Art & Avian Activism
*Open to all RISD students/faculty/staff—RSVP on Involved required*
Join the Nature Lab for an off-campus event at the local bird sanctuary Congress of the Birds!
This two-hour program features a lecture by the art educator, environmental activist, and federally-licensed wildlife rehabilitator Sheida Soleimani, who will present the challenges that birds—and particularly corvids—face in urban environments like our home city of Providence. Drawing upon evidence from cases that Soleimani has treated herself, as well as broader concerning data, she will discuss the leading causes of death for corvids in cities and connect these deaths to the ways that built environments are designed and how humans inhabit them. The class will then discuss how art as a form of activism can be used to teach our communities better ways of designing and inhabiting these built environments. Following the presentation and discussion, students will have the opportunity to see live birds working on puzzles and solving problems, while learning about how these species interact with the local environment. Students will then get to meet both of our ravens up close, and observe them as subjects for live animal drawings!
Transportation to this event is not provided, but you can either use your RISD ID for free public transportation via RIPTA bus, use a ridesharing service, or drive yourself. The address will be provided to students who RSVP.
Remember to bring your own drawing materials! And please note that this event takes place outdoors—dress for the weather, and bring a blanket, pillow, or folding chair to sit on. The rain date for this event is Monday, November 18th from 2-4pm.
