Nikina Bear-Lowen

I recognize that the role of a nature interpreter comes with great ethical responsibilities. My beliefs stem from a lifelong appreciation for nature, an academic background in biological sciences, and hands-on experiences as a camp counselor, hiker, and former scout and cadet. These experiences have instilled in me a strong sense of duty—to educate others about the natural world while fostering a meaningful connection between people and their environment.

Nature interpretation is more than just conveying facts; it’s about creating an experience that inspires respect, curiosity, and stewardship. As I continue developing in this field, my personal ethic is deeply rooted in respect, responsibility, integrity, and accessibility. I strive to incorporate established interpretive principles into my work, including Sam Ham’s conerstones of interpretation (2013)—ensuring my communication is thematic, organized, relevant, and enjoyable (T-O-R-E)—as well as Tilden’s foundational principles (1957) and Beck and Cable’s expanded principles (2011).

At the core of my approach to interpretation is a deep respect for nature. I believe that all ecosystems deserve appreciation and protection, and that nature should be experienced with both wonder and care. This belief is both scientific and personal.

Through my travels to places like Jamaica, my time spent hiking the Torrance Barrens, and visits to farms and conservation areas, I have witnessed the beauty and fragility of the natural world firsthand. These experiences fuel my passion for sharing knowledge and encouraging stewardship in others. I remember being in Jamaica and noticing that every resort bathroom had signs reminding guests to be respectful of water usage because it is a scarce and valuable resource. This simple message reinforced how interpretation can connect people to an issue, provoke thought, and encourage action. These small but meaningful encounters shape my approach to interpretation: encouraging awareness and personal responsibility.

Another responsibility I take seriously is promoting ethical outdoor practices. As someone who hikes, camps, and fishes with a catch-and-release mindset, I understand the importance of minimizing human impact on the environment. In my interpretation, I aim to instill a sense of responsibility by demonstrating sustainable behaviors such as respecting wildlife, following ‘leave no trace’ principles, and supporting conservation efforts. By setting an example and providing context for why these actions matter, I hope to encourage others to become mindful nature enthusiasts.

Nature interpretation is more than just sharing knowledge—it’s about creating meaningful, lasting experiences that inspire stewardship. People are more likely to protect what they understand and appreciate, so my approach emphasizes engagement, storytelling, and hands-on learning.

I really like Ham’s definition of interpretation: “Interpretation is a mission-based approach to communication aimed at provoking in audiences the discovery of personal meaning and the forging of personal connections with things, places, people and concepts” (2013).

I believe that science should be accessible and engaging. My studies in biology have taught me how complex ecological and evolutionary processes can be, but with the right approach, anyone can understand and appreciate them. Science should not feel intimidating—it should spark curiosity and wonder. This is why I strive to balance factual accuracy with storytelling and real-world connections.

One of my key responsibilities as an interpreter is to present well-researched, accurate information in a way that is both accessible and engaging. My background in ecosystems, evolution, human physiology, and agriculture provides a strong foundation, but knowledge alone is not enough. I must also communicate effectively, adapting my approach to different audiences. This means using clear & relatable language, real-world examples to connect science to everyday life, and interactive activities to allow participants engage with the material personally.

To accomplish this, I strive to reach people through all three general learning domains described by Beck et al. (2018). The cognitive domain engages the rational mind by processing information through facts, classification, and logical explanations. This type of learning helps individuals make sense of their environment through methods such as talks, exhibits, and charts. The affective domain focuses on emotional connections, provoking attitudes, feelings, and sentiments. By incorporating storytelling, photography, music, and other expressive forms, I aim to create a deeper, more personal engagement with the subject matter. Lastly, the kinesthetic domain involves learning through movement and hands-on activities. Interactive demonstrations, guided hikes, and other participatory experiences help individuals develop motor skills while reinforcing concepts through direct engagement with nature. By integrating all three domains, I strive to create well-rounded, immersive interpretive experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.

I am particularly drawn to experiential and inquiry-based learning, as I find people learn best when they are actively involved rather than passively receiving information. Whether leading a guided hike, facilitating a hands-on activity, or engaging in storytelling, I strive to create immersive experiences that encourage observation, questioning, and discovery. 

This aligns with my background in STEM outreach, where I have learned to make complex topics engaging and accessible for young audiences. Instead of simply providing answers, I encourage curiosity—helping participants develop their own understanding of nature through exploration.

In addition to verbal interpretation, I strive to follow Leftridge’s (2006) principles for interpretive writing, by encouraging personal connections to the subject, creating tangible connections, connecting the topic to a broader theme, and challenging the reader to think, reflect, and change their actions. By incorporating effective interpretive writing, I can extend the reach of interpretation beyond direct experiences, making it accessible through different forms of media like this blog.

Another approach I value is fostering an emotional connection to nature. Some of the most profound moments in my life have been shaped by personal interactions with the natural world—whether playing the bagpipes in remote landscapes, photographing breathtaking sunsets, or encountering wildlife.

By incorporating personal stories, cultural perspectives, and sensory experiences into my interpretation, I hope to make learning more meaningful. Nature is not just something to be studied—it’s something to be felt. Creating moments of awe and reflection can be just as powerful as scientific facts in inspiring stewardship.

Finally, I see my role as an interpreter as an ongoing journey. There is always more to learn, new ways to improve, and different perspectives to consider. By staying curious, open-minded, and adaptable, I can continue growing in my ability to engage, educate, and advocate for the natural world.

Moving forward as a nature interpreter, I aim to do several things. Deepen my knowledge in areas like ecological restoration, wildlife rehabilitation, and indigenous and ecological perspectives. Improve my ability to engage difficult audiences, including those skeptical of conservation messages. Develop more hands-on, immersive activities that allow people to experience nature directly. 

My ethic as a nature interpreter is guided by respect for nature, a commitment to education, and a passion for fostering connections between people and the environment. By embracing engagement, responsibility, and continuous learning, I hope to leave a positive impact on both individuals and the ecosystems they encounter.

Nature has given me so much—peace, knowledge, adventure. This is my way of giving back. 

References

I also love how you frame interpretation as an invitation to listen, to be present, and to recognize the richness of life around us. The way you intertwine personal and collective narratives creates a strong foundation for impactful and inclusive interpretation.

Your piece is a powerful reflection of your passion and dedication. It resonates with a sense of purpose—one that seeks not only to educate but also to inspire a deeper appreciation for the world and our place within it. Keep sharing your voice; it adds so much to the field of nature interpretation.

There are moments in nature that remind us just how small we are in the grand cosmic ballet. Last night, March 13, 2025, was one of those moments. A lunar eclipse one of the most breathtaking celestial events graced the night sky, captivating anyone who turned their gaze upward. It was more than just a scientific phenomenon; it was a mesmerizing performance between the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun, a silent story written in the heavens.

A total lunar eclipse enters its peak stage Thursday, March 13, 2025 (The weather, 2025).

If you are reading this blog on March 13 or 14, don’t miss the chance to witness this incredible event for yourself! Step outside, find a dark place away from city lights, and look up you won’t regret it.

A lunar eclipse is one of the most amazing things I know about nature. It occurs when the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow over our celestial companion (Barry & Barry, 2025). Unlike a solar eclipse, where the Moon briefly obscures the Sun, a lunar eclipse is a slow, elegant transition an event that feels almost theatrical, as if the universe itself is dimming the lights for a show. Last night, the Moon didn’t simply disappear; instead, it transformed, taking on a reddish hue that ancient civilizations once feared, calling it a “Blood Moon” (Britannica, 2025).

The reason for this eerie transformation lies in Earth’s atmosphere. When the Sun’s light passes through the thick layer of gases surrounding our planet, shorter wavelengths scatter (which is why our sky is blue), while the longer red and orange wavelengths bend and reach the Moon. The result? A copper-coloured Moon hanging eerily in the sky, as if dipped in molten bronze (Lee, 2014).

During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon is reddened by sunlight filtered through Earth's atmosphere (Barry & Barry, 2025).

As I watched the Moon fade into shadow and reappear in its new form, I couldn’t help but think about how this event has shaped human understanding for centuries. Throughout history, lunar eclipses have been interpreted as omens, signs from the gods, or warnings of impending doom. The ancient Babylonians meticulously recorded eclipses, believing they were linked to the fate of kings. In Norse mythology, a great wolf named Hati was said to be chasing the Moon, and when he caught it, an eclipse would occur (Exploratorium, n.d.). The Incas believed a lunar eclipse was caused by a jaguar attacking the Moon, and they would shout and throw spears at the sky to scare the beast away (Lee, 2014).

Today, we know the science behind this phenomenon, yet it still holds a kind of magic. Even armed with knowledge, standing beneath the night sky as the Moon darkens and glows red is an experience that transcends mere facts. The vastness of space, the alignment of celestial bodies, and the precision of the cosmos all feel incredibly calculated and overwhelmingly mysterious at the same time (Barry & Barry, 2025).

Standing beneath the shadowed sky, watching this celestial event unfold, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of wonder. In our modern world, flooded with artificial light and digital distractions, how often do we stop to appreciate the grandeur of the universe? How often do we look beyond our screens to witness something so ancient, so primal, that humans have observed it for thousands of years? It’s humbling to think that the very same phenomenon has been recorded by early astronomers, inscribed into myths, and used to mark the passage of time long before we understood its scientific mechanics.

Another fascinating aspect of lunar eclipses is that they are visible from anywhere on Earth where the Moon is above the horizon at the time of the event. Unlike solar eclipses, which require you to be on a specific path, a total lunar eclipse can be seen by millions across the world simultaneously (Britannica, 2025). It’s a rare moment where people across different continents can share in a collective experience, looking up at the same sky and witnessing the same awe-inspiring event.

Map showing where the March 13-14, 2025 lunar eclipse is visible. Contours mark the edge of the visibility region at eclipse contact times, labeled in UTC (Barry & Barry, 2025).

Photography enthusiasts and amateur astronomers were out in full force last night, capturing breathtaking images of the eclipse. If you missed it, don’t worry there are plenty of stunning photographs available online. Some of the best shots highlight the different stages of the eclipse: the partial shadow creeping in, the moment of totality when the Moon is fully engulfed in red, and the gradual return to its usual brightness. Seeing the images after the event helps cement just how incredible the transformation was.

Last night’s eclipse reminded me of one of nature’s greatest truths: the world around us is always moving, always shifting, always playing out stories far greater than our own. In the span of a few hours, we saw a transformation that defied the ordinary a shift in light, in colour, in presence itself. And yet, how many people missed it? How many never looked up?

Perhaps that’s the beauty of nature’s wonders. They are not demanding. They don’t ask for applause or attention. They simply exist, waiting for us to notice.

So, as we move through our daily lives, wrapped up in routines and responsibilities, maybe we should ask ourselves: when was the last time we truly paused to appreciate something bigger than ourselves? When was the last time we stood still, looked up, and felt awe? And if we don’t make time for moments like these, what other wonders might we be missing?

References

Barry, C., & Barry, C. (2025, March 6). What you need to know about the March 2025 total lunar eclipse - NASA Science. NASA Science. https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/moon/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-march-2025-total-lunar-eclipse/

Lee, J. J. (2014, April 14). Lunar eclipse myths from around the world. Science. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/140413-total-lunar-eclipse-myths-space-culture-science

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (2025, March 14). Lunar eclipse | Definition, Diagram, Frequency, Types, & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/lunar-eclipse

Exploratorium. (n.d.). Eclipse Legends Around the World. Retrieved from https://www.exploratorium.edu/eclipse/eclipse-stories-from-around-the-world

This was the first time I got to experience a full lunar eclipse alongside a blood moon, and seeing the moon illuminated in red was breathtaking. Reading your post provided me with valuable insights into the science behind it and deepened my understanding.

Here is a picture I got of the eclipse.

Nature has always been able to create symphonies that require no human touch. The rustling of leaves in the wind, the crash of ocean waves, the melodic calls of birds at dawn, these elements remind us that music exists all around us and is embedded within the world’s natural rhythms. But just as music lives in nature, nature also weaves its way into the music we create. Artists have long drawn inspiration from the natural world, using its imagery, emotions, and even sounds to shape compositions that transport us to landscapes both real and imagined. 

Music is able to bring back memories of nature that we might have forgotten. For me listening to music that has lyrics of water or nature reminds me of all the trips I have taken over the years. In particular songs that often have lyrics about beaches or water remind me of the trips I have taken to Fiji when I was younger. It reminds me of the waterfalls, the rivers and the crashing waves on the beach that I see everytime I visit there. Nature in itself has many sounds that can remind us of certain songs and melodies.

If we listen closely, nature offers a layered orchestra. The pattering of rain on a rooftop, the distant rumble of thunder, and crickets chirping in unison. These organic sounds inspire composers, from classical musicians to folk artists, integrating the essence of the outdoors into their works. Beethoven famously incorporated birdsong into his Symphony No. 6, while more contemporary artists like Bon Iver and Fleet Foxes use nature infused lyrics and acoustic arrangements to create an earthy, atmospheric effect. 

Besides borrowing sounds from nature, musicians also reflect their essence in lyrics, themes, and mood. Folk and indie genres are rich with imagery of forests, mountains, rivers, and skies. Music often serves as a portal, taking listeners to places they may long for either in memory or imagination. One song that perfectly embodies this is The Lakes by Taylor Swift. 

From the first notes of The Lakes, a sweeping melody washes over the listener. Inspired by England’s Lake District, Swift captures the longing for a retreat into nature. The orchestral arrangement, led by soft strings and gentle piano, mirrors the serenity of rolling hills and still waters. Her lyrics, “Take me to the lakes where all the poets went to die,” express a desire for escape, a return to a wilder, untamed space where creativity can flourish away from modern distractions. 

For many, a particular song can immediately summon the memory of a natural place. Perhaps it’s a song that is played on repeat during a road trip, or the song that hummed in the background during a campfire or while on a walk. For me The Lakes creates images of the mist-covered waters, rivers and the rocky cliffs in Fiji. It reminds me of all times i've been in nature as a child. It relates to finding solace in nature and craving the quiet beauty of a secluded retreat. 

Music and nature exist together in a relationship, each reflecting and inspiring the other. The rhythms of nature influence the music we create, and the music we listen to has the power to transport us back into the heart of nature. Whether through the whispering wind or the delicate pluck of a guitar string, we find that nature and music are never far apart, they are two halves of the same song. 

The Lakes by Taylor Swift

I really enjoyed reading your blog post and how beautifully you connected music and nature. Your insights resonate deeply with me, especially the idea that nature creates its own symphony. It's remarkable how music can evoke such strong emotions and a sense of belonging to the natural world. For example, Taylor Swift's "The Lakes" perfectly captures the longing for a secluded retreat into nature. It's actually my favorite song on the album, and I find the lyricism incredibly moving; it expresses a profound desire to escape into nature and seek solace in its quiet beauty.

Visiting Easter Island (Rapa Nui) was an unforgettable experience that altered my perception of human history and nature as intricately interconnected. Before visiting, I had only heard stories of the Moai statues and, like many, had viewed the alien theories that suggested extraterrestrials had produced these. But while visiting, I found out the truth—that the Rapa Nui people (original Indigenous people from 100 years ago) had transported these massive stones using logs, ropes, and brains. This changed my thinking, showing how indigenous skill and human persistence had carved out the island. Having viewed the Moai closeup and learned how these had cultural significance made one think of how human history and interpreting nature co-exist, shifting the way people interpret human society-created landscapes.

One of the concerns that stood out to me was how Indigenous voices get lost in the narrative. The Rapa Nui people, as rich as their cultural heritage, have had it tough, suffering from issues of displacement, lack of representation, and very little access to amenities. In many ways, this reflects the problems of indigenous people across Chile. While there has been an attempt by law to accord these people greater rights, issues surrounding land ownership, education, and accessibility to modern amenities still prevail. During my visit, I saw how many residents still inhabit living conditions that bear little similarity to the economic benefits tourism has accorded Easter Island. It brought back thoughts of how history tends to favour those powerful while the contributors, like the Indigenous people responsible for building the Moai, get less. Beyond its historical relevance, Easter Island also has an invaluable lesson regarding environmental sustainability.

It’s important to recognize how our perspectives shift based on the value we assign to different aspects of a place. For instance, viewing the Moai not just as impressive statues, but as profound symbols of the Rapa Nui people's resilience and ingenuity. The struggles faced by the Rapa Nui people, including displacement and a lack of representation, are unfortunately common among many Indigenous communities. We often learn only part of their story, and typically it's not the one that truly reflects their experiences.

By acknowledging the historical context and ongoing challenges these communities face, we can better appreciate their significance and contribute to meaningful change. This kind of awareness enriches our travels, and I strive to stay informed about the places I visit and the lands I am on to pay them proper respect.

This past week, I read an article in the news of farmers suing their governments for failing to act on climate change. This approach in Switzerland has now become a trend, claiming for damages and championing for change as a result of the climate crisis that many tend to put on the back burner. This prompted me to think of nature interpretation through a legal lens. In the first few pages of out textbook, the mission of interpretation is discussed, with aims to developing a citizenry informed and experienced in our natural and cultural heritage. Helping the population to gain direct, in-depth familiarity with its life support system, the environment. Nature interpretation cannot occur without the preservation of nature, and I was thinking that a form of nature interpretation could be considered its defense in the court of law. In this sense, lawsuits, litigants, and those defending the rights of nature, employ the importance of nature preservation. The significance of nature and the environment and aim to not only share this significance but ensure that it lives on, continuing to flourish and to be enjoyed by everyone. This is something I find particularly interesting as I am in both Biology and Political Science. I think there has been a recurring theme of governments failing to address climate change and concerns for our land. Many governments in fact, support the exploitation of land and resources that continuously benefit the few while harming the masses. The Canadian government continues to make claims to land that belongs to Indigenous communities for its continued exploitation to support the capitalistic needs of society in its overconsumption. In this specific case, the changing climate in the agricultural sphere will yield far less crops, in a world where food insecurity is already an issue, we need to be able to defend our land. Ironically, as the article highlighted, agriculture is exempt from regulations on environmental protection as a result of its importance. How is it so important to the point that it is unprotected? There are so many climate change goals that countries are ‘striving’ to achieve and failing so miserably to do so. I can’t help but foolishly ask why? And who is enforcing these goals? I know the answers, and it is because economic gains are more valuable than the hand that feeds us and earth that homes us. Not to get too distracted and to burrow down in climate change rant, in this process I truly understood how pervasive nature interpretation is, because nature is what unites us all. That is one of the unique aspects to nature interpretation that I have come to notice in these last few weeks of being in this course, nature interpretation, in a sense, is up to interpretation. It is malleable and can be applied to so many different sectors in life. Environmental lawyers are integral to transmitting the importance of not only the value of nature and the environment but also in defending this value from those who seek to exploit it. I have linked the article if you're interested in reading it!

Some questions to think about: are there any unique modes of nature interpretation you have come across in your everyday life since beginning this course?

Why do you think climate change is such a difficult topic to have addressed?

In response to your question regarding climate change and how we can approach it effectively, I think this is a particularly difficult topic to address comprehensively. We’ve fallen into a deep hole regarding environmental degradation and climate issues, and unfortunately, it often feels like we’re just digging ourselves deeper with each passing year. The reality is that it's easy to become overwhelmed when trying to find a "solution" to such a colossal crisis.

However, I believe that this is where much of the discussion around the climate crisis can be misguided. People often look for one singular, grand solution that will fix everything in one fell swoop, but that is unrealistic. In truth, we will not find a magical answer that’s both economical and all-encompassing. Instead, addressing climate change effectively will require a concerted effort involving multiple small changes that, when used in combination, can gradually help to rebuild and restore our climate.

This past week, I read an article in the news of farmers suing their governments for failing to act on climate change. This approach in Switzerland has now become a trend, claiming for damages and championing for change as a result of the climate crisis that many tend to put on the back burner. This prompted me to think of nature interpretation through a legal lens. In the first few pages of out textbook, the mission of interpretation is discussed, with aims to developing a citizenry informed and experienced in our natural and cultural heritage. Helping the population to gain direct, in-depth familiarity with its life support system, the environment. Nature interpretation cannot occur without the preservation of nature, and I was thinking that a form of nature interpretation could be considered its defense in the court of law. In this sense, lawsuits, litigants, and those defending the rights of nature, employ the importance of nature preservation. The significance of nature and the environment and aim to not only share this significance but ensure that it lives on, continuing to flourish and to be enjoyed by everyone. This is something I find particularly interesting as I am in both Biology and Political Science. I think there has been a recurring theme of governments failing to address climate change and concerns for our land. Many governments in fact, support the exploitation of land and resources that continuously benefit the few while harming the masses. The Canadian government continues to make claims to land that belongs to Indigenous communities for its continued exploitation to support the capitalistic needs of society in its overconsumption. In this specific case, the changing climate in the agricultural sphere will yield far less crops, in a world where food insecurity is already an issue, we need to be able to defend our land. Ironically, as the article highlighted, agriculture is exempt from regulations on environmental protection as a result of its importance. How is it so important to the point that it is unprotected? There are so many climate change goals that countries are ‘striving’ to achieve and failing so miserably to do so. I can’t help but foolishly ask why? And who is enforcing these goals? I know the answers, and it is because economic gains are more valuable than the hand that feeds us and earth that homes us. Not to get too distracted and to burrow down in climate change rant, in this process I truly understood how pervasive nature interpretation is, because nature is what unites us all. That is one of the unique aspects to nature interpretation that I have come to notice in these last few weeks of being in this course, nature interpretation, in a sense, is up to interpretation. It is malleable and can be applied to so many different sectors in life. Environmental lawyers are integral to transmitting the importance of not only the value of nature and the environment but also in defending this value from those who seek to exploit it. I have linked the article if you're interested in reading it!

Some questions to think about: are there any unique modes of nature interpretation you have come across in your everyday life since beginning this course?

Why do you think climate change is such a difficult topic to have addressed?

Who Are You to Interpret Nature Through Art?

As an artist, writer, or even a casual observer, one may wonder: Who am I to interpret nature through art? What gives me the authority or insight to translate the beauty of the world into something tangible? These are questions deeply rooted in the core of interpretation; a concept explored in Chapter 5 of our textbook. Interpretation, as described by Enos Mills and Freeman Tilden, is not about dictating meaning but rather about facilitating connections between tangible experiences and intangible emotions or knowledge (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018). Art, in many ways, serves as an extension of this principle it is a medium through which we translate nature’s grandeur into something deeply personal and universally resonant.

The act of interpreting nature through art is not about authority; rather, it is about perspective and communication. Everyone brings their own lived experiences, cultural backgrounds, and emotional responses to the table. As interpreters, whether through paintings, poetry, music, or sculpture, we strive to capture not just the physical essence of nature but also the emotions and ideas it evokes. According to the interpretive principles outlined in Chapter 5, quality interpretation emphasizes the special character of a place, creating a bridge between tangible elements such as landscapes, wildlife, and weather patterns and the intangible feelings of wonder, nostalgia, and reverence they inspire (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018).

When we attempt to capture the spirit of a place through artistic expression, we are participating in an ancient and ongoing dialogue with nature. This dialogue does not require credentials; it requires passion, attentiveness, and a willingness to engage deeply. Whether you are a seasoned artist or someone sketching in a notebook for the first time, your interpretation is valid because it is uniquely yours. By engaging in this process, you are fulfilling the role of an interpreter helping others to see, appreciate, and connect with the world in new ways (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018).

Interpreting “The Gift of Beauty”

Nature’s beauty is a gift, but what does that really mean? Is beauty simply an aesthetic experience, or does it carry deeper significance? According to interpretive principles, beauty is not just in the eye of the beholder it is in the interaction between the viewer and the viewed, between perception and meaning (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018). The “gift of beauty” is not merely about what we see but about how we feel and what we take away from the experience.

Artists and interpreters alike strive to capture this fleeting, often indescribable essence. Sunrise over the ocean, the intricate patterns of a leaf, or the haunting stillness of a winter forest are not just images but experiences that stir something within us. Freeman Tilden argued that interpretation should be provocative rather than instructive, meaning that the role of an interpreter is to inspire curiosity and emotion rather than simply convey facts (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018). Likewise, artists aim not just to depict nature but to evoke a sense of awe, reflection, and personal meaning in their audience.

Ultimately, interpreting nature through art is an act of gratitude. By capturing and sharing the beauty of the natural world, we encourage others to see it with fresh eyes, fostering respect and love for the environment. In doing so, we uphold the interpretive principles of making connections, deepening understanding, and inspiring a sense of responsibility toward the planet. The “gift of beauty” is not just something we receive it is something we pass on, through our art, our words, and our appreciation of the world around us (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018). How do you interpret the beauty of nature in your own unique way?

I’d love to hear if you have any personal stories or experiences related to interpreting nature through art, especially regarding the meaning of beauty. For instance, I shared my experience with interpreting nature through my grandfather's painting.

As for your question—how do you interpret the beauty of nature in your own unique way? I believe that I interpret the beauty of nature through memory, emotion, and a personal connection to the land. Much of what I shared in my post is not only about what I feel but also about the emotional experiences tied to it. The beauty in nature that resonates with me the most often evokes memories and personal reflection.

What is privilege?

Privilege is often a term association with social and economic advantages available to certain groups and denied from other groups simply due to economic status, race, identity, beliefs and so on.

Before reading this week’s prompt I never really gave much thought pertaining to how privilege can shape nature interpretation. I thought the reference to an invisible backpack was very interesting as it really opened my eyes to realize that things such as being able to speak English or having a Canadian passport may seem so normal to some but in reality, it is a great privilege that gives you a step up that others may not have. Upon going through this week’s readings, the insights and connections that I made really helped deepen my understanding of how the amount of access others have to nature shapes and has an influence on the narratives and interpretations they form about it.

Does Everyone Experiences Privilege the Same Way?

It is often over-looked how those with greater financial resources, social capital, or access to education have easier access to visit natural spaces such as parks, reserves and outdoor activities that allow experience in the many ways nature presents itself. 

An individual can be privileged in some areas but face disadvantages and marginalization in others. For example, Greg a wheelchair bound man owns his own adapted car in which he can drive wherever he wants, this is a privilege for Greg to have. Greg may want to go on a nature guided tour one day only to find the guided tour is only partially wheelchair accessible, causing Greg to have to miss some information the tour guide may provide. This scenario could give Greg and very negative experience with nature as he may begin to assume that many parts of nature are not accessible for him and from that decide in the future it is not worth it for him to go out and try. The notion of discrimination became associated with less satisfaction and a negative experience with nature, and this relationship has the potential to undermine efforts nature interpreters make to help everyone connects with nature and build their own interpretation of it (Schinasi & Lawrence, 2024).

Privilege shapes who will feel included and who gains from these experiences. A nature interpreters responsibility is to understand those who have been made to feel marginalized and excluded and find creative ways to make nature a more inclusive and welcoming space for all. In this week’s content we discussed the connections between privilege and perceptions of risk detailing how groups with certain privileges idealize risk-taking as means of connection with nature, overlooking challenges often faced by marginalized groups. Dominantly privileged groups may view hiking as exciting and a way to escape stress, but a black woman may feel uneasy in outdoor atmospheres like national parks due the fear of historical and currently still ongoing racism and profiling, ultimately deterring her from wanting to try hiking.

Overall, this week I have realized that nature is not a universal experience, and if society does not actively work to dismantle oppressive systems and create more equal experiences, these groups will continue to remain excluded from opportunities, resources, and social equality.

References:

As an Indigenous person from a community in Northern Ontario, I have written about my experiences with privilege in Canadian society on my blog. I hope you can take the time to read it.

Acknowledging these issues is crucial, as it fosters a deeper understanding of the historical context and ongoing realities faced by Indigenous peoples. It’s not just about recognition; it’s about taking actionable steps toward equity and justice on Turtle Island and around the world as we become visitors on others’ lands. We must continue to engage in conversations that challenge our understanding of privilege and encourage accountability from those in power.

I believe it’s essential for all of us to actively listen to Indigenous voices and support initiatives that elevate these perspectives. We need to advocate for genuine partnerships with Indigenous peoples concerning rights and knowledge in areas such as land management, education, and health.

I believe that privilege is unlikely to ever cease to exist because these issues are deeply ingrained in society. Conversations about privilege and colonialism can be challenging, but they are essential. Thank you for reading.

What role does “privilege” play in nature interpretation? Please include your working definition of privilege. 

My working definition of privilege is any overt or covert advantages or disadvantages that affects ones positionality in society. While many seek to address overt privileges, especially as of late, there has been this era of 'wokeness' where society seeks to address these issues. While this is great and incredibly important, there continue to be however, so many structural inequalities that continue to impact marginalized communities. Furthermore, there is the concept of intersectionality which discusses an entanglement of identities that result in unique experiences of privileges or discrimination. Intersectional issues are much more difficult to address due to its disproportionate effect on so many differing communities. As well as structured inequality being harder to address as well because these barriers are so deeply entrenched in society. For example, a great portion of our scientific understandings in the medical community are tailored to white males as these are the study pools selected. Despite the genetic differences that create differing outcomes for other sexes or races. Society does not cater to these individuals, not to mention many women must simply accept the care they are given. Like the ridiculous and dangerous list of side effects or risks women face when taking any form of hormonal birth control, that for much of history was not even explained to women. The fact that women have different symptoms of heart attacks that was only recently understood. I think privilege plays a large role in nature interpretation, especially in Canada. Canada is known for its beautiful landscapes, nature, and culture. Yet, Canada has had the privilege to develop this culture and regions as a result of its horrendous treatment of the Indigenous people who inhabited this land prior to and anteceding colonization. While they have attempted to perhaps right their wrongs, in political efforts like the Truth and Reconciliation Act or with the University's land acknowledgements, or with many other arguably trivial actions. This does not change the fact that these groups are still subject to structural inequalities in Canada, including but not limited to; immensely high food cost in Indigenous communities, continued disrespect and ignorance of government reparations, including allowing the construction of oil pipelines on Indigenous soil, and a lack of livable conditions. I think many Canadian nature interpreters can be very privileged in just our access to our amazing land but also in land dynamics that impact our relationships with nature.  

It’s truly refreshing to discuss these topics with someone else! From the privileges that men hold in society to your insights on colonialism in Canada, I’m glad you recognize the "virtue signaling" that the Canadian government engages in. As you mentioned, this doesn’t change the fact that they continue to marginalize Indigenous populations, even regarding basic human rights. They often check boxes and put on displays to make it seem like they’ve addressed the issues when, in reality, it’s merely a superficial approach to "fixing" things. Acknowledgment of these issues is crucial, as it fosters a deeper understanding of the historical context and ongoing realities faced by Indigenous peoples. It’s not just about recognition; it’s about taking actionable steps toward equity and justice on Turtle Island and across the world as we become visitors on others’ lands. We must continue to engage in conversations that challenge our understanding of privilege and encourage accountability from those in power.

I believe it’s essential for all of us to actively listen to Indigenous voices and support initiatives that elevate these perspectives. We need to advocate for genuine partnerships that respect Indigenous rights and knowledge, especially in areas such as land management, education, and health.

I appreciate your willingness to engage in this dialogue. Conversations about privilege and colonialism are not always easy, but they are necessary.