The Animals Only Voice

A group of young art students were surprised to discover that British Columbia does not have endangered species legislation! Proudly claiming the title of, "Beautiful BC" and, "The Best Place on Earth," it seems ironic that British Columbia is failing to protect the over 1600 species at risk! From the grizzly bears to the great blue herons to the rattle snakes; BC is the most biologically diverse province in the country. These artworks represent the students initiative to take action; to recognize the species that make British Columbia so diverse.

The compelling artworks bring attention to both the beauty and the plight of many vulnerable animals in BC.  To make their images authentic, the students researched their animals on the internet.  They found information on habitat, behaviours, threatened ecosystems, and population declines.  The students looked at the problems facing these animals and considered some possible solutions. 

After gathering the necessary information, students needed to compose their images to convey this information; to grab the  viewers attention and force them to think. Some artists included words or symbols to strengthen their message, while others considered colour combinations and  watercolour techniques to further enhance their images. The result is a richly varied impression of some of the beautiful species currently endangered or at risk in British Columbia.

We hope these paintings speak to you.
"We are the animals only voice!"
 

Colours of Pollution

The animal that is featured in my watercolour painting is a Red-necked Phalarope.  The Phalarope are soon to be endangered in British Columbia. In my painting, the chosen colours represent the pollution in our waterways that is caused by cities and agricultural run-off. Pollution is the main reason why these animals are threatened. The buildings in the background are so dark and bold to represent how industry and agriculture have such a harsh impact on these beautiful birds. I feel that the Red-necked Phalarope needs more recognition, along with all other endangered species. I hope that our future generation has the chance to embrace the beauty of this bird.

Danya, Grade 10

No Place to Live

I did this painting to show how our growing cities are destroying what is left of the homes of many animals. When we cut down forests we are destroying their homes and, for some species such as the Northern Saw-Whet Owl, we are destroying their breeding grounds. The Northern Saw-Whet Owl is the smallest species of owl in B.C., they also need trees to give birth to their young. If the cities continue to grow, many species will either die or leave B.C.. Do you want beautiful B.C. to turn into devastated B.C.?

Harry, Grade 10

Almost Gone

A Barn Owls' perfect living environments are open lowlands that include plantations, various forest types and farmlands. The two main reasons why so many Barn Owls are endangered is one, traffic; and two shelter.  Without being able to rely on a barn for shelter, Barn Owls cannot survive our painful winters. We could save many by setting up nests to protect them from the cold, and to provide a safe environment.

Monika, Grade.9