About This Project

Combining art, ecology, genetics, and storytelling to protect and preserve biodiversity using environmental DNA (eDNA) from aquatic life in the Great Lakes.

eDNA captures genetic material in the environment, such as water, shed by organisms through skin cells, feces, or mucus.

By extracting and analyzing this eDNA, we can gain insights into the temporal dimension of a particular ecosystem. Detecting rare, endangered, or difficult to survey species.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Water Warriors combines art and science by transforming scientific data from environmental DNA analysis of the Great Lakes into evocative artifacts - using these as a snapshot or timecapsule of our bioregional diversity in our present day.

The vision is to engage a diverse audience in citizen science.

It also contributes to ecological research by collectively sampling and storing eDNA samples, informing conservation strategies and exploring human-ecosystem relationships.

This data will serve as the foundation for various artistic outputs, including one piece for each of the Great Lakes, creating a symbolic and immersive experience for the public, exhibiting the poetics of science based art works (sci-art).

What is the significance of this project?

The project aims to engage a diverse range of audiences, including local communities, environmental organizations, scientific researchers, artists, and the general public. By reaching out to local environmental groups from each sample site, I intend to collaborate closely with community members to determine the optimal sampling locations. This participatory approach ensures that the project aligns with local conservation efforts and addresses community concerns and priorities.For collaborators, the project offers an opportunity to actively contribute to biodiversity conservation efforts in their region. Engaging in the sampling process and witnessing the scientific analysis of eDNA samples fosters a sense of ownership and stewardship over local ecosystems.

What are the goals of the project?

Firstly, I will share detailed documentation of the project's progress, from the initial sampling process to the creation of artistic outputs. This will include regular updates, and informative videos explaining the significance of eDNA sampling and its impact on biodiversity conservation.

I will produce an audiovisual piece that provides an overview of the project, making complex scientific concepts understandable to a broad audience.

I plan to publish the findings in collaboration with Nature Metrics, to contribute valuable information to conservation efforts.

Once the project is completed, I showcase the research through art pieces. I hope to spark conversations about water health, biodiversity conservation, and the intersection of art and science within our community.