What
Global Summer StudiesWhere
When
Summer 2019
Course Dates: Jun 16, 2019 — Jul 6, 2019
Past Program
South Africa: Art + Science of Conservation
For artists and designers interested in animals, nature, environmental studies, and human-wildlife conflict. Taught by conservationist, educator, writer, and veterinarian Dr. Lucy Spelman, this 3-credit (Liberal Arts) course gives students a first-hand look at saving species from a problems/solutions perspective.
At-A-Glance
Faculty
Academic Credits
3Department
Cost
$6252Includes tuition, accommodation, field trips, local transportation, group dinners + some meals, museum entrances, health and travel insurance.
South Africa: Art and Science of Conservation
Hoedspruit, South Africa
South Africa: Art and Science of Conservation
Hoedspruit, South Africa
2019
South Africa: Art and Science of Conservation
Hoedspruit, South Africa
2019
About this Travel Course
This course is best suited for artists, designers, and science communicators interested in biodiversity studies, endangered species protection, and human-animal-environmental health interactions. Students in this three-week travel course to South Africa learn how to apply their art/design/science communication skills to improve conservation outcomes. They also gain a first-hand look at saving species from a problems/solutions perspective.
The course is led by zoological medicine veterinarian and RISD part-time faculty Dr. Lucy Spelman, the itinerary includes three days at the University of Pretoria Southern African Wildlife College near Kruger National Park, and two weeks at the Bushwise Field School near Makalali Private Game Reserve. The lead guide is Vaughan Jessnitz, biologist and senior trainer at Bushwise. A RISD teaching assistant provide art instruction and critical review.
Students have a rare opportunity to hear from a variety of experts about some of South Africa’s most pressing wildlife problems:
- habitat destruction by elephants
- poaching and illegal wildlife trade of pangolins and rhinos
- wildlife poisoning, especially of lions and vultures
Students select from among these conservation challenges, explore the problem in depth, and collaborate to produce original works of art or design that inspire conservation action. The results be shared with local artists during “art exchange day” and serve as a major project for course credit. Skills gained include analyzing, collecting, interpreting, and recording scientific data used to study and monitor wildlife populations; observing, sketching, and photographing wild animals, plants, and landscapes; teamwork; practice visualizing and communicating science. Students are also expected to create an artist archive of photographs, notes, sketches, sound recordings, and videos for future inspiration.
Student + Faculty Stories
Read more about Lucy Spelman in RISD News: Promoting Conservation through Art
It’s so important to be exposed to different cultures. When you get out of your comfort zone and throw yourself into a completely new context, you’re learning and growing every second.
Tim Hsieh MID 19 GSS19: South Africa: Art + Science of Conservation
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
Global Summer Studies 2019
1:1 Advising Session
Have questions? The RISD Global team is available to meet for a 1:1 advising session. We can give you more information about your study options, help you figure out which program makes sense for you, and assist you with the application process.
Schedule an Appointment