecting time came around in high school biology, Nollman expresses, “…If I complained to the teacher that I would not, under any circumstances, stick a pin into the brain of a leopard frog, she, and most of the “serious” students, looked upon me as squeamish, or even a coward” (p. 6).
Nollmans relationship with the turkey consisted of only playing music for him/her for about an hour a day. It was interesting to me to learn that Nollman could distinguish the differences of whether or not the turkey was not actually singing with him, or whether or not he was actually responding to the intensity of the notes. By just spending an hour a day with him, Nollman discovered certain personality traits that consist within Turkeys, even how they react differently when the temperature in the weather changes. Nollman says, “When it was hot, the bird gobbled sooner and more often” (p.8). It is pretty remarkable how much information one can learn from an animal, just by spending simply one hour with them a day.
The most important aspect within the communication of the human/ turkey relationship is the connection that music has within an interspecies aspect. Nollman explains that communication in general involves more than just giving and receiving of knowledge, language and information—however it involves aesthetics. Music, for example, it aesthetically pleasing to humans, as well as the fact that “music involves a sharing of tones, harmonies, and rhythms during a set duration of time. The quality, the so-called beauty of the form, of course, lies in the ears of the beholder” (p. 9). This makes me want to experiment music and communication with other species!
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Tanasa Slovin (04/21/10 22:51:55)
Related animals: Rooster, Turkey, Whale
What I found most interesting about Nollman’s story of the Turkey Trot, was the fact that he had always been obsessed with animals growing up and then at age sixteen, decided to turn to music simply because in his view like most animal lovers, “[he] did not help to change the “dead view” by becoming a zoologist” (p. 6). Nollman simply was passionate about the ability to learn from animals as opposed to learning about animals. Even at a young age, students are thrown into the awkward and uncomfortable position of dissecting animals for academic purposes. I felt a connection with Nollman when he discussed his experience of the matter. When dissecting time came around in high school biology, Nollman expresses, “…If I complained to the teacher that I would not, under any circumstances, stick a pin into the brain of a leopard frog, she, and most of the “serious” students, looked upon me as squeamish, or even a coward” (p. 6).
Nollmans relationship with the turkey consisted of only playing music for him/her for about an hour a day. It was interesting to me to learn that Nollman could distinguish the differences of whether or not the turkey was not actually singing with him, or whether or not he was actually responding to the intensity of the notes. By just spending an hour a day with him, Nollman discovered certain personality traits that consist within Turkeys, even how they react differently when the temperature in the weather changes. Nollman says, “When it was hot, the bird gobbled sooner and more often” (p.8). It is pretty remarkable how much information one can learn from an animal, just by spending simply one hour with them a day.
The most important aspect within the communication of the human/ turkey relationship is the connection that music has within an interspecies aspect. Nollman explains that communication in general involves more than just giving and receiving of knowledge, language and information—however it involves aesthetics. Music, for example, it aesthetically pleasing to humans, as well as the fact that “music involves a sharing of tones, harmonies, and rhythms during a set duration of time. The quality, the so-called beauty of the form, of course, lies in the ears of the beholder” (p. 9). This makes me want to experiment music and communication with other species!
The Turkey Trot 4/21
By Brianna Acuesta (06/08/14 22:38:55)
Related animals: Hump Back Whale, Rooster
Since I'm writing this in retrospect, I'd like to not only discuss my take on the writing but also what was discussed in my group on the day that we broke into groups. I want to do this because it wasn't necessarily my initial reaction to the reading that stuck with me, but rather it was the ideas that suddenly came to mind in regards to the reading when we were discussing them in a group. This was also the day that we brought our dogs in for the first (and for me the last) time, and so Mango and Shera were with us outside.
When Nollman says that he wants to learn "from animals not about them," it reminded me of the whole point of this class. For us, it is about collaborating with animals to create something beautiful on a more intimate level. This seems like such a contrast from the way that people seem to interact with animals on a daily basis, whether it be in a classroom setting where they learn simple facts about an animal without witnessing these miracle creatures themselves, or it's in an ecological setting in which the goal can be objectively about observing their behavior. Though observing them can be a form of learning from them, I believe that there is a difference between the way that an artist collaborating with an animals would observe and the way an artist simply using an animal as a subject would observe. Another important topic that came up for us when discussing this piece is when the author notes that our relationship with animals changes over the course of our lives. Though he doesn't mention this, this made me think about the way that our culture influences us and our relationships with others. What I have observed is that as a child, we are able to love animals freely and without judgement by hugging all of the dogs we want, reading books about animals, drawing animals every chance we get, etc. However, as we mature, our ability to express a passionate love for any animal other than ones that we own becomes a bit odd and we are deemed weird if we are overly obsessed. I have personally encountered this whenever I say what it is I want to do for a living. I want to work for the ASPCA as an Animal Behavior Counselor, which basically means working with the animals that are brought in so that I can help shape their behavior and allow for them to get adopted. Many are supportive of this dream, but I have encountered my fair share of people wondering why I would care to dedicate my career/life to such a cause. I don't believe that it is anyone's fault for not understanding my choice, but I do think that our culture's way of restricting our passion for animals is a contributing factor and should be changed so that we can foster a more animal-loving environment.
I loved the way that Nollman describes his interactions with the turkey and the reaction the owner has to his "experimenting." I also found his take on animals and the concept of anthropomorphism when it comes to applying the way we feel and react to animals fascinating. This kind of concept was something I hadn't really considered, since I'm used to projecting human feelings onto animals in an effort to understand and categorize them, and it was interesting being exposed to such an idea.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Brianna Acuesta (06/08/14 22:38:55)
Related animals: Hump Back Whale, Rooster
Since I'm writing this in retrospect, I'd like to not only discuss my take on the writing but also what was discussed in my group on the day that we broke into groups. I want to do this because it wasn't necessarily my initial reaction to the reading that stuck with me, but rather it was the ideas that suddenly came to mind in regards to the reading when we were discussing them in a group. This was also the day that we brought our dogs in for the first (and for me the last) time, and so Mango and Shera were with us outside.
When Nollman says that he wants to learn "from animals not about them," it reminded me of the whole point of this class. For us, it is about collaborating with animals to create something beautiful on a more intimate level. This seems like such a contrast from the way that people seem to interact with animals on a daily basis, whether it be in a classroom setting where they learn simple facts about an animal without witnessing these miracle creatures themselves, or it's in an ecological setting in which the goal can be objectively about observing their behavior. Though observing them can be a form of learning from them, I believe that there is a difference between the way that an artist collaborating with an animals would observe and the way an artist simply using an animal as a subject would observe. Another important topic that came up for us when discussing this piece is when the author notes that our relationship with animals changes over the course of our lives. Though he doesn't mention this, this made me think about the way that our culture influences us and our relationships with others. What I have observed is that as a child, we are able to love animals freely and without judgement by hugging all of the dogs we want, reading books about animals, drawing animals every chance we get, etc. However, as we mature, our ability to express a passionate love for any animal other than ones that we own becomes a bit odd and we are deemed weird if we are overly obsessed. I have personally encountered this whenever I say what it is I want to do for a living. I want to work for the ASPCA as an Animal Behavior Counselor, which basically means working with the animals that are brought in so that I can help shape their behavior and allow for them to get adopted. Many are supportive of this dream, but I have encountered my fair share of people wondering why I would care to dedicate my career/life to such a cause. I don't believe that it is anyone's fault for not understanding my choice, but I do think that our culture's way of restricting our passion for animals is a contributing factor and should be changed so that we can foster a more animal-loving environment.
I loved the way that Nollman describes his interactions with the turkey and the reaction the owner has to his "experimenting." I also found his take on animals and the concept of anthropomorphism when it comes to applying the way we feel and react to animals fascinating. This kind of concept was something I hadn't really considered, since I'm used to projecting human feelings onto animals in an effort to understand and categorize them, and it was interesting being exposed to such an idea.
Reflection: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
The.Fear.of.the.Familiar
By Andrea Chase (04/18/10 20:49:14)
This reading was interesting in its discussion of artists' conceptions of creativity as stemming solely from "wild" inspirations. It reminds me of the positive relation that has been often associated with creativity bred from that which is natural and not affected by human influence. From architecture to narrative the unexplored regions of wilderness, whether tangible or emotional, have always served as a means of inspiration. It does not surprise me that conceptual artists over the past century have turned to that which is considered removed from the hand of man in order to advance art movements. The various artists discussed seemed to want to push the boundary between the relations of that which should not be interacted with, the wild. The didactic between the right to tame and the highly unnatural need to overcome instinct is the main discussion through much of these artists works.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (04/18/10 20:49:14)
This reading was interesting in its discussion of artists' conceptions of creativity as stemming solely from "wild" inspirations. It reminds me of the positive relation that has been often associated with creativity bred from that which is natural and not affected by human influence. From architecture to narrative the unexplored regions of wilderness, whether tangible or emotional, have always served as a means of inspiration. It does not surprise me that conceptual artists over the past century have turned to that which is considered removed from the hand of man in order to advance art movements. The various artists discussed seemed to want to push the boundary between the relations of that which should not be interacted with, the wild. The didactic between the right to tame and the highly unnatural need to overcome instinct is the main discussion through much of these artists works.
Thirsty?
By Heather Sielke (04/21/10 07:57:29)
Related animals: Cat, Dog
After Barbara Janell's workshop on Thursday I went home to try some of the things she taught us. In class we had this one one exercise that we tried to enter an animal and try and communicate with them. I chose my eldest cat Twinkle Bell which I have had since I was four years old. A couple of weeks ago we lost her and I wanted to see how she might be feeling after the ordeal. We found her a day and a half later in my neighbors yard she had gotten in a fight with this annoying orange cat that like to torment her at night in our back window. Also in the past few weeks we had to cut and pretty much shave her fur because it had gotten matted a kind of dread lock. In the class while think of her I felt calm but every time I tried to think of her my left index finger would twitch and would not stop until I stopped trying to communicate. When I got home I tried it again with her in my lap and got the same twitch. I do not know what it is about and am confused.
So then I was pet sitting and child sitting my neighbor's child and dog and I decided to teach Timmy the child how to communicate with Scooter the dog. I sat down with them and tried to focus in on being inside the dog Timmy just wanted to watch. First I focused on myself and what I was feeling then I tried to "enter" the dog's mind (i guess). I got an extraordinary wave of thirst. When I stopped I was no longer thirsty. I was time to take Timmy over to get dressed for bed and so when I took them over and let Scooter go she went straight for the water bowl I thought it was so weird.
[Write Comment]
By Heather Sielke (04/21/10 07:57:29)
Related animals: Cat, Dog
After Barbara Janell's workshop on Thursday I went home to try some of the things she taught us. In class we had this one one exercise that we tried to enter an animal and try and communicate with them. I chose my eldest cat Twinkle Bell which I have had since I was four years old. A couple of weeks ago we lost her and I wanted to see how she might be feeling after the ordeal. We found her a day and a half later in my neighbors yard she had gotten in a fight with this annoying orange cat that like to torment her at night in our back window. Also in the past few weeks we had to cut and pretty much shave her fur because it had gotten matted a kind of dread lock. In the class while think of her I felt calm but every time I tried to think of her my left index finger would twitch and would not stop until I stopped trying to communicate. When I got home I tried it again with her in my lap and got the same twitch. I do not know what it is about and am confused.
So then I was pet sitting and child sitting my neighbor's child and dog and I decided to teach Timmy the child how to communicate with Scooter the dog. I sat down with them and tried to focus in on being inside the dog Timmy just wanted to watch. First I focused on myself and what I was feeling then I tried to "enter" the dog's mind (i guess). I got an extraordinary wave of thirst. When I stopped I was no longer thirsty. I was time to take Timmy over to get dressed for bed and so when I took them over and let Scooter go she went straight for the water bowl I thought it was so weird.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Thoughts About Chapters 1 and 4 from The Man Who Talks to Whales
By Rachel Fleming (04/19/14 23:44:16)
Chapter 1
I can relate to the author in several ways:
1. I also had a great affinity for animals at a young age. I would catch animals and bring them inside. I had a similar response from my mom toward bringing in a wild animal—for me, an injured mouse.
2. It was easy for me and my friends to pretend to be another animal during playtime. No explanations were required.
3. I wanted to work with animals for my career.
4. I disliked how humans seemed to only want to help themselves.
There was an error I caught in the definition of anthropomorphism. In current dictionaries, it is defined as giving human attributes to anything, not just an animal.
I felt quite a bit of frustration and anger from reading this passage…
I disagree with his observation that zoologists, etc “look down on” the animals they are studying. They don’t choose to, they have to in order to have their science taken seriously and so that human biases do not influence results or conclusions. It’s easy to assume that an animal does something for a certain reason sometimes because that’s what it looks like to us. Sometimes this is a valid assumption. However, it isn’t always true. When killer whales open their mouths they are not smiling, but rather giving a threat. The same goes for chimpanzees. Smiles for chimps are closed-mouth, whereas anything showing teeth, such as what we would consider a wide grin, might be taken as a threat.
I strongly dislike his attitude toward animals being used for science and human endeavors. He must not see the big picture when it comes to studying animals. Progress from animal experimentation has saved not only uncountable human lives, but also the lives of many other kinds of animals and of species as a whole. Also, dissecting a dead leopard frog is not cruelty.
Yes, animals ARE biological machines. And so are humans. However, there doesn't have to be anything wrong with that. Just because something is understood scientifically or thought of as being chemical doesn't mean it doesn't get or deserve respect and wonder from those studying it,
He seems to have this view that science is only to help humans, which isn't true. I was also frustrated by humans only helping humans in high school, but never did I blame science or scientists for this. I knew that there were many scientists working hard to help save species through environmental studies, biochemistry, zoology, toxicology, etc. He obviously doesn't understand science or didn't meet passionate scientists…or any at all. This is a huge shame. I wonder how he got these ideas. Somehow science needs to build a better public reputation.
It seems as though, even though the author loves animals, there is a certain kind of respect missing for them. The author, in a sense, disturbs the animals with his curiosity and will to get close to the wild animals. A scientist such as a zoologist better understands the evolutionary boundaries between species. A person might feel like they are “playing” with an animal when really the animal is either fighting for its life or being severely stressed out. To me, it is more respectful to not assume that the animal interprets things the same way we do, just like it’s not polite to assume that other people have the same food preference as you at a restaurant, for example.
Also, the author seems unaware of the work of some kinds of behavioral sociologists, who treat human subjects the same way that zoologists treat their subjects. Scientists do NOT endorse a “dumb animal” concept. We approach everything systematically not to take the life, fun, or sentimentality out of things, but to be precise and accurate and draw truthful conclusions that we can use to make a positive change in the world, and not just for humans.
Chapter 4
I don’t believe in an “Interspecies Protocol.” The lions and Bushmen simply did not cross paths at the waterhole. If they did, one or the other wouldn't have survived or one of them would have moved. The Bushmen probably had their own protocol for not being killed by lions. The lions I’m sure had plenty of prey to eat and so humans were off the menu. Once the ranchers came in, I highly doubt that the lions saw cows as an “extension of humans.” They probably just weren't used to seeing cows. As an example, Orcas didn't start eating sea otters around California until they started catching on about the idea of using them as a food source. Once the lions figured they could eat the cows, or once the cows had driven off their usual prey, the lions had fewer options and went for the slower, easier prey. The presence of the ranchers likely drove off many grazers and left the lions hungrier and more desperate than usual, which probably drove them to killing the Bushmen. I highly doubt that it was because some sort of unspoken pact was broken.
I think there are instincts that animals have. The boundaries are set by evolution, not by a mutual understanding. Perhaps the effect of evolution can be interpreted as a protocol and understanding between species, but it will never be understood by animals on the same level as humans understand a written or spoken agreement of customs.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Rachel Fleming (04/19/14 23:44:16)
Chapter 1
I can relate to the author in several ways:
1. I also had a great affinity for animals at a young age. I would catch animals and bring them inside. I had a similar response from my mom toward bringing in a wild animal—for me, an injured mouse.
2. It was easy for me and my friends to pretend to be another animal during playtime. No explanations were required.
3. I wanted to work with animals for my career.
4. I disliked how humans seemed to only want to help themselves.
There was an error I caught in the definition of anthropomorphism. In current dictionaries, it is defined as giving human attributes to anything, not just an animal.
I felt quite a bit of frustration and anger from reading this passage…
I disagree with his observation that zoologists, etc “look down on” the animals they are studying. They don’t choose to, they have to in order to have their science taken seriously and so that human biases do not influence results or conclusions. It’s easy to assume that an animal does something for a certain reason sometimes because that’s what it looks like to us. Sometimes this is a valid assumption. However, it isn’t always true. When killer whales open their mouths they are not smiling, but rather giving a threat. The same goes for chimpanzees. Smiles for chimps are closed-mouth, whereas anything showing teeth, such as what we would consider a wide grin, might be taken as a threat.
I strongly dislike his attitude toward animals being used for science and human endeavors. He must not see the big picture when it comes to studying animals. Progress from animal experimentation has saved not only uncountable human lives, but also the lives of many other kinds of animals and of species as a whole. Also, dissecting a dead leopard frog is not cruelty.
Yes, animals ARE biological machines. And so are humans. However, there doesn't have to be anything wrong with that. Just because something is understood scientifically or thought of as being chemical doesn't mean it doesn't get or deserve respect and wonder from those studying it,
He seems to have this view that science is only to help humans, which isn't true. I was also frustrated by humans only helping humans in high school, but never did I blame science or scientists for this. I knew that there were many scientists working hard to help save species through environmental studies, biochemistry, zoology, toxicology, etc. He obviously doesn't understand science or didn't meet passionate scientists…or any at all. This is a huge shame. I wonder how he got these ideas. Somehow science needs to build a better public reputation.
It seems as though, even though the author loves animals, there is a certain kind of respect missing for them. The author, in a sense, disturbs the animals with his curiosity and will to get close to the wild animals. A scientist such as a zoologist better understands the evolutionary boundaries between species. A person might feel like they are “playing” with an animal when really the animal is either fighting for its life or being severely stressed out. To me, it is more respectful to not assume that the animal interprets things the same way we do, just like it’s not polite to assume that other people have the same food preference as you at a restaurant, for example.
Also, the author seems unaware of the work of some kinds of behavioral sociologists, who treat human subjects the same way that zoologists treat their subjects. Scientists do NOT endorse a “dumb animal” concept. We approach everything systematically not to take the life, fun, or sentimentality out of things, but to be precise and accurate and draw truthful conclusions that we can use to make a positive change in the world, and not just for humans.
Chapter 4
I don’t believe in an “Interspecies Protocol.” The lions and Bushmen simply did not cross paths at the waterhole. If they did, one or the other wouldn't have survived or one of them would have moved. The Bushmen probably had their own protocol for not being killed by lions. The lions I’m sure had plenty of prey to eat and so humans were off the menu. Once the ranchers came in, I highly doubt that the lions saw cows as an “extension of humans.” They probably just weren't used to seeing cows. As an example, Orcas didn't start eating sea otters around California until they started catching on about the idea of using them as a food source. Once the lions figured they could eat the cows, or once the cows had driven off their usual prey, the lions had fewer options and went for the slower, easier prey. The presence of the ranchers likely drove off many grazers and left the lions hungrier and more desperate than usual, which probably drove them to killing the Bushmen. I highly doubt that it was because some sort of unspoken pact was broken.
I think there are instincts that animals have. The boundaries are set by evolution, not by a mutual understanding. Perhaps the effect of evolution can be interpreted as a protocol and understanding between species, but it will never be understood by animals on the same level as humans understand a written or spoken agreement of customs.
Thoughts on "The Man Who Talks to Whales"
By Kirsten Howard (04/09/10 20:42:47)
Related animals: Anemone, Turkey
There is a part of Jim Nollman's text that caught my attention. It is from "The Man Who Talks to Whales," in the very first chapter and second paragraph. He states,
"They say that a human fetus retraces the path of evolution in its development from one-celled creature to human being. This is known as ontogeny recapitulating phylogeny. I say that the process continues long after birth, but now on the level of culture. A five-year-old is much closer to his animal roots than a six-year-old. And so, with each passing year the chasm between us humans and the rest of nature grows wider and wider." (5)
I would agree with Nollman in that we do begin to separate from animals as we grow up, at least in this culture. However, I have recently begun reading the Hindu text, "The Bhagavad Gita," as well as "The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali," and something that both mention is that with the study of meditation, yoga, and spiritual practice, a sort of involution happens (the opposite of evolution). By this, I mean that one can come to realize that the Self is the same inside everyone, every being, everything. With this realization comes a further compassion for others and animals. I came to this realization before reading those books, during a yoga class. I had a sudden strong sense of oneness with all beings, and after that class, I have never eaten meat for that reason. Therefore, when I read that paragraph by Nollman, I realized that it doesn't have to be the case that we come into this world being one with animals, and we slowly become separate from them further and further with age. I think that if we work on understanding animals, and that they have spirits within them, that we will return back to a state of oneness with all animals and all beings.
I have been thinking about what to do for a project, and I keep coming back to this idea of feeling close to animals when meditating and doing yoga, and I wonder if there is someway I could incorporate this into a project. I also have thought about ideas of giving. One idea is to brush my hair and my dogs hair, and leave the strands that come out under a tree where birds are present, because they make nests out of things like that. Perhaps my dog and I could also collect branches and twigs and leave them there too for the birds to make nests. These are my current thoughts, we'll see what comes of them :)
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Kirsten Howard (04/09/10 20:42:47)
Related animals: Anemone, Turkey
There is a part of Jim Nollman's text that caught my attention. It is from "The Man Who Talks to Whales," in the very first chapter and second paragraph. He states,
"They say that a human fetus retraces the path of evolution in its development from one-celled creature to human being. This is known as ontogeny recapitulating phylogeny. I say that the process continues long after birth, but now on the level of culture. A five-year-old is much closer to his animal roots than a six-year-old. And so, with each passing year the chasm between us humans and the rest of nature grows wider and wider." (5)
I would agree with Nollman in that we do begin to separate from animals as we grow up, at least in this culture. However, I have recently begun reading the Hindu text, "The Bhagavad Gita," as well as "The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali," and something that both mention is that with the study of meditation, yoga, and spiritual practice, a sort of involution happens (the opposite of evolution). By this, I mean that one can come to realize that the Self is the same inside everyone, every being, everything. With this realization comes a further compassion for others and animals. I came to this realization before reading those books, during a yoga class. I had a sudden strong sense of oneness with all beings, and after that class, I have never eaten meat for that reason. Therefore, when I read that paragraph by Nollman, I realized that it doesn't have to be the case that we come into this world being one with animals, and we slowly become separate from them further and further with age. I think that if we work on understanding animals, and that they have spirits within them, that we will return back to a state of oneness with all animals and all beings.
I have been thinking about what to do for a project, and I keep coming back to this idea of feeling close to animals when meditating and doing yoga, and I wonder if there is someway I could incorporate this into a project. I also have thought about ideas of giving. One idea is to brush my hair and my dogs hair, and leave the strands that come out under a tree where birds are present, because they make nests out of things like that. Perhaps my dog and I could also collect branches and twigs and leave them there too for the birds to make nests. These are my current thoughts, we'll see what comes of them :)
Reflection: Other Related Research
Thoughts on Final Project
By Madison Wanamaker (05/20/13 12:23:08)
For the gallery exhibition next week I have decided to show my 10 pig portraits, along side a group of other non human portraits as two separate but related bodies of work. I am enlarging the prints to larger-then-life size to bring attention to the details of each face. I hope to use the editing of the photographs, the size of the prints, and the display to elevate my subjects, in a way that will provoke thoughts about these animals, and our relationships with them. In the second group I will similarly display another 10 various non human animals including, foxes, cats, dogs, and rats, who have participated in my portrait project. It is my belief that putting socially recognizable "pets" in the same light as a pig- something most americans eat- that the viewer will be forced to see the similarity in the many species while also seeing the uniqueness of the individuals.
I have not finalized my decision of which animals to include in the second group, however I will include several options below. One of my main concerns is that many viewers have their own opinion about which animals are "pets". I am trying to create a group of animals that are identifiable as elevated to a certain degree of companionship, to contrast the pot bellied pigs. Maybe some animals I consider pets, like a rat, may be as equally undeserving as a pig to others?
[Write Comment]
By Madison Wanamaker (05/20/13 12:23:08)
For the gallery exhibition next week I have decided to show my 10 pig portraits, along side a group of other non human portraits as two separate but related bodies of work. I am enlarging the prints to larger-then-life size to bring attention to the details of each face. I hope to use the editing of the photographs, the size of the prints, and the display to elevate my subjects, in a way that will provoke thoughts about these animals, and our relationships with them. In the second group I will similarly display another 10 various non human animals including, foxes, cats, dogs, and rats, who have participated in my portrait project. It is my belief that putting socially recognizable "pets" in the same light as a pig- something most americans eat- that the viewer will be forced to see the similarity in the many species while also seeing the uniqueness of the individuals.
I have not finalized my decision of which animals to include in the second group, however I will include several options below. One of my main concerns is that many viewers have their own opinion about which animals are "pets". I am trying to create a group of animals that are identifiable as elevated to a certain degree of companionship, to contrast the pot bellied pigs. Maybe some animals I consider pets, like a rat, may be as equally undeserving as a pig to others?
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Reflection: Animal Communication
Topper
By Cori Arnold (05/11/09 14:56:01)
Related animal: Dog
Labor Day weekend my twelve-year old family Dachshund passed away. My mother had called me two days before telling me that the dog had become rapidly ill and that the veterinarians were doing testing. His life and his pain quickly ended, leaving me very sad and determined to raise a dog of my own.
Within twenty-four hours I had found the most adorable Dachshund ever! He was black and tan with curly long hair, and the cutest eyes a puppy could posses. I was instantly sold and brought him home. From the moment that I had first seen this dog he was the happiest non-human animal I had ever encountered. To this day he is still the happiest dog I have ever known. In addition to his blissful personality he is extremely intelligent. Anything that he has been taught he picks up within a few hours. I was having extreme difficulties with having him go to the bathroom outside, because he would not bark to let me know that he needed to go outside. Since it was around Christmas, I had a bunch of old sleigh bells and decided to try and hang one from a piece of string on the back door, in hopes that he would ring it when he needed to be let out. Initially I was very skeptical of this method; even though, other dog owners had told me it had worked for them in the past. I hung the bell and showed him once or twice what the purpose of it was and within an hour or two he had figured it out! I was astonished with how quickly he had learned to use the bell as a form of communication with me.
There are many things, which I have trained my dog to do and I could probably write a short book about his intelligence and his modes of communicating with me, but one last thing I would like to mention is giving him his daily medication. A few months ago, he had a foreign body stuck in his left eyeball. I had to take him to an eye specialist in Arroyo Grande to have it removed and fortunately he completely healed and was back to normal within two weeks following the procedure. The eye-specialist informed my husband and I that we would need to give him eye drops for the rest of his life two times a day, stating that this would help prevent him from having dry-eye and possibly running into the same issue again. I was extremely concerned that it would be difficult to give him the drops twice each day, especially after watching "The Dog Whisperer", because there are couples on that show all of the time who have issues with giving their dogs medication. I decided to try and make him as comfortable as I could when giving him the drops. First, I began by sitting down on the floor and having him curl up into my lap. Then, I would let him smell what I was about to put into his eyes, so he knew what to expect. Finally, once I was finished I would give him a treat for being a good dog. This has quickly become our daily routine, to the point where all I need to say is "Topper let's do your eye drops" and he is running over to me to curl up into my lap, putting his head back and keeping his eyes open. I barely need to do anything to hold him still, it is amazing!
I find it fascinating that although I can not physically communicate in English with my dog, we have managed to find our own way of communicating with one another. Obviously my methods are not full-proof, but are and have been extremely useful. I have found the work I've been doing to raise my pet very helpful to understanding how I can possibly communicate with other non-human animals. I have learned that it is not impossible to communicate with the other species, it may be difficult and take time to figure out, but I do feel that it is quite important to understand non-human animals and their interactions with humans.
[Write Comment]
By Cori Arnold (05/11/09 14:56:01)
Related animal: Dog
Labor Day weekend my twelve-year old family Dachshund passed away. My mother had called me two days before telling me that the dog had become rapidly ill and that the veterinarians were doing testing. His life and his pain quickly ended, leaving me very sad and determined to raise a dog of my own.
Within twenty-four hours I had found the most adorable Dachshund ever! He was black and tan with curly long hair, and the cutest eyes a puppy could posses. I was instantly sold and brought him home. From the moment that I had first seen this dog he was the happiest non-human animal I had ever encountered. To this day he is still the happiest dog I have ever known. In addition to his blissful personality he is extremely intelligent. Anything that he has been taught he picks up within a few hours. I was having extreme difficulties with having him go to the bathroom outside, because he would not bark to let me know that he needed to go outside. Since it was around Christmas, I had a bunch of old sleigh bells and decided to try and hang one from a piece of string on the back door, in hopes that he would ring it when he needed to be let out. Initially I was very skeptical of this method; even though, other dog owners had told me it had worked for them in the past. I hung the bell and showed him once or twice what the purpose of it was and within an hour or two he had figured it out! I was astonished with how quickly he had learned to use the bell as a form of communication with me.
There are many things, which I have trained my dog to do and I could probably write a short book about his intelligence and his modes of communicating with me, but one last thing I would like to mention is giving him his daily medication. A few months ago, he had a foreign body stuck in his left eyeball. I had to take him to an eye specialist in Arroyo Grande to have it removed and fortunately he completely healed and was back to normal within two weeks following the procedure. The eye-specialist informed my husband and I that we would need to give him eye drops for the rest of his life two times a day, stating that this would help prevent him from having dry-eye and possibly running into the same issue again. I was extremely concerned that it would be difficult to give him the drops twice each day, especially after watching "The Dog Whisperer", because there are couples on that show all of the time who have issues with giving their dogs medication. I decided to try and make him as comfortable as I could when giving him the drops. First, I began by sitting down on the floor and having him curl up into my lap. Then, I would let him smell what I was about to put into his eyes, so he knew what to expect. Finally, once I was finished I would give him a treat for being a good dog. This has quickly become our daily routine, to the point where all I need to say is "Topper let's do your eye drops" and he is running over to me to curl up into my lap, putting his head back and keeping his eyes open. I barely need to do anything to hold him still, it is amazing!
I find it fascinating that although I can not physically communicate in English with my dog, we have managed to find our own way of communicating with one another. Obviously my methods are not full-proof, but are and have been extremely useful. I have found the work I've been doing to raise my pet very helpful to understanding how I can possibly communicate with other non-human animals. I have learned that it is not impossible to communicate with the other species, it may be difficult and take time to figure out, but I do feel that it is quite important to understand non-human animals and their interactions with humans.
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Notice how his left eye is dilated, this was after the foreign body was removed. | 
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Reflection: Other Related Research
Tree Healing
By Sarina Martinez (04/21/10 23:00:34)
Barbara's workshop brought about some very interesting ideas that I have over looked before. I know that a person personal emotions can affect the people around them, and also that animals are more subjective to emotions. I just never thought to put the two together and consider how my mood could affect an animal.
I have a little dog, Hallow, and I tried some of the techniques that Barbara demonstrated in class. The first was to try and see Hallow's size, and she seems smaller than her body. At times I can feel that she fits the size of her body but in general she is quite a bit smaller. I think this has a lot to do with her being in a shelter and being abandoned. So I tried to sit with her and send positive and confidence boosting vibes. She seems to be especially receptive to emotion so I feel that these sessions of positivity will help her greatly.
[Write Comment]
By Sarina Martinez (04/21/10 23:00:34)
Barbara's workshop brought about some very interesting ideas that I have over looked before. I know that a person personal emotions can affect the people around them, and also that animals are more subjective to emotions. I just never thought to put the two together and consider how my mood could affect an animal.
I have a little dog, Hallow, and I tried some of the techniques that Barbara demonstrated in class. The first was to try and see Hallow's size, and she seems smaller than her body. At times I can feel that she fits the size of her body but in general she is quite a bit smaller. I think this has a lot to do with her being in a shelter and being abandoned. So I tried to sit with her and send positive and confidence boosting vibes. She seems to be especially receptive to emotion so I feel that these sessions of positivity will help her greatly.
[Write Comment]
Other: Animal Communication
Triangulation
By Jeff Marsch (05/14/09 08:46:25)
Related animal: Dog
What is the medium of thought communication? It has been proposed throughout history that there is the possibility of instantaneous communication regardless of distance, location, or any other variable. This seems to be the type of communication that is employed by animal communicators that claim to speak to pets over telephones, to dead animals, to non present animals based on the virtue of name. What is the nature of the connection between the communicator and the supposed reciprocating animal? I made a few maps so that I may deduce how much information seems to be necessary for one with telepathic powers to communicate with a non-local entity. It seems that at least 3 pieces are needed to locate the animal and establish communication. Based on the video we watched, they can be any of the following things: knowledge of the pet's name, the presence of the owner, the whereabouts of the animal, rudimentary knowledge of the animal's behavior, belief that the animal will transmit information back in response to emotional contact, etc. It appears that three anchors are necessary to triangulate the target animal, much the same way in which three satellites are needed to accurately locate a gps. For a bigger project I propose to give three legitimate attempts at communicating with three non-present animals via telepathy so as to try and deduce what exactly needs to be known about the animal before one can open a pathway to it.
[Write Comment]
By Jeff Marsch (05/14/09 08:46:25)
Related animal: Dog
What is the medium of thought communication? It has been proposed throughout history that there is the possibility of instantaneous communication regardless of distance, location, or any other variable. This seems to be the type of communication that is employed by animal communicators that claim to speak to pets over telephones, to dead animals, to non present animals based on the virtue of name. What is the nature of the connection between the communicator and the supposed reciprocating animal? I made a few maps so that I may deduce how much information seems to be necessary for one with telepathic powers to communicate with a non-local entity. It seems that at least 3 pieces are needed to locate the animal and establish communication. Based on the video we watched, they can be any of the following things: knowledge of the pet's name, the presence of the owner, the whereabouts of the animal, rudimentary knowledge of the animal's behavior, belief that the animal will transmit information back in response to emotional contact, etc. It appears that three anchors are necessary to triangulate the target animal, much the same way in which three satellites are needed to accurately locate a gps. For a bigger project I propose to give three legitimate attempts at communicating with three non-present animals via telepathy so as to try and deduce what exactly needs to be known about the animal before one can open a pathway to it.
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Trip to the West Campus Stables.
By Erik Shalat (05/13/13 09:48:37)
Related animal: Horse
This has been a great quarter to go see big animals. I’ve seen huge farm pigs, sheep and cattle. A few days ago I visited the West Campus Stables to draw from live horses for my intermediate drawing course. I have a history with horses; I tried to learn to ride them one summer when I was about five and our neighborhood is considered very “horse-friendly” with several equestrian riders trotting along our streets and parks. Actually, the park at the bottom of my street has about three horse farms surrounding it. So while I see horses often, I don’t think i’ve actually touched one or interacted with one in several years.
I managed to form a bond with one horse by the name of Chief. Before I tried to draw him I petted him and fed him some grass, because that seems like the thing to do around a horse I suppose. Later when we were left to our own devices, I hung around his pen and he kept following me when I tried to draw him. I would pet and feed him, and try to go back to drawing, he would get right back in my face and beat his hoof on the fence. He stayed right next to me for about half an hour. At a certain point I was more interesting in interacting with the horse than trying to capture it in illustration so I put down the paper and pencil and started moving around. The horse would follow me back and forth along fence. I would go to the very end of the fence very quickly, and he would beat his hooves again and walk over.
Horses have curious faces. When you look closely, you can see why horses are associated with dour, long faces. It’s more than the downwards, extended mouths. They have very sorrowful eyes. Something I love about horse’s appearance is that they have such a sheen to them. The short hair and thick, prominent muscles makes them glisten in the sun.
A misconception I had about horses is that they’re always standing up. I was under the impression that horses were too fragile and if they fell down they would break their legs. The horses on the West Campus Stables would roll around in the dirt with the kinetic force of a car. They propelled themselves down and got on their backs and twisted and turned. When I saw it I was frightened; I thought they were hurting themselves. Horses are a lot sturdier than I thought.
I am considering a project with horses, assuming I can gain access to the West Campus Stables without people getting angry that I am using their pets for art. Horses are a very easy animal to feel empathy with. That is generally true of larger animals like dogs, horses and pigs. Horses are much more reactive than pigs I feel, so there is definitely some potential for projects.
[Write Comment]
By Erik Shalat (05/13/13 09:48:37)
Related animal: Horse
This has been a great quarter to go see big animals. I’ve seen huge farm pigs, sheep and cattle. A few days ago I visited the West Campus Stables to draw from live horses for my intermediate drawing course. I have a history with horses; I tried to learn to ride them one summer when I was about five and our neighborhood is considered very “horse-friendly” with several equestrian riders trotting along our streets and parks. Actually, the park at the bottom of my street has about three horse farms surrounding it. So while I see horses often, I don’t think i’ve actually touched one or interacted with one in several years.
I managed to form a bond with one horse by the name of Chief. Before I tried to draw him I petted him and fed him some grass, because that seems like the thing to do around a horse I suppose. Later when we were left to our own devices, I hung around his pen and he kept following me when I tried to draw him. I would pet and feed him, and try to go back to drawing, he would get right back in my face and beat his hoof on the fence. He stayed right next to me for about half an hour. At a certain point I was more interesting in interacting with the horse than trying to capture it in illustration so I put down the paper and pencil and started moving around. The horse would follow me back and forth along fence. I would go to the very end of the fence very quickly, and he would beat his hooves again and walk over.
Horses have curious faces. When you look closely, you can see why horses are associated with dour, long faces. It’s more than the downwards, extended mouths. They have very sorrowful eyes. Something I love about horse’s appearance is that they have such a sheen to them. The short hair and thick, prominent muscles makes them glisten in the sun.
A misconception I had about horses is that they’re always standing up. I was under the impression that horses were too fragile and if they fell down they would break their legs. The horses on the West Campus Stables would roll around in the dirt with the kinetic force of a car. They propelled themselves down and got on their backs and twisted and turned. When I saw it I was frightened; I thought they were hurting themselves. Horses are a lot sturdier than I thought.
I am considering a project with horses, assuming I can gain access to the West Campus Stables without people getting angry that I am using their pets for art. Horses are a very easy animal to feel empathy with. That is generally true of larger animals like dogs, horses and pigs. Horses are much more reactive than pigs I feel, so there is definitely some potential for projects.
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Trying to communicate with a cat
By Lillian Shanahan (04/21/10 15:04:54)
Related animal: Cat
There is a cat that lives out in the buses near the CLAS building. I have been trying to get it to come to me for weeks, but the moment it sees any human being it runs off into the bushes again. I found out that one the ladies who works on campus has been feeding the cat for a while. We talked about it and came to the conclusion that the cat must have been abandoned by some IV student and had had some traumatic experiences,
thus the cats protocol with humans is run on site. She gave me some cat food so that on the days she can't feed it I will. She said she has been feeding it for 6 months and its still afraid of her. although now it will stand for her to be near him while it eats.
She named the cat Tommy (for Tom Cat). After Barbara's lecture I have been trying to communicate with the cat- I have done it at least 3 times, but still no success, the last time I closed my eyes and concentrated hard- but when I opened them the cat was no longer there.. I just kinda felt stupid.
But I am not discouraged, I am going to still try and communicate and hopefully allow the cat to become more comfortable with me and know that I mean it no harm.
I actually had a dream last night that I got the cat to come to me except I feed it my coffee instead of the regular food. It seemed to enjoy the coffee, but I didnt want to make it sick so I can to get the food and came back and sta with it while it ate... and it talked to me and told me that the food was salty and addictive and that its not what cats should it bc its mainly full of grain....
I don't know if that was the cat talking to me or just my own prejudices against processed animal food.
[Write Comment]
By Lillian Shanahan (04/21/10 15:04:54)
Related animal: Cat
There is a cat that lives out in the buses near the CLAS building. I have been trying to get it to come to me for weeks, but the moment it sees any human being it runs off into the bushes again. I found out that one the ladies who works on campus has been feeding the cat for a while. We talked about it and came to the conclusion that the cat must have been abandoned by some IV student and had had some traumatic experiences,
thus the cats protocol with humans is run on site. She gave me some cat food so that on the days she can't feed it I will. She said she has been feeding it for 6 months and its still afraid of her. although now it will stand for her to be near him while it eats.
She named the cat Tommy (for Tom Cat). After Barbara's lecture I have been trying to communicate with the cat- I have done it at least 3 times, but still no success, the last time I closed my eyes and concentrated hard- but when I opened them the cat was no longer there.. I just kinda felt stupid.
But I am not discouraged, I am going to still try and communicate and hopefully allow the cat to become more comfortable with me and know that I mean it no harm.
I actually had a dream last night that I got the cat to come to me except I feed it my coffee instead of the regular food. It seemed to enjoy the coffee, but I didnt want to make it sick so I can to get the food and came back and sta with it while it ate... and it talked to me and told me that the food was salty and addictive and that its not what cats should it bc its mainly full of grain....
I don't know if that was the cat talking to me or just my own prejudices against processed animal food.
[Write Comment]
Turkey Trot and the Man Who Talks to Whales
By Matthew Roy Reeves (04/20/10 16:01:29)
Related animal: Turkey
Jim Nollman introduces his artistic passion for animals by describing childhood and losing touch with personal interests. “…[W]ith each passing year the chasm between us and humans and the rest of nature grows wider and wider” (5). The animal enthusiast became distracted by human culture as he grew up, and experienced his own personal evolution. “They say that a human fetus retraces the path of evolution in its development from one-celled creature to human being…I say that the process continues long after birth, but now on the level of culture” (5). Culture diverted Nollman’s passion, but it was reclaimed, nearly as nature had intended.
Where Nollman lost touch with animals he gained prominence in the American music subculture during the 60’s and 70’s. The call to return to his passion for animals, however, ended his performing career. “…[I]t finally dawned on me that there was no glorious future awaiting me in the rock and roll business” (7). After another setback, his wayward pursuit of his passions wound up in Mexico.
The casual lifestyle Nollman experienced in Mexico prompted a different approach to music, one that focused on playing and sharing music as an element of a community…of turkeys? Here was when animals finally returned to his wandering eyes in search of his passion. Turkeys next door would respond as he played his guitar, where he then actively began practicing in response to their reactions.
“I ceased to experiment on the turkey, and instead, began to play with it” (9) Nollman’s original pursuit of learning with animals was recaptured. From turkeys in Mexico came “bobwhites in Ohio, kangaroo rats in Death Valley, and a pack of wolves at a refuge in Nevada” (14). In each relationship, Nollman incorporated the medium of music into the art of collaboration.
Interspecies collaboration defines a breaking of the human evolutionary cycle that Nollman finally experienced, and was then free to engage in his passion by learning with animals as a human. He no longer represented a member in human society, like a zoologist or musician. He was an artist exploring his species identity, just as he did as a child. With the passion reaffirmed, Nollman’s art could then commence.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Matthew Roy Reeves (04/20/10 16:01:29)
Related animal: Turkey
Jim Nollman introduces his artistic passion for animals by describing childhood and losing touch with personal interests. “…[W]ith each passing year the chasm between us and humans and the rest of nature grows wider and wider” (5). The animal enthusiast became distracted by human culture as he grew up, and experienced his own personal evolution. “They say that a human fetus retraces the path of evolution in its development from one-celled creature to human being…I say that the process continues long after birth, but now on the level of culture” (5). Culture diverted Nollman’s passion, but it was reclaimed, nearly as nature had intended.
Where Nollman lost touch with animals he gained prominence in the American music subculture during the 60’s and 70’s. The call to return to his passion for animals, however, ended his performing career. “…[I]t finally dawned on me that there was no glorious future awaiting me in the rock and roll business” (7). After another setback, his wayward pursuit of his passions wound up in Mexico.
The casual lifestyle Nollman experienced in Mexico prompted a different approach to music, one that focused on playing and sharing music as an element of a community…of turkeys? Here was when animals finally returned to his wandering eyes in search of his passion. Turkeys next door would respond as he played his guitar, where he then actively began practicing in response to their reactions.
“I ceased to experiment on the turkey, and instead, began to play with it” (9) Nollman’s original pursuit of learning with animals was recaptured. From turkeys in Mexico came “bobwhites in Ohio, kangaroo rats in Death Valley, and a pack of wolves at a refuge in Nevada” (14). In each relationship, Nollman incorporated the medium of music into the art of collaboration.
Interspecies collaboration defines a breaking of the human evolutionary cycle that Nollman finally experienced, and was then free to engage in his passion by learning with animals as a human. He no longer represented a member in human society, like a zoologist or musician. He was an artist exploring his species identity, just as he did as a child. With the passion reaffirmed, Nollman’s art could then commence.
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Turkey Trot...Interspecies Protocol
By Michelle Safley (04/21/10 00:48:44)
Related animals: Rooster, Turkey, Whale
Chapter one, Turkey Trot, is most interesting following the question, "Can an animal be taught to communicate with a human being?" The instinctual answer is yes, of course, animals are constantly being trained to communicate a variety of different things. Nollman, however, suggests that true communication is not that simple. He argues that the animal in training is held captive and programmed to learn the way humans do, without acknowledging the way they might *already* do. True communication, therefore, should be based off of mutual respect. Both participants should have equal power to decide the course and subject of the learning experience. This is not always the case, so according to Nollman, true communication is actually rather difficult to achieve.
Chapter four, Interspecies Protocol, brings up the concept of how we perceive animals, and connects our perception to language. According to Nollman, in order for human beings to fully understand interspecies protocol, we have to first learn to perceive animals in a new way. Kind of like learning a new language in order to best communicate with a foreigner. Most importantly, animals must be viewed as individuals, and quite possibly even as peers. Viewing them as equals allows a kind of mutual trust and respect to form and develop over time. Only then can we examine and improve the way in which we interact with animals, when both humans and animals start out on equal footing, be it a human footprint or a paw.
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Michelle Safley (04/21/10 00:48:44)
Related animals: Rooster, Turkey, Whale
Chapter one, Turkey Trot, is most interesting following the question, "Can an animal be taught to communicate with a human being?" The instinctual answer is yes, of course, animals are constantly being trained to communicate a variety of different things. Nollman, however, suggests that true communication is not that simple. He argues that the animal in training is held captive and programmed to learn the way humans do, without acknowledging the way they might *already* do. True communication, therefore, should be based off of mutual respect. Both participants should have equal power to decide the course and subject of the learning experience. This is not always the case, so according to Nollman, true communication is actually rather difficult to achieve.
Chapter four, Interspecies Protocol, brings up the concept of how we perceive animals, and connects our perception to language. According to Nollman, in order for human beings to fully understand interspecies protocol, we have to first learn to perceive animals in a new way. Kind of like learning a new language in order to best communicate with a foreigner. Most importantly, animals must be viewed as individuals, and quite possibly even as peers. Viewing them as equals allows a kind of mutual trust and respect to form and develop over time. Only then can we examine and improve the way in which we interact with animals, when both humans and animals start out on equal footing, be it a human footprint or a paw.
Other: Other Related Research
Turkey Vulture - Cathartes Aura
By Cori Arnold (05/11/09 14:45:41)
Related animal: Turkey Vulture
The Turkey Vulture can be found all over the U.S. They have a wide wingspan averaging from 68-72 inches and weighing roughly no more than three pounds. This rapture rarely flaps it wings, but rather soars high overhead. This animal can most commonly be found in desert areas, forests, and subtropical regions. This bird lives throughout most of North and South America, depending on its breeding times. Over the past few generations this birds geographic range has expanded Northward.
At first glance of this bird has an ugly, bare, red head, but when in flight this creature is beautifully, graceful and a joy to watch. Looking up at this bird flying, one can easily mistake it for a hawk, since its flight carries a similar grace and dignity. "There are six subspecies of turkey vultures: three in North America and three in South and Central America. Cathartes aura septentrionalis is found in the eastern United States and west into Minnesota, Kansas, Oklahoma, and eastern Texas. Cathartes aura meridionalis is located mainly west of C. a. septentrionalis and into Baja California, excluding the lower Colorado River valley. Cathartes aura aura is found in the lower Colorado River valley, including most of Arizona, and in southern New Mexico and Texas. Cathartes aura ruficollis is found from Costa Rica south to northern Argentina and east of the Andes, Cathartes aura jota is found in the highlands of southern Colombia through Argentina, and Cathartes aura falklandica is found west of the Andes from Ecuador and Peru through Chile and on the Falkland Islands. (Palmer, 1988.)" The lifespan of this non-human animal is unclear and can range anywhere from an average of 10 years up to 17 years.
This bird is a scavenger and feeds primarily on carnage of already killed animals, ranging from, other birds, small animals, and some larger animals. "The Turkey Vulture forages by smell[citation needed], an ability that is uncommon in the avian world. It often will fly low to the ground to pick up the scent of ethyl mercaptan, a gas produced by the beginnings of decay in dead animals[citation needed]. The olfactory lobe of its brain, responsible for processing smells, is particularly large compared to that of other animals.[7] This heightened ability to detect odors allows it to search for carrion below the forest canopy. King Vultures and Black Vultures, which lack the ability to smell carrion, follow the Turkey Vulture to carcasses. The Turkey Vulture arrives first at the carcass, or with Greater Yellow-headed Vultures or Lesser Yellow-headed Vultures, which also share the ability to smell carrion[citation needed]. It displaces the Yellow-headed Vultures from carcasses due to its larger size,[30] but is displaced in turn by the King Vulture, which makes the first cut into the skin of the dead animal. This allows the smaller, weaker-billed, Turkey Vulture access to food, because it cannot tear the tough hides of larger animals on its own. This is an example of mutual dependence between species.[31] (Wikipedia.)" The Turkey Vulture will cover a span of area as its home until there is no longer food/carrion available for it. Than it moves on to a location were carnage can be abundant for the time being. Their home range is significantly larger in non-agricultural areas.
Many individuals are afraid of the Turkey Vulture, believing that they carry diseases from killing their prey, but they never actually kill their prey and their bodies breakdown any disease which they may have contracted from their prey.
"The Turkey Vulture species receives special legal protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 in the United States,[8] by the Convention for the Protection of Migratory Birds in Canada,[37] and by the Convention for the Protection of Migratory Birds and Game Mammals in Mexico.[37] In the USA it is illegal to take, kill, or possess Turkey Vultures, and violation of the law is punishable by a fine of up to 15,000 US dollars and imprisonment of up to six months.[36] It is listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. Populations appear to remain stable, and it has not reached the threshold of inclusion as a threatened species, which requires a decline of more than 30 percent in ten years or three generations.[1](Wikipedia.)"
Turkey vultures do not have a large range of vocabulary and most of what can be understood of them is grunts, hissing, and barking sounds. These are typically used to deter predators. During mating visual cues are primarily used. To see a sample of their calls, visit: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Turkey_Vulture/id
Palmer, R. 1988. Handbook of North American Birds, Volume 4. New Haven and London: Yale University Press.
Wikipedia. Turkey Vulture. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkey_Vulture.
[Write Comment]
By Cori Arnold (05/11/09 14:45:41)
Related animal: Turkey Vulture
The Turkey Vulture can be found all over the U.S. They have a wide wingspan averaging from 68-72 inches and weighing roughly no more than three pounds. This rapture rarely flaps it wings, but rather soars high overhead. This animal can most commonly be found in desert areas, forests, and subtropical regions. This bird lives throughout most of North and South America, depending on its breeding times. Over the past few generations this birds geographic range has expanded Northward.
At first glance of this bird has an ugly, bare, red head, but when in flight this creature is beautifully, graceful and a joy to watch. Looking up at this bird flying, one can easily mistake it for a hawk, since its flight carries a similar grace and dignity. "There are six subspecies of turkey vultures: three in North America and three in South and Central America. Cathartes aura septentrionalis is found in the eastern United States and west into Minnesota, Kansas, Oklahoma, and eastern Texas. Cathartes aura meridionalis is located mainly west of C. a. septentrionalis and into Baja California, excluding the lower Colorado River valley. Cathartes aura aura is found in the lower Colorado River valley, including most of Arizona, and in southern New Mexico and Texas. Cathartes aura ruficollis is found from Costa Rica south to northern Argentina and east of the Andes, Cathartes aura jota is found in the highlands of southern Colombia through Argentina, and Cathartes aura falklandica is found west of the Andes from Ecuador and Peru through Chile and on the Falkland Islands. (Palmer, 1988.)" The lifespan of this non-human animal is unclear and can range anywhere from an average of 10 years up to 17 years.
This bird is a scavenger and feeds primarily on carnage of already killed animals, ranging from, other birds, small animals, and some larger animals. "The Turkey Vulture forages by smell[citation needed], an ability that is uncommon in the avian world. It often will fly low to the ground to pick up the scent of ethyl mercaptan, a gas produced by the beginnings of decay in dead animals[citation needed]. The olfactory lobe of its brain, responsible for processing smells, is particularly large compared to that of other animals.[7] This heightened ability to detect odors allows it to search for carrion below the forest canopy. King Vultures and Black Vultures, which lack the ability to smell carrion, follow the Turkey Vulture to carcasses. The Turkey Vulture arrives first at the carcass, or with Greater Yellow-headed Vultures or Lesser Yellow-headed Vultures, which also share the ability to smell carrion[citation needed]. It displaces the Yellow-headed Vultures from carcasses due to its larger size,[30] but is displaced in turn by the King Vulture, which makes the first cut into the skin of the dead animal. This allows the smaller, weaker-billed, Turkey Vulture access to food, because it cannot tear the tough hides of larger animals on its own. This is an example of mutual dependence between species.[31] (Wikipedia.)" The Turkey Vulture will cover a span of area as its home until there is no longer food/carrion available for it. Than it moves on to a location were carnage can be abundant for the time being. Their home range is significantly larger in non-agricultural areas.
Many individuals are afraid of the Turkey Vulture, believing that they carry diseases from killing their prey, but they never actually kill their prey and their bodies breakdown any disease which they may have contracted from their prey.
"The Turkey Vulture species receives special legal protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 in the United States,[8] by the Convention for the Protection of Migratory Birds in Canada,[37] and by the Convention for the Protection of Migratory Birds and Game Mammals in Mexico.[37] In the USA it is illegal to take, kill, or possess Turkey Vultures, and violation of the law is punishable by a fine of up to 15,000 US dollars and imprisonment of up to six months.[36] It is listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. Populations appear to remain stable, and it has not reached the threshold of inclusion as a threatened species, which requires a decline of more than 30 percent in ten years or three generations.[1](Wikipedia.)"
Turkey vultures do not have a large range of vocabulary and most of what can be understood of them is grunts, hissing, and barking sounds. These are typically used to deter predators. During mating visual cues are primarily used. To see a sample of their calls, visit: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Turkey_Vulture/id
Palmer, R. 1988. Handbook of North American Birds, Volume 4. New Haven and London: Yale University Press.
Wikipedia. Turkey Vulture. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkey_Vulture.
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Baby Turkey Vulture |
Turkey Vulture in flight; what to look for when your standing underneath this bird. | |
Map of animals territories | 
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Reflection: Animal Play Behavior
Turtle Attack
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:36:24)
Related animals: Mallard Duck, Pond Life, Tadpole, Tortoise
I went back yet again with just bread this time. The ducks were again trampling the turtles to get to the bread. I was starting to think these ducks are pretty mean. The mother was there with her ducklings again, but they were out and about no longer attached at their mother's side. Two of the ducks were sleeping near their mother who was also sleeping, but the other two were frolicking about in the water. I was watching them play as some turtles came up to the bank where I was and just observed me, when I took my camera out to take a photo they got scared and ran away. It was sort of silly. A little later I saw a large turtle trying to bite the ducklings. Then a woman told me that their used to be six ducklings, but the turtles got to them. That is so crazy to me. I thought the ducks were the mean ones and I had no idea turtles were into that. I thought they were strict vegetarians. So with the help of this woman we ushered the ducklings towards their mother so they wouldn't get chomped on any further by the turtles.
I also randomly saw a huge koi fish in the pond. I've never seen one that size, it was magnificent.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:36:24)
Related animals: Mallard Duck, Pond Life, Tadpole, Tortoise
I went back yet again with just bread this time. The ducks were again trampling the turtles to get to the bread. I was starting to think these ducks are pretty mean. The mother was there with her ducklings again, but they were out and about no longer attached at their mother's side. Two of the ducks were sleeping near their mother who was also sleeping, but the other two were frolicking about in the water. I was watching them play as some turtles came up to the bank where I was and just observed me, when I took my camera out to take a photo they got scared and ran away. It was sort of silly. A little later I saw a large turtle trying to bite the ducklings. Then a woman told me that their used to be six ducklings, but the turtles got to them. That is so crazy to me. I thought the ducks were the mean ones and I had no idea turtles were into that. I thought they were strict vegetarians. So with the help of this woman we ushered the ducklings towards their mother so they wouldn't get chomped on any further by the turtles.
I also randomly saw a huge koi fish in the pond. I've never seen one that size, it was magnificent.
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Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
Turtles and Ducks
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:27:22)
Related animals: Mallard Duck, Turtle
The next time I went to see the ducks and turtles I brought them food. I brought cucumber pieces for the turtles, because this is what my friends with these types of turtles fed them and bread for the ducks. I first went to give the turtles their food, but soon realized only the large turtles would eat the cucumber pieces and a few small ones. I hung out with one turtle who didn't seem to mind I was sitting so close to it, the rest would jump into the water, but they were younger turtles. I then threw the turtles a little bit of bread and they were swarming around and fighting each other for it. They must have gotten used to people throwing bread into the pond I thought. Soon the ducks came over realizing I was throwing bread. They were rather vigorous and mean to the turtles, swimming over them to get to the bread. I shortly ran out of my food supply. I went to a different part of the pond to sit with the ducks again. A woman pointed out to me a mother with her ducklings and I sat and observed them for a long while. The ducklings had difficulty getting in and out of the water and would stay by their mother's side at all times. They even sat under her to sleep, it was so interesting.
[Write Comment]
By Sara Selmic (05/13/13 12:27:22)
Related animals: Mallard Duck, Turtle
The next time I went to see the ducks and turtles I brought them food. I brought cucumber pieces for the turtles, because this is what my friends with these types of turtles fed them and bread for the ducks. I first went to give the turtles their food, but soon realized only the large turtles would eat the cucumber pieces and a few small ones. I hung out with one turtle who didn't seem to mind I was sitting so close to it, the rest would jump into the water, but they were younger turtles. I then threw the turtles a little bit of bread and they were swarming around and fighting each other for it. They must have gotten used to people throwing bread into the pond I thought. Soon the ducks came over realizing I was throwing bread. They were rather vigorous and mean to the turtles, swimming over them to get to the bread. I shortly ran out of my food supply. I went to a different part of the pond to sit with the ducks again. A woman pointed out to me a mother with her ducklings and I sat and observed them for a long while. The ducklings had difficulty getting in and out of the water and would stay by their mother's side at all times. They even sat under her to sleep, it was so interesting.
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Reflection: Non-Art Interspecies Collaborations
UCSB "Reef"
By Michael Walter Lambert (05/05/09 18:09:36)
Related animals: Crab, Pond Life, Star Fish, Tiger Shark
Our trip to the reef at the UCSB or the Marine Science Institute gave me a chance to interact with sea life that I normally would never encounter. I had only brief experiences with this kind of sea life in the past. This sea life was very interesting. Most of the animals had no heads, I guess you could say they were very basic. I wonder how much the think. It was great to get to touch some of these animals even I was initially timid. I was curious but a little scared. It is interesting to feel life that you don't understand. My inability to understand these animals makes it difficult for me to think of a collaboration with them that they would approve of. However basic the sea life they were still fascinating. They were prickly, sticky, gooey and seemingly content. There were also crabs and tiger sharks. One of the sharks seemed to be doing something of a dance near the surface of the water. The rest of the sharks were less playful. Some of the animals interacted and some didn't. The octopus was shy and so too was the lobster. The fish were of different sizes. It would be interesting to find the likes and dislikes of the starfish, the animal that I thought exemplified the group, and to collaborate accordingly.
[Write Comment]
By Michael Walter Lambert (05/05/09 18:09:36)
Related animals: Crab, Pond Life, Star Fish, Tiger Shark
Our trip to the reef at the UCSB or the Marine Science Institute gave me a chance to interact with sea life that I normally would never encounter. I had only brief experiences with this kind of sea life in the past. This sea life was very interesting. Most of the animals had no heads, I guess you could say they were very basic. I wonder how much the think. It was great to get to touch some of these animals even I was initially timid. I was curious but a little scared. It is interesting to feel life that you don't understand. My inability to understand these animals makes it difficult for me to think of a collaboration with them that they would approve of. However basic the sea life they were still fascinating. They were prickly, sticky, gooey and seemingly content. There were also crabs and tiger sharks. One of the sharks seemed to be doing something of a dance near the surface of the water. The rest of the sharks were less playful. Some of the animals interacted and some didn't. The octopus was shy and so too was the lobster. The fish were of different sizes. It would be interesting to find the likes and dislikes of the starfish, the animal that I thought exemplified the group, and to collaborate accordingly.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Non-Human Animal Perception and Cognition
unexpected collabortation
By Jenna Ferri (05/07/10 11:33:27)
Related animal: Dog
This past week I had an unexpected collaboration with a dog I had never met. This dog whom we nicknamed yoda due to his appearance was sitting outside sweet alley waiting for his owner. Yoda was waiting patiently and had the sweetest look on his face so I decided to try and collaborate with him. I wanted to see life from his perspective so I layed down next to him and see what he was experiencing.
The most unusual thing happened, when I laid down with my elbows on the floor but my knees still supporting me, he mocked my pose and shifted his body to bow down like mine was. He was so perceptive to how I was moving and he felt he needed to mock it to form an unspoken bond. I tried another position and yet again he followed my moves. We had this connection though not for long between the two of us that was pretty magical.
Attached is a picture of him bowing right after I had gotten onto the ground.
[Write Comment]
Comment by LisaJ (06/14/10 17:15:31):
great impulse and picture!
By Jenna Ferri (05/07/10 11:33:27)
Related animal: Dog
This past week I had an unexpected collaboration with a dog I had never met. This dog whom we nicknamed yoda due to his appearance was sitting outside sweet alley waiting for his owner. Yoda was waiting patiently and had the sweetest look on his face so I decided to try and collaborate with him. I wanted to see life from his perspective so I layed down next to him and see what he was experiencing.
The most unusual thing happened, when I laid down with my elbows on the floor but my knees still supporting me, he mocked my pose and shifted his body to bow down like mine was. He was so perceptive to how I was moving and he felt he needed to mock it to form an unspoken bond. I tried another position and yet again he followed my moves. We had this connection though not for long between the two of us that was pretty magical.
Attached is a picture of him bowing right after I had gotten onto the ground.
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Comment by LisaJ (06/14/10 17:15:31):
great impulse and picture!
Unlocking the Secrets of Communication-Dolphin Mysteries
By Andrea Chase (05/12/10 17:49:30)
Related animal: Dolphin
The interaction of dolphins with other dolphins is a complex process that many humans, including myself, can not fully understand. Upon reflecting on the myriad of social stigmas, taboos, rules, regulations, interpretations and actions humans engage in during human-human interactions, I am at a loss to even imagine the social system of another highly intelligent and social creature such as a dolphin. With each interaction a human has there is undoubtedly an immense stream of thoughts and impressions that form due to certain environmental shapings. Whether prejudice and discrimination, or love and generosity humans form extremely strong mental impressions that often are carried throughout life. I wonder what kind of impressions dolphins form. Are they as cynical? Or are they more open? Does it vary tremendously in individual dolphins as it does in humans? Obviously the environment and past must play a part in the impressions formed as well. It would be extremely interesting to divulge into the social system of dolphins, especially dolphins of differing types and species. Do they discriminate against eachother through a lack of interacting with any other than their own? The reading briefly discusses the interaction of dolphins and manatees together. Is this a regular find? or irregular and only due to certain environmental pressures? I guess my dream of an extensive networking of dolphins is even farther from possible than a human networking of reactions and emotions from intercultural and interhuman interactions.
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (05/12/10 17:49:30)
Related animal: Dolphin
The interaction of dolphins with other dolphins is a complex process that many humans, including myself, can not fully understand. Upon reflecting on the myriad of social stigmas, taboos, rules, regulations, interpretations and actions humans engage in during human-human interactions, I am at a loss to even imagine the social system of another highly intelligent and social creature such as a dolphin. With each interaction a human has there is undoubtedly an immense stream of thoughts and impressions that form due to certain environmental shapings. Whether prejudice and discrimination, or love and generosity humans form extremely strong mental impressions that often are carried throughout life. I wonder what kind of impressions dolphins form. Are they as cynical? Or are they more open? Does it vary tremendously in individual dolphins as it does in humans? Obviously the environment and past must play a part in the impressions formed as well. It would be extremely interesting to divulge into the social system of dolphins, especially dolphins of differing types and species. Do they discriminate against eachother through a lack of interacting with any other than their own? The reading briefly discusses the interaction of dolphins and manatees together. Is this a regular find? or irregular and only due to certain environmental pressures? I guess my dream of an extensive networking of dolphins is even farther from possible than a human networking of reactions and emotions from intercultural and interhuman interactions.
[Write Comment]
: Other Related Research
VIDEO COMPRESSION INSTRUCTIONS
By Tyler Beckert (05/30/06 11:12:16)
Related animal: Human
Here are instructions to compress videos for the web. You will need Quicktime Pro or Flash, both available in the University computer labs.
Instructions for video compression using Quicktime Pro:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Open the full size video in Quicktime Player (registered Pro version only).
2. Select File --> Export from the menu.
3. Leave it set to "Movie to Quicktime Movie"
4. You can adjust the video compression settings more by clicking the Options button., or simply click OK to use the defaut settings, which work just fine.
5. Click OK, and a compressed version of your video will be saved to the specified directory.
Instructions for video compression using Macromedia Flash:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Start Flash, and create a new Flash document.
2. Set your document size to the size of your movie (i.e. 640 x 480)
3. Select File --> Import to Stage
4. Select your video, and if prompted, choose to Embed the entire video in your document, and to Import the entire video
5. In the next window, select DSL/Cable 512 for the compression profile
6. Click Finish, and wait for the video to finish importing.
7. Make sure your video is lined up properly within the Flash document. (X=0, Y=0)
8. Choose File --> Export --> Export Movie from the menu.
9. Choose desired format. Flash Movie (.swf) is perfect for web. Flash can export Quicktime movies, but the compression isn't as good.
10. Choose quality settings and then export. I typically choose the highest possible JPEG quality to minimize quality loss.
[Write Comment]
By Tyler Beckert (05/30/06 11:12:16)
Related animal: Human
Here are instructions to compress videos for the web. You will need Quicktime Pro or Flash, both available in the University computer labs.
Instructions for video compression using Quicktime Pro:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Open the full size video in Quicktime Player (registered Pro version only).
2. Select File --> Export from the menu.
3. Leave it set to "Movie to Quicktime Movie"
4. You can adjust the video compression settings more by clicking the Options button., or simply click OK to use the defaut settings, which work just fine.
5. Click OK, and a compressed version of your video will be saved to the specified directory.
Instructions for video compression using Macromedia Flash:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Start Flash, and create a new Flash document.
2. Set your document size to the size of your movie (i.e. 640 x 480)
3. Select File --> Import to Stage
4. Select your video, and if prompted, choose to Embed the entire video in your document, and to Import the entire video
5. In the next window, select DSL/Cable 512 for the compression profile
6. Click Finish, and wait for the video to finish importing.
7. Make sure your video is lined up properly within the Flash document. (X=0, Y=0)
8. Choose File --> Export --> Export Movie from the menu.
9. Choose desired format. Flash Movie (.swf) is perfect for web. Flash can export Quicktime movies, but the compression isn't as good.
10. Choose quality settings and then export. I typically choose the highest possible JPEG quality to minimize quality loss.
[Write Comment]
Walking with Giants & the Grizzly man
By Avid Mozaffarian (05/20/10 11:38:38)
In “Walking with the Giants” the two researcher couple took on the task of reintroducing 3 bear cubs to the wild on an Island called Kamchatca off of Russia. Their minimal interference with the cub’s process of collecting food and learning how to hunt was a very positive way. I do wish they would of kept the Island secure of hunting bears from hunters by getting help from the government and restricting some laws. The researchers interaction with the other bears on the Island for the researchers might have been positive, but from the bears perspective it had a negative effect. They allowed the bears to trust humans to some extend and that made it easier for hunters to get closer to the bears and hunt them.
On the other side of the spectrum, in “Grizzly Man” the same basic concept was created. I do believe his interaction with the bears for such a long period of time could have been a positive step forward for human interaction and understanding of bears to know what each noise they make or jester they do means. His move to stay on the Island longer was not a good move. To stay in the territory and deal with unfamiliar bears was a ‘stupid’ move. The releasing of all the films and documentation of the work into the hands of a person that was not on the same page as he was and the creation of the documentary the film maker made, in my opinion only made the guy who spent 13 years living with bears, look like a weirdo and his words not taken seriously. He might had done what he did, living with bears for so long, to make himself feel better, but at the same time he also did an extraordinary and amazing act of bonding with bears and getting close to them. The article interview written by his old friend clearly states the same facts and tries to prove to us that he is not the crazy, weird person that he is being portrayed as in the film documentary.
[Write Comment]
By Avid Mozaffarian (05/20/10 11:38:38)
In “Walking with the Giants” the two researcher couple took on the task of reintroducing 3 bear cubs to the wild on an Island called Kamchatca off of Russia. Their minimal interference with the cub’s process of collecting food and learning how to hunt was a very positive way. I do wish they would of kept the Island secure of hunting bears from hunters by getting help from the government and restricting some laws. The researchers interaction with the other bears on the Island for the researchers might have been positive, but from the bears perspective it had a negative effect. They allowed the bears to trust humans to some extend and that made it easier for hunters to get closer to the bears and hunt them.
On the other side of the spectrum, in “Grizzly Man” the same basic concept was created. I do believe his interaction with the bears for such a long period of time could have been a positive step forward for human interaction and understanding of bears to know what each noise they make or jester they do means. His move to stay on the Island longer was not a good move. To stay in the territory and deal with unfamiliar bears was a ‘stupid’ move. The releasing of all the films and documentation of the work into the hands of a person that was not on the same page as he was and the creation of the documentary the film maker made, in my opinion only made the guy who spent 13 years living with bears, look like a weirdo and his words not taken seriously. He might had done what he did, living with bears for so long, to make himself feel better, but at the same time he also did an extraordinary and amazing act of bonding with bears and getting close to them. The article interview written by his old friend clearly states the same facts and tries to prove to us that he is not the crazy, weird person that he is being portrayed as in the film documentary.
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Communication
Warm trees
By Raymond Douglas (06/08/13 19:21:19)
Related animals: Dog, Human, Tree
Since Barbara Janelle’s visit numerous weeks ago I’ve retained a strong level of appreciation and fondness for the work she does. I must preface by saying that part of me wants to be a devout skeptic over animal and psychic communication. There is simply something to be said about the lack of said communication taking place and being recognized globally since the beginnings of language and animal relationships. I feel the majority of American pet owners talk to their pets in English with a very childish tone to somehow stoop to their level in order to communicate more easily and provide comfort. This is also something I am skeptical about. I believe that high-level communication with animals, if there is such a thing, should consist of a high level of respect for them. Relatively, your pet may be the same age as you, so it would make sense to avoid all inconsiderate behavior about their age and abilities. I see it daily: a person is walking their adorable dog down the street (which could be for a number of reasons – exercise, potty time, or to attract the opposite sex) when a person comes over to greet and hopefully pet this cute animal. As they make first contact, they say, in a baby-like voice, “Helllooooo, little guy! How are you today?” During times like these, my want to be a skeptic is thrown aside as I wonder what an animal communicator could glean from such a scenario. If it were capable of a higher lever of cognition and communication, would the pet enjoy being treated like a small, infantile creature? Or would it be instantly offended and seek retaliation by backing away, growling, or going for the bite of the hand? My curious mind thankfully permits my thoughts to go wild and embrace difficult to grasp ideas. So, with such preconceptions I came into the class with Barbara with hopes for reaching an understanding that I had yet to grasp. We started with inter-human exercises and then were tasked with venturing out onto the campus to locate a tree, walk towards it, touch it, walk away, and return to it to place our backs against the trunk. At this point we were to ask the tree a question that, as a very passive creature, was to answer in a very physical and powerful way. I found a large pine tree down by the papermaking lab, touched it, walked away, and then returned to it to ask if things would change in the ways I anticipated after graduation. Sure, a typical, almost cliché question, but I was crazy curious to what kind of response I would get. I asked, I waited, and then my chest, as my back remained against the tree’s trunk, began to get warmer in a most comfortable way. My skeptical side wanted to disregard this sensation as one of some other biological function, but I couldn’t ignore it. Since it was such a positive, relaxing feeling, I took that to mean that things will go as planned. I thanked the tree and walked back to class without looking backwards. As Barbara commenced the actual animal communication workshop with Laurel’s dog, Abby, I couldn’t help but to think of my experience with the tree and much more profound it was than my inability to communicate with Abby. Maybe I’m a tree person?
[Write Comment]
By Raymond Douglas (06/08/13 19:21:19)
Related animals: Dog, Human, Tree
Since Barbara Janelle’s visit numerous weeks ago I’ve retained a strong level of appreciation and fondness for the work she does. I must preface by saying that part of me wants to be a devout skeptic over animal and psychic communication. There is simply something to be said about the lack of said communication taking place and being recognized globally since the beginnings of language and animal relationships. I feel the majority of American pet owners talk to their pets in English with a very childish tone to somehow stoop to their level in order to communicate more easily and provide comfort. This is also something I am skeptical about. I believe that high-level communication with animals, if there is such a thing, should consist of a high level of respect for them. Relatively, your pet may be the same age as you, so it would make sense to avoid all inconsiderate behavior about their age and abilities. I see it daily: a person is walking their adorable dog down the street (which could be for a number of reasons – exercise, potty time, or to attract the opposite sex) when a person comes over to greet and hopefully pet this cute animal. As they make first contact, they say, in a baby-like voice, “Helllooooo, little guy! How are you today?” During times like these, my want to be a skeptic is thrown aside as I wonder what an animal communicator could glean from such a scenario. If it were capable of a higher lever of cognition and communication, would the pet enjoy being treated like a small, infantile creature? Or would it be instantly offended and seek retaliation by backing away, growling, or going for the bite of the hand? My curious mind thankfully permits my thoughts to go wild and embrace difficult to grasp ideas. So, with such preconceptions I came into the class with Barbara with hopes for reaching an understanding that I had yet to grasp. We started with inter-human exercises and then were tasked with venturing out onto the campus to locate a tree, walk towards it, touch it, walk away, and return to it to place our backs against the trunk. At this point we were to ask the tree a question that, as a very passive creature, was to answer in a very physical and powerful way. I found a large pine tree down by the papermaking lab, touched it, walked away, and then returned to it to ask if things would change in the ways I anticipated after graduation. Sure, a typical, almost cliché question, but I was crazy curious to what kind of response I would get. I asked, I waited, and then my chest, as my back remained against the tree’s trunk, began to get warmer in a most comfortable way. My skeptical side wanted to disregard this sensation as one of some other biological function, but I couldn’t ignore it. Since it was such a positive, relaxing feeling, I took that to mean that things will go as planned. I thanked the tree and walked back to class without looking backwards. As Barbara commenced the actual animal communication workshop with Laurel’s dog, Abby, I couldn’t help but to think of my experience with the tree and much more profound it was than my inability to communicate with Abby. Maybe I’m a tree person?
[Write Comment]
Reflection: Interspecies Relationships
week 6- grizzly man response
By Evan Hynes (06/07/10 22:57:01)
Related animal: Bear
Before actually watching th entirety of Werner Herzog's film, Grizzly Man, I had already formed my opinion of Timothy Treadwell's work with bears--that his work with bears was foolish, and that his death was inevitable because of his work's foolish nature. I had based this off of hearing many people comment on the film; it seemed to be the message of the film. In fact, after watching Grizzly Man, I can confidently say that this is probably the message the film maker was going for. He portrays Timothy Treadwell as a risk-taker and a dare devil. After reading a response to the film by a friend of Timothy Treadwell's, Charlie Russell, however, I now have a different view of Timothy Treadwell's work with bears. Yes, it is true Timothy Treadwell was taking a major risk when working with bears. But the fact that he spent many winters of many years, and upward of 3500 hours working, interacting, and living peacefully (until his death) with bears needs to be recognized not as the crazy act of a flamboyant wild life advocate, but rather as an astonishing, worthy point being made in a physical sense; the fact that he spent so much time living with bears shows that bears are not necessarily dangerous by nature. Instead, I would argue that although bears can be dangerous, it is our presence around them that causes the danger--yet with the right understanding of them and the knowledge of how they live, bears and humans can exist in the same environment theoretically, with no negative impacts on either groups. This point that is also argued in Russell's text about Treadwell, is unfortunately overshadowed by Treadwell's death and the portrayal of his death in Herzog's film. Nontheless, Herzog is a talented film maker, and I did enjoy the film, but it was very important for me to read Russell's response because it shed light on the life and work of Treadwell in an alternative way.
[Write Comment]
By Evan Hynes (06/07/10 22:57:01)
Related animal: Bear
Before actually watching th entirety of Werner Herzog's film, Grizzly Man, I had already formed my opinion of Timothy Treadwell's work with bears--that his work with bears was foolish, and that his death was inevitable because of his work's foolish nature. I had based this off of hearing many people comment on the film; it seemed to be the message of the film. In fact, after watching Grizzly Man, I can confidently say that this is probably the message the film maker was going for. He portrays Timothy Treadwell as a risk-taker and a dare devil. After reading a response to the film by a friend of Timothy Treadwell's, Charlie Russell, however, I now have a different view of Timothy Treadwell's work with bears. Yes, it is true Timothy Treadwell was taking a major risk when working with bears. But the fact that he spent many winters of many years, and upward of 3500 hours working, interacting, and living peacefully (until his death) with bears needs to be recognized not as the crazy act of a flamboyant wild life advocate, but rather as an astonishing, worthy point being made in a physical sense; the fact that he spent so much time living with bears shows that bears are not necessarily dangerous by nature. Instead, I would argue that although bears can be dangerous, it is our presence around them that causes the danger--yet with the right understanding of them and the knowledge of how they live, bears and humans can exist in the same environment theoretically, with no negative impacts on either groups. This point that is also argued in Russell's text about Treadwell, is unfortunately overshadowed by Treadwell's death and the portrayal of his death in Herzog's film. Nontheless, Herzog is a talented film maker, and I did enjoy the film, but it was very important for me to read Russell's response because it shed light on the life and work of Treadwell in an alternative way.
[Write Comment]
Other: Other Related Research
West Highland White Terriers
By Michael Walter Lambert (05/09/09 18:22:07)
Related animal: Dog
My project is on the dog. More specifically the breed West Highland White Terrier. More commonly known just as the "Westie."
History: Dogs descended from the wolf. The first domestication of the wolf was about 12,000 years ago. Humans discovered the wolf as a great asset as a pet who could hunt along side us and guard us while we slept. Dogs learned to cooperate with humans through thousands of years of evolution and adaption in human society. As years went by the wolf began to mutate into different breeds, through natural mutation, different climates, and environments. Different dogs were able to be grouped as hunters, herders, guard watchers, and companion and lap dogs. Westies are mainly companions but can be used as guard dogs despite their small size.
West Highland White Terrier (facts and descriptions): Originally from Scotland the Westie could be described as robust, friendly, cocky, and spunky. Friendly even to strangers and get along well with children. They are self assured towards other dogs but will not pick fights with other dogs. Westies love companionship. Westies are small about a foot tall and weigh about 22 lbs. Known for their distinctive white coat, a two inch white coat uncurled with a soft dense undercoat that should be groomed regularly. They have dark deepset eyes with a penetrating gaze. Described as sturdy, hardy, and compact. Their ears are small, pointed, and erect. Their tail is roughly six inches long and they have muscular limbs. They have a short close fitted jaw, a convex jaw, and. thickly padded paws. Westies are easy to train and like to bark and dig. Originally bred for controlling populations of rats, foxes, and other vermin. The breed gained its distinctive coat after Colonel Edward Malcolm' s red terrier was mistaken for a fox and shot. Malcolm only bred white westies to distinguish it from game.
Dog senses (although vary): A dogs sense of smell is by far their most acute. Some say it is immeasurably better than that of humans but others measure it at about 100,000 times that of a human. This helps with tasks such as finding missing persons, digging underground, and tracing toxic substances. Dogs can detect drugs, explosives, and the scent of their masters. Dogs have a generally poor or weak sense of taste, and will eat almost anything. The dogs next greatest sense is that of hearing, also much greater than a humans ability, with the ability to filter out distracting noises. Dogs can identify prey, predators, as well as their origin based on sound. Dogs have relatively poor eyesight and are technically color blind although they can discern different colors by their shade of grey. Sight is practical for dogs. They can detect movement from a far. Also dogs can see better in poor light than humans and have a better visual range roughly 180 degrees. Dogs can't always identify what they see so they must rely on their other senses. Dogs are sensitive to touch, their bodies are covered with sensitive nerve endings.
Play Behavior: Play behavior was the subject of my art project with my dog the westie Mac! Mac and I painted a picture out of mud with our extremities, played life guard and soccer. As we know dogs love to play, they play ball and chase wheels. Forms of play for dogs are to lick, bark, nip, chew, dig, rough house, and fetch. Other interesting facts, dogs are known to be telepathic and help as healers for the sick (dogs help patients through periods of illness).
[Write Comment]
By Michael Walter Lambert (05/09/09 18:22:07)
Related animal: Dog
My project is on the dog. More specifically the breed West Highland White Terrier. More commonly known just as the "Westie."
History: Dogs descended from the wolf. The first domestication of the wolf was about 12,000 years ago. Humans discovered the wolf as a great asset as a pet who could hunt along side us and guard us while we slept. Dogs learned to cooperate with humans through thousands of years of evolution and adaption in human society. As years went by the wolf began to mutate into different breeds, through natural mutation, different climates, and environments. Different dogs were able to be grouped as hunters, herders, guard watchers, and companion and lap dogs. Westies are mainly companions but can be used as guard dogs despite their small size.
West Highland White Terrier (facts and descriptions): Originally from Scotland the Westie could be described as robust, friendly, cocky, and spunky. Friendly even to strangers and get along well with children. They are self assured towards other dogs but will not pick fights with other dogs. Westies love companionship. Westies are small about a foot tall and weigh about 22 lbs. Known for their distinctive white coat, a two inch white coat uncurled with a soft dense undercoat that should be groomed regularly. They have dark deepset eyes with a penetrating gaze. Described as sturdy, hardy, and compact. Their ears are small, pointed, and erect. Their tail is roughly six inches long and they have muscular limbs. They have a short close fitted jaw, a convex jaw, and. thickly padded paws. Westies are easy to train and like to bark and dig. Originally bred for controlling populations of rats, foxes, and other vermin. The breed gained its distinctive coat after Colonel Edward Malcolm' s red terrier was mistaken for a fox and shot. Malcolm only bred white westies to distinguish it from game.
Dog senses (although vary): A dogs sense of smell is by far their most acute. Some say it is immeasurably better than that of humans but others measure it at about 100,000 times that of a human. This helps with tasks such as finding missing persons, digging underground, and tracing toxic substances. Dogs can detect drugs, explosives, and the scent of their masters. Dogs have a generally poor or weak sense of taste, and will eat almost anything. The dogs next greatest sense is that of hearing, also much greater than a humans ability, with the ability to filter out distracting noises. Dogs can identify prey, predators, as well as their origin based on sound. Dogs have relatively poor eyesight and are technically color blind although they can discern different colors by their shade of grey. Sight is practical for dogs. They can detect movement from a far. Also dogs can see better in poor light than humans and have a better visual range roughly 180 degrees. Dogs can't always identify what they see so they must rely on their other senses. Dogs are sensitive to touch, their bodies are covered with sensitive nerve endings.
Play Behavior: Play behavior was the subject of my art project with my dog the westie Mac! Mac and I painted a picture out of mud with our extremities, played life guard and soccer. As we know dogs love to play, they play ball and chase wheels. Forms of play for dogs are to lick, bark, nip, chew, dig, rough house, and fetch. Other interesting facts, dogs are known to be telepathic and help as healers for the sick (dogs help patients through periods of illness).
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whale man book
By Evan Hynes (04/22/10 21:59:11)
In Jim Nollman’s first chapter of his book, The Man Who Talks to Whales, pretty much just covers a basic background on his experience communicating with animals. He makes it really easy for the reader to relate to his stories because his writing style is not dense and doesn’t take itself too seriously. He talks about his encounters with such curious animals as deer, turkeys, snakes, fish, etc. He is a good writer, so it immediately drew me in to the stories and helped me have confidence that I too will experience an encounter with an animal that is willing to work with me in an artistic collaboration.
The second chapter we had to read focused on interspecies collaborations between non-human species and humans. It talked about how bushmen would somehow convince lions to stop making so much noise at night, and the symbiotic relationship between clownfish and sea anemones. The reading was definitely a nice supplement to his visit and talk. He definitely has a lot of knowledge to share and I plan on contacting him if I decide to do something related to his experience working with animals.
[Write Comment]
By Evan Hynes (04/22/10 21:59:11)
In Jim Nollman’s first chapter of his book, The Man Who Talks to Whales, pretty much just covers a basic background on his experience communicating with animals. He makes it really easy for the reader to relate to his stories because his writing style is not dense and doesn’t take itself too seriously. He talks about his encounters with such curious animals as deer, turkeys, snakes, fish, etc. He is a good writer, so it immediately drew me in to the stories and helped me have confidence that I too will experience an encounter with an animal that is willing to work with me in an artistic collaboration.
The second chapter we had to read focused on interspecies collaborations between non-human species and humans. It talked about how bushmen would somehow convince lions to stop making so much noise at night, and the symbiotic relationship between clownfish and sea anemones. The reading was definitely a nice supplement to his visit and talk. He definitely has a lot of knowledge to share and I plan on contacting him if I decide to do something related to his experience working with animals.
[Write Comment]
Whale watching
By Megan Mueller (05/31/14 18:47:35)
I went whale watching on a sail boat on May 18th. We saw seven grey whales (5 adults and 2 babies) not far off shore roughly around the mesa area of Santa Barbara. Apparently, this is uncharacteristically late in the season to see whales.
The captain had heard that there were a bunch of whales right around the corner from the harbor. So we hurried over to the area where they were last spotted. I scanned the water looking for any sign of movement and after about 10 minutes we saw water erupt into the air from what we could assume was the whales blow hole about 100 yards from us. We began to get closer to the whales and ended up spending 2 hours following behind them up the coast. We approached cautiously but over the course of the afternoon, seemed to get more comfortable with them and vice versa. They swam quite close to the boat on a couple occasions. The energy on the sail boat was electric. We were mostly quite and dedicated to looking at the water. The whales would submerge during periods of the time and reappear to gasps and laughter on the boat. Dolphins also appeared to be swimming with the whales for a period time. One of my most distinct memories of the day was the sound of water exiting the blow hole. The human equivalent would be trying to exhale forcefully through the closed lips of your mouth times 1000. The whales were such a physical presence. At one point a whale breeched its entire head out of the water. Basically appearing to be vertical in its orientation. I saw a whale's face!
[Write Comment]
By Megan Mueller (05/31/14 18:47:35)
I went whale watching on a sail boat on May 18th. We saw seven grey whales (5 adults and 2 babies) not far off shore roughly around the mesa area of Santa Barbara. Apparently, this is uncharacteristically late in the season to see whales.
The captain had heard that there were a bunch of whales right around the corner from the harbor. So we hurried over to the area where they were last spotted. I scanned the water looking for any sign of movement and after about 10 minutes we saw water erupt into the air from what we could assume was the whales blow hole about 100 yards from us. We began to get closer to the whales and ended up spending 2 hours following behind them up the coast. We approached cautiously but over the course of the afternoon, seemed to get more comfortable with them and vice versa. They swam quite close to the boat on a couple occasions. The energy on the sail boat was electric. We were mostly quite and dedicated to looking at the water. The whales would submerge during periods of the time and reappear to gasps and laughter on the boat. Dolphins also appeared to be swimming with the whales for a period time. One of my most distinct memories of the day was the sound of water exiting the blow hole. The human equivalent would be trying to exhale forcefully through the closed lips of your mouth times 1000. The whales were such a physical presence. At one point a whale breeched its entire head out of the water. Basically appearing to be vertical in its orientation. I saw a whale's face!
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Other: Interspecies Communication
Whatever you want
By Jorden Hirsch (05/08/10 15:57:32)
Related animal: Dolphin
What I found most interesting about this chapter, was the over wall idea and emphasis on the connection between all living creatures. When discussing the dolphin/ human relationship Nollman uses the dolphins as an important example for the positive and major evolutionary step. “The concept seems a prime example of what co-evolution means: a tenuous first step away from our human role of exploiter to the new role of treating the planet as home and neighborhood…” I believe this is one of the more important things for the development of interspecies communications. If all living creatures are related as Nollman also points out then we have to in some ways be treated on very similar levels.
Nollman poses the question to the reader; do you experience “it”? I do in some ways understand this “it” feeling. In many ways I think “it” manifests in humans as guilt, remorse, an intrinsic instinct to do the right thing or feel responsibility
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Jorden Hirsch (05/08/10 15:57:32)
Related animal: Dolphin
What I found most interesting about this chapter, was the over wall idea and emphasis on the connection between all living creatures. When discussing the dolphin/ human relationship Nollman uses the dolphins as an important example for the positive and major evolutionary step. “The concept seems a prime example of what co-evolution means: a tenuous first step away from our human role of exploiter to the new role of treating the planet as home and neighborhood…” I believe this is one of the more important things for the development of interspecies communications. If all living creatures are related as Nollman also points out then we have to in some ways be treated on very similar levels.
Nollman poses the question to the reader; do you experience “it”? I do in some ways understand this “it” feeling. In many ways I think “it” manifests in humans as guilt, remorse, an intrinsic instinct to do the right thing or feel responsibility
Where have the bunnies gone?
By Andrea Chase (06/03/10 21:51:45)
Related animal: Rabbit
I was looking through various photos of my rabbit friends who live in my yard reflecting on the fact that I have not seen Fredrick or Blackfoot in a couple months. I try not to let me mind wander to the darker thoughts that accompany their absence. For even if the worse has happened, ie death, it is a necessary part of life and a natural progression that we humans tend to obsess upon unnaturally. Since we are so removed from daily struggles for survival, unlike wild animals, we have come to fear that which is ultimately inevitable; whereas the wild face death daily only to persevere to survive another day. Anyway I find myself wondering where have all the bunnies gone?
[Write Comment]
By Andrea Chase (06/03/10 21:51:45)
Related animal: Rabbit
I was looking through various photos of my rabbit friends who live in my yard reflecting on the fact that I have not seen Fredrick or Blackfoot in a couple months. I try not to let me mind wander to the darker thoughts that accompany their absence. For even if the worse has happened, ie death, it is a necessary part of life and a natural progression that we humans tend to obsess upon unnaturally. Since we are so removed from daily struggles for survival, unlike wild animals, we have come to fear that which is ultimately inevitable; whereas the wild face death daily only to persevere to survive another day. Anyway I find myself wondering where have all the bunnies gone?
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whistle
By nikki leone (06/11/10 12:06:40)
Related animal: Dolphin
During our Dolphin Excursion, I've been able to document something that Toni has told me about. She had said to listen for a certain sound that the dolphins sometime make when they jump out of the water. During our 4:30 documentation of the trip, I was able to capture this sound.
@ :23 mark you can hear the sharp whistle the dolphin makes when leaping out of the water.
[Write Comment]
By nikki leone (06/11/10 12:06:40)
Related animal: Dolphin
During our Dolphin Excursion, I've been able to document something that Toni has told me about. She had said to listen for a certain sound that the dolphins sometime make when they jump out of the water. During our 4:30 documentation of the trip, I was able to capture this sound.
@ :23 mark you can hear the sharp whistle the dolphin makes when leaping out of the water.
Working with Len
By Norah Eldredge Martin C. Shaver (05/18/10 09:40:01)
Related animal: Cat
Lenn is getting much more interested in the art project. He seems to know that this is something I enjoy to do with him and he never misses the chance to come over and help me out.
I am also in a drawing class and have been working on the floor a lot lately. It was never uncommon for him to join me on the floor and try to get on the paper, but now he is unstoppable! He practically ran upstairs and lept on the paper with hunter-like qualities. Needless to say, that left the paper slightly rumpled, so I may not use it in the drawings' final collective. Perhaps I will try a new group of pieces made up of paper Lenn has attacked and crumpled!
Overall, I feel like our progress is very good and we will finish the quarter with a great variety of Lenn/Norah pieces.
[Write Comment]
By Norah Eldredge Martin C. Shaver (05/18/10 09:40:01)
Related animal: Cat
Lenn is getting much more interested in the art project. He seems to know that this is something I enjoy to do with him and he never misses the chance to come over and help me out.
I am also in a drawing class and have been working on the floor a lot lately. It was never uncommon for him to join me on the floor and try to get on the paper, but now he is unstoppable! He practically ran upstairs and lept on the paper with hunter-like qualities. Needless to say, that left the paper slightly rumpled, so I may not use it in the drawings' final collective. Perhaps I will try a new group of pieces made up of paper Lenn has attacked and crumpled!
Overall, I feel like our progress is very good and we will finish the quarter with a great variety of Lenn/Norah pieces.
[Write Comment]
Other: Art Made Together with Non-Human Animals
Wwwwhales
By Sarina Martinez (04/21/10 22:52:52)
Related animal: Whale
Reading selections from Jim Nolman's brought about interesting ideas with regards to "collaborating" with animals. His communication seemed very indirect, and at times one sided. By this I mean there was no collaboration between Jim Nolman and the whales before hand. It was all actions and tasks that he set out and hoped that the whales would interact. This passive type of interaction could lead to some interesting reactions or none at all.
Another thing that I found interesting was the patience it took to accomplish the recordings. To spend months on a boat trying to engage the whales shows a great degree of patience and love for what you're doing. To hear him talk about the small instances where the whales might have interacted would be enough for me to stay out there..
The Man Who Talks to Whales: the Art of Interspecies Communication (Book) [Write Comment]
By Sarina Martinez (04/21/10 22:52:52)
Related animal: Whale
Reading selections from Jim Nolman's brought about interesting ideas with regards to "collaborating" with animals. His communication seemed very indirect, and at times one sided. By this I mean there was no collaboration between Jim Nolman and the whales before hand. It was all actions and tasks that he set out and hoped that the whales would interact. This passive type of interaction could lead to some interesting reactions or none at all.
Another thing that I found interesting was the patience it took to accomplish the recordings. To spend months on a boat trying to engage the whales shows a great degree of patience and love for what you're doing. To hear him talk about the small instances where the whales might have interacted would be enough for me to stay out there..
Other: History/Philosophy - Relationship Human/Non-Human
You're so post-modern
By Sarina Martinez (04/21/10 23:18:14)
In this reading the most interesting idea was the inconsistencies of the post-modern framework. It was interesting that there was a disconnection with the purity and "simplicity" of wildlife that was celebrated and the move away from simplicity. Modernity was about boiling things down to its simplest for and getting to the essence. Post-modernity was about keeping those extras, keeping the details because it is in the details that we find the diversity.
I believe there was a dislike for the domesticated pet because they all had become so standardized. There has become a prescribed lifestyle for all the domestic animals. Whether its the small toy yorkie that wears sweaters and travels in a purse or the bounding Lab that fetches tennis balls, there is a pretty standard life that can be predicted. What we get from wildlife is the unpredictable. They are the untouched, the genuine and pure example of an animal.
The Postmodern Animal (Book) [Write Comment]
By Sarina Martinez (04/21/10 23:18:14)
In this reading the most interesting idea was the inconsistencies of the post-modern framework. It was interesting that there was a disconnection with the purity and "simplicity" of wildlife that was celebrated and the move away from simplicity. Modernity was about boiling things down to its simplest for and getting to the essence. Post-modernity was about keeping those extras, keeping the details because it is in the details that we find the diversity.
I believe there was a dislike for the domesticated pet because they all had become so standardized. There has become a prescribed lifestyle for all the domestic animals. Whether its the small toy yorkie that wears sweaters and travels in a purse or the bounding Lab that fetches tennis balls, there is a pretty standard life that can be predicted. What we get from wildlife is the unpredictable. They are the untouched, the genuine and pure example of an animal.