Saving Our Living Treasures: The interconnectedness of art and animal conservation – Lou Streeting
Turtles and tortoises are some of the oldest living lineages, having existed for over 200 million years. But today, turtles are in trouble, and many species are on the threshold of extinction. I am a zoologist, and my focus is the conservation of endangered turtles. Here on the New England tablelands, we have a unique species of freshwater turtle that is found nowhere else in Australia (or the world). Bell’s turtle, also known as the western saw-shelled turtle, is on the brink of extinction. My work involves understanding the ecology of these ancient reptiles, identifying threats to their survival, and developing interventions to aid their recovery and persistence for years to come. For me, turtles are living treasures of our natural world, and it is imperative that we do all we can to help them survive and flourish.
This exhibition showcases cultural treasures, artworks, and ancient artefacts, that illuminate the intimate and historical connection we have with animals. These artistic representations remind us of the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom. However, as a conservation scientist, I know that art cannot replace the ecological roles and intrinsic value of living creatures, nor the excitement, awe, and wonder of encountering a living creature in the wild.
There is an inherent interconnectedness between art and animal conservation; both strive to capture and maintain the essence of our world—one through the preservation of memory and culture, the other through the preservation of living things. Art has the power to evoke a sense of wonder and respect for nature, which can translate into a desire to protect it. Art raises awareness about conservation challenges and celebrates biodiversity, providing insight into beliefs, values, and daily lives. However, just as we preserve art to leave a legacy for future generations, we must also preserve wildlife. Both are crucial for ensuring that future generations inherit a world rich in natural and cultural heritage.
The rapidly growing list of animal species disappearing from our planet serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of inadequate conservation action. Too many species are now known only through historical records and representations. Without effective conservation efforts, turtles and many other endangered species face a similar fate, existing only in art and memories. It is vital that we support conservation efforts to maintain the diversity and richness of our natural world so that future generations have the opportunity to experience turtles and other animals alive and in their natural habitats.
Just as the art and artefacts featured in this exhibition are cultural treasures, turtles are living treasures of our natural world. By valuing and protecting our natural and cultural heritage, we ensure a world that is not only richer in diversity but also in meaning and connection. Let us work together to prevent more species from becoming mere subjects of art and instead keep them thriving in the wild where they belong.
Lou Streeting is a PhD student at the University of New England. Streeting is evaluating conservation strategies for the endangered Bell’s turtle, also known as the western saw-shelled turtle (Myuchelys bellii). Bell’s turtle is a unique freshwater turtle found only in the high-altitude rivers of the New England tablelands. Streeting’s PhD research journey began with finding the first recorded live Bell’s turtle nest and she has now protected or released more than 5,000 hatchling turtles into the wild. Streeting has recently written and illustrated ‘Where are all the baby turtles?’ to shine a light on challenges faced by freshwater turtles in Australia and to inform young readers about the importance of protecting our natural world.
Image credits:
Plate (detail), 330-310 BCE, South Italy, ceramic. MA1978.157.1. UNE Museum of Antiquities.
Margaret Coen, Untitled [Land of Wonder illustration: turtle] (detail), 1964, watercolour. Gift of Meg Stewart through the Australia Government’s Cultural Gifts Program 2010. NERAM Collection
