Having returned from Antarctica, seen some incredible sights and met some inspiring fellow naturalists/scientists it is time to open up once again the portfolio I have been working on for several years which explores Cetacean vision. Or put more clearly a collection of artworks and writing which asks the question how do Cetaceans see their world. This is not a collection of fancy artworks to pin on a wall, nor a series of scientific illustrations. It is a rather a ‘deep dive’ into what we know about human vision and how it can give us clues as to what Cetaceans actually see. (details below)

Whilst it is generally acknowledged that Cetaceans are sentient beings, maybe this project will bring greater understanding of what this term actually means, and hopefully reinforce the importance of the conservation of these incredible beings and their Ocean habitats.

Initially the portfolio will focus upon five areas which explore how whales see their environment:

1. CET VIS 1 Shape.

2. CET VIS 2 Size.

3. CET VIS 3 Colour

4. CET VIS 4 Depth

5. CET VIS 5 Acuity

Note: For some of these elements how Cetaceans “see” their world through sound (acoustic vision) will also be considered.

I am welcoming anyone who has an interest and wishes to make a contribution to this project, be they naturalists, Whale watching guides, photographers or scientists. To this end I have set up two consulting groups;

Naturalists who wish to add observations, anecdotal evidence, photographs etc.
Cetacean scientists giving insights based upon their research which links to the portfolio.

All contributors/contributions will be acknowledged and attributed in the relevant section of the portfolio, their additional insights will be invaluable.

On completion the portfolio will be made available to specialist groups, interested parties and conservation bodies who would like to take this project forward.

I can be contacted via the contact page of this website, all communications will be by email only at this stage of the project.

best wishes

Richard

The project objective is to develop a portfolio of artwork, scientific notes and real world observations which explore and expand upon our knowledge of how Cetaceans “see” their world.

The artworks will form a framework upon which published research from scientists and anecdotal evidence from naturalists can be be incorporated.

The idea is that these elements combined will form a "knowledge hub” which individuals and conservation organisations can use to develop novel presentations, workshop activities, written articles, media assets etc.

The intention is to enhance engagement with different audiences, and provide new insights into seeing the world from a whales perspective; principally aimed at an informed general public to include those that have been whale watching or seen previous presentations on Cetacean identification.