‘The Great Elephant Migration’ exhibit has taken over Miami Beach with an remarkable herd of 100 full size elephant sculptures on display between 36th and 37th streets in Midtown.
The installation, organized by the charity Elephant Family USA, seeks to raise awareness about elephant conservation and the importance of coexistence between humans and animals.
Nearly 200 of these sculptures have been made by indigenous artisans from the Bettakurumba, Paniya, Kattunayakan and Soliga communities in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in southern india. The figures are made with lantana camara, an invasive plant that threatens natural habitats in India, and whose use in the sculptures helps to control its spread.
The exhibition is part of Miami Art Week 2024, and will be open to the public from its opening on December 2nd until December 8th. In addition to the visual experience, attendees will be able to enjoy a perfume inspired by the flowers of the habitats of Asian elephants, created by the Italian house Xerjoff, which supports the conservation mission with every bottle sold.
This initiative is an expression of art and conservation, promoting the protection of endangered species and fostering a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.The sculptures are also for sale, with proceeds going to support conservation and coexistence projects, such as those developed by the Coexistence Consortium and other organizations around the world.
It shoudl be noted that the 100 sculptures have already been sold, according to the information on the artwork website. It’s amazing that prices range from $800 to $28,000, especially from the smallest to the smallest. Although these are excessive amounts, the wooden carved figures are intended to raise money for their creative artists and for the benefit of social causes, especially organizations responsible for taking care of natural reserves and interacting with human life.
“Each sculpture depicts a real wild elephant, emphasizing its individual, very human-like nature,” the exhibition’s organizers emphasize.The stories of each elephant invite visitors to consider the possibility of living in harmony with nature.
The sculptures are still for sale, although there are not many left available. Proceeds will go to organizations working on conservation and coexistence, such as the Coexistence Consortium. “Every purchase supports the work on the ground necessary to conserve these species.”
What role do art exhibits like ‘The Great Elephant Migration’ play in raising public awareness about wildlife conservation?
Interview wiht dr. Anika Rao, Conservation Biologist and Art Activist, on ‘the Great Elephant Migration’ Exhibit
Q: thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rao. Can you start by telling us about the inspiration behind ‘The Great Elephant migration’ exhibit in Miami Beach?
A: Thank you for having me! ‘The Great Elephant Migration’ is a profound initiative organized by Elephant Family USA, aimed at raising awareness for elephant conservation. The exhibit features 100 life-sized elephant sculptures crafted by indigenous artisans from the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in southern India. This remarkable installation not only showcases art but serves a crucial purpose — fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of coexistence between humans and elephants.
Q: It’s interesting to learn that the sculptures are made from lantana camara, an invasive species in India. How does this choice impact both conservation and art?
A: Using lantana camara highlights a dual approach to environmental challenges. By incorporating an invasive plant, the artisans are actively participating in controlling its spread, which threatens local ecosystems. This initiative demonstrates how art can be a vehicle for conservation. Each sculpture is not just visually appealing but also sends a powerful message about environmental stewardship and resourcefulness.
Q: the exhibit runs during Miami Art Week 2024, which is a prominent event. How important is it to showcase such conservation efforts in an artistic context?
A: Showcasing conservation efforts within artistic contexts like Miami Art Week elevates the conversation around endangered species. Art has the unique ability to connect emotionally with viewers, compelling them to engage with critical issues. This particular exhibit draws attention not only to the plight of elephants but also to the need for harmonious coexistence with nature, making it a timely and impactful dialog during such a high-profile week.
Q: With the sculptures already sold and priced between $800 to $28,000, how do you perceive the intersection of art, commerce, and conservation?
A: The prices reflect the craftsmanship and the social causes they support. By selling these sculptures, we are not just valuing art; we’re investing in conservation initiatives, particularly those run by organizations like the Coexistence Consortium. Every dollar spent contributes to practical projects that help protect endangered species and their habitats. It’s a win-win scenario where buyers get unique pieces while contributing to a critically important cause.
Q: Besides the sculptures, the exhibition features a perfume inspired by the habitats of Asian elephants. Can you discuss the importance of such collaborative efforts in conservation?
A: Collaborations like this are pivotal in broadening the reach of conservation messages. The perfume created by the Italian house Xerjoff not only enhances the sensory experience of the exhibit but reinforces the connection between art, culture, and wildlife. Each purchase aids conservation, demonstrating how various industries can work together to protect our environment.
Q: Lastly, what practical advice can you offer to our readers who want to support elephant conservation today?
A: Firstly, supporting organizations that focus on wildlife conservation is crucial, whether through donations or by participating in community efforts. Secondly, being mindful consumers and choosing brands that prioritize sustainability can have a significant impact. Lastly, advocate for policies that promote wildlife protection and coexistence initiatives in your local area. every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement for wildlife conservation.
Q: Thank you, Dr.Rao, for sharing your insights on ‘The Great Elephant Migration’. It’s inspiring to see art and conservation work hand in hand.
A: My pleasure! Let’s continue to raise awareness and support for these magnificent creatures through both art and action. thank you for having me.