Native Wildlife
For my creation I chose to produce a work of art that focuses on the topic of nature and the different people of Oregon that have had long-lasting effects on the natural environment. This change has been brought from not only the thousands of people that have migrated to Oregon, but also people that have called this state home long before any other group of people decided to reside here. Along with those people, many different cultures have migrated to Oregon. Unfortunately, that has pushed Native Americans into the shadows. Oregonians seem to forget that every culture that is not native to the state of Oregon is an immigrant culture.
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As immigrants overtook the land and called it their own, a ripple effect was created that, not only pushed Natives to the point of extinction, but also the wildlife of Oregon. Native plants in the state of Oregon have vanished because of many different reason, including climate change and wild-fires. The after effects of these factors make the soil less fertile, which makes it difficult for plants to grow and multiply. To add to that fact, there are other plants that are not native to the region of Oregon that find their way into this land. These plant species are called “invasive species,”and they also cause harm to the native wildlife of Oregon.
Similar to people who have migrated to the state of Oregon, plants that are not native to the territory have often been brought in by immigrants for various different reasons. However, as plants continue to be brought into Oregon, the invasive species then dominate and infest areas where native plants used to prosper. Invasive species have no natural predators in the new areas that they are brought into, so when they arrive in Oregon, they take over.
While some may think the new plants are beautiful and diversify Oregon, the downside of having plants brought into the state of Oregon means it has caused lasting effects in nature. Native plants can be pushed to the point where they no longer exist in the area where they used to grow.
One of the goals of this project is to inform the public about endangered plant species when looking at the art, but to also help everyone understand that the state of Oregon is made up of unique cultures that make Oregon so great. With unique cultures comes understanding their history and the different items brought over from their home counties and one example of these is plants that were brought over to the state of Oregon throughout the years. That being said, I think it’s important to remember the people who this beautiful state/land once belonged to.
This project/art piece also connects with my design practice because it intertwines with my goal to serve everyone. The services that Art/design can provide shows me the importance of celebrating cultures that are different then my own. To understand their history and where they come from. To not assume I’m right, but to stop and listen to others that are different than me and show love, compassion, and respect to the people I encounter; even when it’s hard to do so.
Not only that, but feeling called to serve everyone, regardless of their race, background, religion, or sexual orientation. I believe that, by doing this, I am honoring God; reflecting his values. (Romans 15:7)
