Public exhibit blends art, science and community knowledge

Public exhibit blends art, science and community knowledge

An art and science exhibit this spring at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center in Fairbanks explores the beauty, complexity and changing nature of Alaska's winter.

An opening reception will be held on Saturday, April 11, from 3-5 p.m., welcoming visitors to engage with artists, scientists and community partners.

On display through the end of May, the exhibit conveys the beauty and significance of lake and river ice in Alaskaʼs ecosystems and communities.

The exhibit is part of the Fresh Eyes on Ice project, a collaborative effort led primarily by University of Alaska Fairbanks researchers.

The project expands observations of ice conditions to improve river ice safety, flood forecasting and long-term research while reflecting the needs and knowledge of local communities. It integrates field studies, remote sensing data, cameras, buoys, historical data, community-based monitoring and citizen contributions.

Winter in the Arctic is rapidly transforming, with significant impacts on freshwater ice and the communities that depend on it for travel, recreation and fishing access.

The exhibit encourages visitors to share in the beauty of Alaska's winter and learn how they can contribute to the ice observations and scientific research.

Featured artists include Seth Beaudreault, Jessie Hedden, Bruce Ervin, Kristin Link, David Mollett, Hannah Perrine Mode, Jennifer Moss, Marc Oggier, Jill Richie and Teresa Shannon. John Smelter curated the exhibit.

Youth artists from across Alaska who have been monitoring ice conditions through Fresh Eyes on Ice also will display their ice-themed artworks.

Support from NASA's Citizen Science for Earth Systems Program, the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Geological Survey has enabled the project to partner with Tanana Chiefs Conference, the National Weather Service's Alaska Pacific River Forecast Center, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment program.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT: John Smelter, 907-474-5127, [email protected]

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