Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
Exploring Alaska’s Warming Wilderness: A New Museum Exhibition
A striking new exhibition, “On Thin Ice: Alaska’s Warming Wilderness,” now on view, explores the profound impact of climate change on the Alaskan landscape. This exhibit utilizes taxidermy animals and landscape models to highlight the destabilization of permafrost, shifting vegetation, and ice loss, offering a compelling look at the environmental challenges facing this critical region.
The Genesis of “On Thin Ice”
Daniel Ksepka, the science curator at the Bruce Museum, conceived the idea for “On Thin Ice” following a visit to Fairbanks, Alaska, in May 2022. Originally there for fossil bird research, Ksepka was captivated by the city’s “drunken forest,” a bizarre landscape of tilting trees. He noted that the leaning trees were the result of thawing permafrost due to rising temperatures, creating a scene that felt like a “bomb crater.” This experience deeply affected him, prompting an investigation into the broader impacts of global warming on Alaska.
- Thawing permafrost destabilizes the ground.
- Vegetation patterns are shifting.
- Ice is rapidly disappearing.
Alaska: A Front Line in Climate Change
Ksepka emphasizes Alaska’s pivotal role in the climate crisis, stating that air temperatures in Alaska are rising twice as fast as in other parts of the United States. The consequences of this warming trend extend far beyond Alaska, as its permafrost stores vast amounts of carbon that could significantly impact global climate patterns.
The Stars of the Show: Wildlife in a Changing Landscape
The centerpiece of “On Thin Ice” is its collection of 17 taxidermy animals representing Alaska’s diverse wildlife. These creatures, including a brown muskox and a snow fox, bring an emotional dimension to the exhibition, illustrating the threats they face due to habitat loss. The majestic Charlie, a 948-pound polar bear donated by SeaWorld, is a key symbol of the Arctic environment and the challenges it confronts.
Engaging Visitors with Alaska’s Ecosystems
Models of Alaskan landscapes complement the animal displays, showcasing phenomena such as the “browning” of forests caused by climate-driven forest fires. These models illustrate complex ecological changes in an accessible manner, helping viewers understand the scale and scope of environmental damage.
Interactive Elements and Educational Impact
Sean Murtha, the exhibition artist, masterfully created depictions of key environments using materials such as plaster, clay, paint, and epoxy resin. The exhibition includes models and interactive components designed to inform and engage visitors of all ages:
- Polar Bear on Sea Ice: Charlie the polar bear is displayed next to a simulated sea ice environment.
- Tundra Wolf and Harry Potter Lake: The tundra wolf is showcased near a representation of Harry Potter Lake, which drained rapidly in 2022 due to melting permafrost.
- Spruce and Birch Forest: A diverse forest habitat model represents home for the black bear, moose, and snowshoe hare.
Hands-on Learning for Younger Audiences
Interactive displays allow younger visitors to engage with the exhibit:
- Touching animal fur
- Identifying footprints
- Listening to animal sounds
Species featured are muskox, polar bears, moose, arctic fox, and caribou.
Museums as Climate Change Educators
The Bruce Museum joins a growing number of institutions addressing climate change through exhibitions. Mallika Talwar from the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication emphasizes the importance of museums as trusted sources of information, noting that many Americans prefer learning about climate issues in this setting. Other museums are also creating innovative climate action exhibits:
- Natural History Museum of Utah: “Climate of Hope,” focusing on climate change in the state.
- National Children’s Museum in Washington, D.C.: “Climate Action Heroes,” using a gamified approach to engage children.
Inspiring Action for a Sustainable Future
“On Thin Ice” concludes with a digital interactive display, encouraging visitors to pledge actions to reduce their carbon footprint, reinforcing the message that collective efforts can make a significant environmental impact.