Taylor Cusimano
Contributing Writer
This January, multimedia artist Ethan Turpin and Bren professor Naomi Tauge launched their art-science project, WILDLAND, at the Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum of Art. Just days before the opening, wildfires raged in the Los Angeles area, adding urgency to their message.
The presentation began with a look at the link between fire and water, merging art with science. The recent wildfires provided a timely backdrop for the exhibit, placing it in the context of our changing environment. Tauge pointed out that environmental science goes beyond just watching nature; we need new ways to see what’s hidden. “We need to develop ways of seeing what we cannot observe directly,” she said.
WILDLAND aims to raise awareness about wildfires while exploring the complex interplay between fire and water. It stands out because of the collaborative effort behind it. By blending artistic expression and scientific inquiry, WILDLAND invites people to engage with the science of wildfires in a fresh way.
During a discussion, attendees Stephan and Jean Weeks shared their thoughts on the mix of art and science they witnessed there. Jean, an artist, and Stephan, a scientist, appreciated the collaboration they saw at WILDLAND. They highlighted how creativity and analytical thinking can complement each other, leading to innovative solutions. Stephan pointed out that both fields share similarities, reminding us that diverse perspectives are essential for discovery.
After the discussion, the audience moved to the exhibit. Turpin explained that hosting the project at Westmont was meaningful since the school had suffered during the 2008 Tea Fire. It created a space for healing. “I knew we would have intense conversations around fire, but the show encourages contemplation,” he said.
For some attendees, the exhibit resonated on a personal level. Turpin shared stories from individuals affected by the Tea Fire. He noted how the art could help create a healing space, balancing themes of fire and water while reflecting on recovery after disaster. “We observed the recovery of the post-fire landscape,” he said.
Turpin’s work blends watercolor-based digital projections with stark photographs of wildfires to depict the effects of climate change. His art mimics water flowing through trees, emphasizing their intricate water cycles. The contrast between the soft watercolor projections and the harsh reality of wildfire images makes a strong impact. He wanted the audience to feel a personal connection to the work, saying, “We collaborated to elevate ideas and create an engaging, open experience.” By combining traditional art with modern technology, Turpin’s installations immerse viewers in critical environmental themes.
The conversation with the Weeks also highlighted the creative process involved in such projects. “As an artist and a scientist, it’s fascinating for us to examine their work,” Jean remarked. “It can be tough to concentrate on just one thing,” she added, with Stephan noting, “It’s called a challenge.”
WILDLAND does more than explore scientific and artistic themes. It empowers those dealing with their own wildfire experiences. Each interaction with the exhibit becomes a journey, revealing stories about water cycles and the resilience that can arise from the ashes of destruction.
