Visual Essay

ripleygosling11
Apr 29, 2023
33 min read

Updated: Jul 16, 2025

Mini Brief 1. Deliberately Lost

For mini brief 1, "Deliberately Lost," I teamed up with a group of fellow students to embark on an adventure in Bristol, intentionally getting lost and documenting our journey in a sketchbook. Being from Bristol, getting truly lost proved to be a challenge. However, there was a lesser-explored aspect of Bristol that I wasn't as familiar with, the waterways. To navigate our way through the city, we decided to utilize the waterways as our guide. We hopped on Bristol ferries, allowing them to transport us along the rivers, and eagerly followed the suggestions provided by other passengers and the ferry staff. The following pages offer a glimpse into the discoveries we made during our escapade.

Mini Brief 2. Change Someones Day Through Illustration.

My original idea for the Change Someone's Day Project was to visit Bristol animal rescue centre and collect drawings of the animals to then create an adoption and fundraising project. Despite a keen interest in my project the correspondence was very slow and eventually died out, with the last email I received saying they would be in touch and unfortunately they never did.

I wondered if I could not only change someone's day, but also have that change have lasting effects on more than just that person, through the power of illustration, journalism and collaboration. My intention was to inspire someone enough to adopt an animal from an animal rescue centre by creating a series of illustrations depicting the animals available for adoption. Maybe someone considering adoption would be swayed by seeing the animal's character come out through the artwork, or even someone who had no intention of adoption at all, now considering it after seeing the artwork and associated fundraiser. Changing someone's day would also change their life going forward and an animal's life.

I contacted a local centre who expressed enthusiasm in collaborating with me, however despite a keen interest in my project the correspondence was very slow and eventually died out, with the last email I received saying they would be in touch and unfortunately they never did. The outcome was intended to be a fundraising exhibition of my illustrations in the rescue centre. I now had to rethink this.

I considered what it meant for an animal to end up in the rescue centre. And what traits a human needs to decide to care for animals.

After some first hand experiences, and researching animal abuses and general (mis)conceptions about certain animal groups, I concluded that, like with many subjects, information directed at educating children and grass roots would be a good approach to facilitate change.

They're NOT Just Pigeons

My module got off to a rocky start as I caught COVID-19 during the Easter break, which hindered my progress. However, while I was recovering, I felt the need to go out and draw again. I decided to visit the local harbour, where there's a popular spot on the marina that attracts both wildlife and people, making it an excellent location to sit and observe. During my visit, I documented the remarks made by individuals who interacted with the pigeons, ducks, and swans. Interestingly, a prevalent sentiment expressed by many people was their disregard for pigeons as sentient beings deserving of love and respect.

An incident involving a child, their parent, and an animal enthusiast left a lasting impression on me. The child, a young boy, was chasing after pigeons with great enthusiasm. While this might seem like a minor incident to some, it speaks volumes about our attitudes towards animals. It suggests that we find it acceptable and even enjoyable to cause animals distress, and that we view ourselves as superior to them, rendering their well-being and feelings irrelevant.

The woman who was feeding the birds asked the boy to stop chasing them, explaining that it was cruel and that the birds didn't like it. However, the boy ignored her, prompting the woman to ask again. At this point, the boy's mother intervened, cautioning the woman not to upset her son. This suggested that the mother herself hadn't considered the welfare of the animals, or that they were worth considering. Despite the woman's explanation that scaring animals was cruel, the boy continued to chase the birds. The woman reiterated that this behaviour was unacceptable and that scaring animals was a cruel act. The mother, in defence of her son, argued that he wasn't being cruel, but was simply behaving like any other six-year-old boy. She even claimed that because he was vegan, he couldn't be cruel to animals. The woman questioned whether being vegan made it acceptable to chase and harm the pigeons. As the mother and boy left, they dismissed the woman's concern, saying, "They're just pigeons."

The final statement, "They're just pigeons," encapsulated the underlying message of the entire encounter. It suggested that the pigeons had no value and were not sentient beings with any inherent rights. They were considered disposable playthings, and mistreating them was deemed acceptable. This incident also highlighted that such attitudes are learned, as the child saw chasing the birds as permissible behaviour and was encouraged by his mother's lack of regard for their welfare. Although this may seem like a minor incident, it is precisely these small actions that can help to create a better world. By teaching kindness and compassion towards all animals, we can become better individuals and help create a better planet.

If I could change a child's day from them chasing (and therefore distressing) pigeons, to them understanding and even loving them, this mindset, I hope, would bubble up through their lives, and they would spread their new ideas of care for these animals.

There is a common misconception that pigeons are unclean, unpleasant, and disease-carrying animals. However, the reality is that the chances of contracting a disease from a pigeon are extremely low, with the likelihood of being struck by lightning being greater. The fact that pigeons may be seen scavenging through rubbish, covered in pollution, and with malformed feet is a direct result of the influences that we have created. Without human interference, they would thrive in a natural world of greenery and trees but instead, they have adapted to survive in the grey concrete jungle we have created. Unfortunately, we have created a polluted and dirty environment for ourselves and for them. It would be wonderful if we all showed a little more love and compassion towards these creatures, starting with small gestures. Yet, the dismissive attitude of "they're just pigeons" prevails.

To shift the prevailing mindset about pigeons, I took the initiative to launch a poster campaign directed towards children. My objective was to dispel people's misconceptions by incorporating pigeon-related facts, vibrant illustrations, and messaging that encourages empathy towards these birds. By targeting children, I aimed to leverage their receptiveness to learning and their tendency to engage with pigeons in potentially harmful ways due to misguided adult influence. Ultimately, I hoped this campaign would empower children to form their own opinions about pigeons and treat them with greater respect.

Some sketches and photos on location:

Later, I created further sketches:

Project Expansion Ideas

Cases of Abuse Against Misunderstood Animals

Following a tutorial with Phil I was concerned that perhaps my pigeon project wasn't in depth enough so I expanded my horizons. I considered looking into specific animal abuse cases against misunderstood animals such as pigeons, foxes, squirrels, rats etc. Shaun Rhyder poisoning Pigeons. In an interview from Exposed magazine Shaun Ryder admitted to poisoning 3000 pigeons in Manchester. You and your mates drugged 3000 pigeons in Manchester. Yeah, me and a bunch of my mates did at 15. I’m not really proud of it. We used to get KFC and go eat it in the square but we had all these flying rats trying to nick it off us so we found a box of rat poison and put it in a loaf of bread. They ate it all and we then just watched as all these pigeons started falling out the sky. The local paper ran with the following headline: ‘Sickos Poison Pigeons’. Interview: Shaun Ryder - Exposed Magazine 24 Hour Party People (2002) - Poisoning Pigeons Scene (5/12) | Movieclips Step On: Rowetta from Happy Mondays - I also researched specific animal abuse cases in my quest for an investigative journalism project.. I found this angle quite distressing to read such graphic reports so that I felt it wasn't right for my project.

Nativeness and What Does That Mean?

I continued looking into misunderstood animals and researched game birds such as grouse and pheasants that are bred to hunt. My discoveries found that an enormous effort is made to breed these birds in captivity and release them into uk habitats, there is also an enormous environmental impact of this. Large swathes of moorland are repeatedly burned in an intensive land management scheme. There are many societies that claim to be conservation charities that support breed to hunt initiatives. Their argument is that breeding game birds to release into UK woodlands is beneficial to the environment and ecosystem. They receive a lot of funding from politicians and royalty and use this to create scientific research that supports their view. In my opinion this is just an excuse so they can go out and shoot animals for fun. Breeding for blood sports has a grizzly start with members of the gentry notable for their love of murdering animals and the high death count they carried. These include Lord Walsingham who was known as a crack shot. He had to have been to shoot more than one thousand game birds on a single day. His total—1,070—remains a world record, and it is unlikely that it will ever be exceeded. Thomas de Grey, also known as the 6th Lord Walsingham, lived in Blubberhouse Moor, a small village in the Yorkshire region of northeastern England. Living from 1861 to 1919, he was a well-respected member of the British gentry, serving in a variety of civic roles and renowned as a cricketer. But, it seems, he loved shooting birds above anything else. August 30 — Lord Walsingham Shot 1,070 Grouse (1888) Some links onto the world of game hunting and “conservation” . Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust The Knowledge - Every Gun's guide to conservation THE CODE OF GOOD SHOOTING PRACTICE In Conversation With Theresa Dent Pheasant and partridge classified as species that imperil UK wildlife | Rural affairs | The Guardian Grouse

National parks supposedly at the heart of efforts to tackle the climate crisis and boost nature are dominated by intensively managed grouse moors, according to new research.

Driven grouse moors, which are associated with the controversial burning of vegetation and the illegal persecution of birds of prey, make up 44% of the Cairngorms national park, 28% of the North York Moors and a fifth of the Peak District, a study by the charity Rewilding Britain has found.

A total of 852,000 acres – an area more than twice the size of Greater London – inside Britain’s national parks is devoted to driven grouse shooting, with grouse moors covering a quarter of the Yorkshire Dales, 15% of Northumberland national park and 2% of the Lake District.

“With over three-quarters of a million acres of our national parks devoted to driven grouse moors, the parks are being held back from tackling Britain’s collapsing biodiversity and the climate emergency,” said Guy Shrubsole, policy and campaigns coordinator for Rewilding Britain.

“The prime minister’s pledge to protect 30% of Britain’s land for nature – and count national parks towards this total – rings hollow when you realise that vast areas of our national parks are dominated by these nature-impoverished and heavily managed areas.”

Britain is the only country in the world to practise driven grouse shooting, a tradition which requires intensive management of heather moorland to produce large numbers of wild red grouse for shooting in the weeks after the “Glorious Twelfth” of August. Britain’s national parks dominated by driven grouse moors, says study 2021 article This became the beginning of doing a study into what nativeness means. There is a lot of effort put in to remove certain non native species of plants and animals and I would like to look into how effective these schemes are. Are they doing more harm than good? Is it all too late? Is there another agenda behind it all? What are the actual effects happening?

Squirrel

Grey squirrels receive a lot of hate and blame for the demise of the red squirrel. The red squirrel used to be very popular in Britain and their disappearance has caused controversy. Numerous sites explain the decline of the red squirrel as the responsibility of the grey squirrel. They don't directly kill the reds however they do have traits that make them more adaptable to urban environments. Red Squirrels cannot survive in urban parks and areas where greys are capable of adapting and therefore the greys have outnumbered the red. Habitat loss has greatly impacted the red squirrel and their need for native, natural coniferous woodland is essential. In the UK large areas of woodland have been destroyed or become separated by development and changing land-use. This leads to isolated areas which cannot sustain viable populations of wildlife, including red squirrels in some places. According to the Woodland Trust the UK’s woodland cover has more than doubled in the last 100 years, but much of this is non-native trees. Existing native woodlands are isolated, in poor ecological condition and this leads to a decline in woodland wildlife. State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2021

The introduction of non-native conifer woodlands was attempted as a means to bolster the population of native red squirrels. I find this introduction of non-native plants rather ironic. It was believed that red squirrels would flourish in coniferous habitats, as these forests typically offer a narrower range of food sources in the form of small-seeded cones, which red squirrels are better equipped to exploit compared to their more generalist grey counterparts.

Consequently, conifer plantations were expected to provide a more favourable environment for red squirrels than for grey squirrels. However, recent research challenges this perception and brings attention to the significant role played by pine martens. These indigenous predators were, until recently, also scarce, much like the red squirrels. However, the recovery of pine marten populations has revealed their positive impact on red squirrel populations, particularly in native broadleaf woodlands, as they help control the population of grey squirrels. This suggests that pine martens have a beneficial effect on red squirrel numbers.

A study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B discovered that the previous assumption does not hold true in conifer plantations. In such environments, where pine martens lack varied food sources, they end up preying on red squirrels instead, transitioning from protectors to threats. This finding highlights the crucial necessity for red squirrels to thrive in undisturbed, natural woodlands in the UK. Only in such habitats, which offer a balanced combination of food, predators, and nesting opportunities, can red squirrels truly flourish.

The grey squirrel has often been blamed for carrying the squirrel pox virus, which is lethal to red squirrels. However, it is essential to recognize that this virus was already present in the UK and had been causing the demise of red squirrels long before the arrival of grey squirrels on our shores. In fact, it was not too long ago when humans played a significant role in hunting red squirrels to the brink of extinction. Therefore, both direct culling and the destruction of their natural habitats have been major factors contributing to the decline of red squirrels.

Instead of acknowledging human hunting and habitat destruction as the primary factors driving red squirrels to near-extinction, politicians have opted to demonise grey squirrels. Consequently, laws have been introduced that require wildlife centres to euthanize any grey squirrels brought in by the public, prohibiting their release back into the wild. Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) clearly states that it is illegal to release or permit the escape of a grey squirrel into the wild. This mandates that if a captured grey squirrel cannot be safely released, it must be humanely put down. The repercussions of this regulation change have broader implications, not only for rescue centres but also for members of the public. Consider a scenario where you come across an orphaned grey squirrel and take it to your local wildlife rescue centre seeking assistance. Unfortunately, you may be informed that they are unable to release the squirrel back into the wild, and euthanasia is the only available course of action. As a compassionate individual, you would understandably be distressed by this outcome. However, lacking the necessary expertise to care for the orphaned animal yourself and with keeping a grey squirrel being illegal, you are faced with limited options. This situation undoubtedly leaves you feeling upset and concerned about the fate of the baby squirrel.

It is challenging to justify the systematic extermination of grey squirrels, considering the numerous similarities they share with their red squirrel counterparts. Grey squirrels were not originally native to this land, nor did they intentionally choose to be introduced here. Furthermore, they have no control over the presence of the pox virus they carry. They are simply living and behaving as grey squirrels naturally do. Despite this, year after year, we continue to cull them in staggering numbers, often employing methods claimed to be "humane" but which may still inflict pain and suffering upon the animals.

To what extent must grey squirrels be sacrificed for the survival of red squirrels? While proponents of this ongoing mass extermination claim its effectiveness, the actual outcome remains a subject of debate. Realistically, completely eradicating grey squirrels from the UK is not a feasible goal, as even Stephen Harris and his colleagues from the University of Bristol have concluded. In fact, Harris proposes an alternative approach. Rather than persisting with the culling of grey squirrels, he suggests relocating red squirrels to protected islands and allowing natural processes to unfold on the mainland. This strategy would save valuable time, money, and effort currently dedicated to persecuting grey squirrels.

In support of the grey squirrel, it is important to recognize that they are not inherently malevolent or harmful. They are merely a species that has been introduced to an environment where they have flourished. Instead of perpetuating their vilification, it may be worthwhile to contemplate more compassionate and sustainable methods of coexistence with them.

Nearly everyone acknowledges the impracticality of completely eradicating the grey squirrel population. The only notable instance of successful local eradication was observed in Anglesey, Wales, which involved the elimination of 9,597 grey squirrels over a span of 16 years. The cost of this endeavour amounted to £1,019,000, averaging about £106.18 per grey squirrel, inclusive of expenses associated with red squirrel reintroduction efforts. In light of these circumstances, it prompts the question of whether we are willing to perpetually engage in the relentless killing of unfortunate grey squirrels throughout the rest of the country.

I share concerns about the potential decline of Britain's native red squirrel population, but I find no satisfaction in the notion of perpetually culling tens of thousands of grey squirrels, and potentially even larger numbers in the future. It is crucial to recognize the grey squirrel as a highly adaptable species and treat them with respect. There are alternative approaches to consider. One possible solution could involve forest management practices that prioritise coniferous trees, which are preferred by red squirrels, over deciduous trees, which are preferred by grey squirrels. By creating habitats that favour red squirrels, we may find a more balanced and sustainable coexistence between the two species.

Perceptions of the grey squirrel vary, with some considering them as culprits while others see the inhumane treatment inflicted upon them by humans as unjust. It is crucial to recognize that conservation efforts do not need to resort to killing as the sole solution.

In addressing the presence of "problematic" animals, the initial response often tends to lean towards extermination, as seen in cases like badgers and TB. However, my preference is to explore avenues that circumvent the need for widespread culling of grey squirrels and instead allow natural processes to determine a new ecological equilibrium. While we may not have reached that stage yet, it remains crucial to actively pursue solutions that minimise the necessity for mass killings. Such approaches include the development of a vaccine against squirrel pox for red squirrels, implementing woodland management practices that favour red squirrels over greys, exploring the use of oral contraceptives, and potentially considering the reintroduction of pine martens as an alternative to trapping and shooting grey squirrels. By embracing these alternatives, we can strive for more humane and sustainable solutions.

The argument often made is that grey squirrels pose a threat to bird nests, but it is worth noting that red squirrels also engage in nest predation. However, there is limited evidence to suggest that grey squirrels have a substantial impact on songbird populations. In contrast, the detrimental effects of domestic and feral cats on songbird populations are well-documented. These cats are responsible for the estimated killing of at least 27 million wild birds annually in the UK alone, along with 92 million wild prey. It is surprising that those who advocate for culling grey squirrels to mitigate nest predation do not similarly advocate for the culling of domestic and feral cats, which have a comparatively greater impact on songbird populations.

The negative perception of grey squirrels cannot be solely attributed to a general hostility towards invasive species, as other non-native animals in the UK do not face the same level of criticism. The country is host to several naturalised mammals, including the brown hare, the edible dormouse, and sika deer. It is worth noting that even the widely adored rabbit was introduced to the UK by the Romans. I found Jason Gilchrist’s blog post very helpful and echos a lot of the issues I would like to raise. Links Jason Gilchrist: The Grey Squirrel conundrum: conservation v’s ethics Grey Squirrel Control: History of Control Conifer plantation push could threaten red squirrel population, study finds Red squirrels | The Wildlife Trusts Squirrels in the UK: what they are up to, when and why | Natural History Museum Rescued grey squirrels to be killed under new law – but Britain's 'invasive' problem runs much deeper In defence of the grey squirrel, Britain's most unpopular invader http://www.grey-squirrel.org.uk/reds.php Solving Problems with Squirrels | HelpWildlife.co.uk The role of ‘nativeness’ in urban greening to support animal biodiversity - ScienceDirect I wanted the impact of my project to be a positive one so looking into people campaigning for animal rights could be a good route to go down. Some example are: Hunt sabs Dont fuck with cats De stringing groups Anti hero skateboard Help for Stray Animals - FOUR PAWS in South Africa

Street Animals Around The World

As my project evolved from street animals in the UK I thought to broaden my horizons and document the lives of street animals around the world. Some questions I thought to ask are: Why are they liked/disliked Challenges Covid difficulties Who cares for them? Japan bunny island

Ōkunoshima, a small island situated in the Inland Sea of Japan, features a grassy terrain with a beach resort, nature lookouts, and piers. The circumference of the island is slightly more than two and a half miles, and one can walk around it in approximately an hour and a half. Except for the hundreds of feral European rabbits roaming the island, few call this tourist destination their home. Famously known as "Rabbit Island," Ōkunoshima's popularity has increased since a viral video in 2014 featured a woman being stampeded by bunnies. Other social media and videos displaying swarms of rabbits have attracted more visitors to the island. However, due to heavy human interference, the island is not a sustainable environment for the animals. The origin of the rabbits on Ōkunoshima remains a mystery. In 1929, the Japanese government conducted secret poison gas tests on the island, which was referred to as "Poison Gas Island" and removed from maps to conceal the operation. Rabbits were brought to the island as test subjects, and some speculate that the current population are their descendants. However, experts claim that the test rabbits were put down after the experiments ended. Other rumors suggest that a British couple introduced the rabbits or a nearby school released them in 1971. In 2007, approximately 300 rabbits were believed to inhabit the island, and the population has since grown to between 700 and 1,000. Japan Bunny Island Thailand monkeys

The monkeys hold a revered place in the Buddhist tradition. This is because Buddhists strongly believe in showing respect and compassion towards all living creatures, a principle that resonates well with animal lovers. Moreover, Buddhists also hold the belief of reincarnation, which suggests that many of us were once animals in a past life. In the Thai Buddhist tradition, humans and non-human animals are considered to be closely connected, both possessing a Buddha-nature and the potential to attain enlightenment.

They also believe in the transmigration of souls, where a soul can be reborn in either a human or non-human animal body. In Buddhist teachings, the monkey holds significant importance. Monkeys are protected by Buddhist temples, and their remains are often preserved after natural death. Buddhists believe that the presence of monkeys can bring prosperity and good fortune. The streets of the ancient city of Lopburi are home to numerous monkeys. Every year, a monkey festival is held, during which a large amount of food and drink is provided for the monkeys. Tourists are attracted to this spectacle, and the monkeys depend on them for the majority of their food. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism declined, and the monkeys were left starving, leading them to resort to desperate measures such as attacking locals for food. Lopburi Monkey Festival | National Geographic Thailand: The Buddha's Animal Kingdom - Save The Monkeys! The Monkey Festival Bringing Good Fortune to Thailand Istanbul cats

In Istanbul, the care and compassion towards animals are deeply ingrained in Turkish culture. Despite the large population of stray cats and dogs roaming the city's streets, they are considered integral members of society and receive utmost care for their wellbeing. Islam being the main religion in Turkey emphasises the significance of being kind to animals. However, beyond religion, it is also a vital aspect of their cultural identity. Turkish people believe that every being worships Allah in their unique way and deserves to be treated with consideration and respect. Kedi Documentary: Street Cats Of Istanbul | The Dodo Why Turks Love Animals Bali Dogs

The issue of animal welfare in Bali is a complex one. It is regular to see street dogs in bad condition but despite the appearance that locals may not care about the animals there is a large prevalence of poverty. Often, they are forced to make difficult choices between feeding their families or providing for animals. Additionally, there are significant risks of diseases such as rabies, and there is limited government support, aside from mass culls, which presents a conflicting approach. The Bali Heritage Dog, a unique breed of dog native to Bali, holds great significance in Balinese culture. Although its importance has only recently gained attention worldwide, Balinese priests have long recognized the breed's integral role in their culture. Since the earliest times in Bali's history, the Bali Heritage Dog has been known as a protector of both humans and spirits. There are more than a dozen dog shelters in Bali, providing essential welfare services for animals that are largely ignored by the island's government. All are facing an existential crisis after the long absence of tourists, who helped to finance many of these institutions. Pandemic-related border controls prevented them from entering Indonesia through much of 2020 and 2021. To make matters worse, hundreds of thousands of tourism workers are now unemployed, leaving many unable to sterilise or care for their pets.

According to Bali's Provincial Government, the island's dog population has grown significantly during the pandemic, from 573,000 in 2019 to 649,00 last year -- an increase of more than 13%. Bali's dog problem strays out of control - Nikkei Asia In attempts to curb rabies infections in Indonesia many street dogs are euthanized either through poison in food or darts. Dog Elimination Day It is now forbidden to feed stray dogs in Legian as the popular tourist area’s administration is looking to curb the spread of rabies. Abandoning dogs in the area is also now officially banned by local authorities. No more feeding stray dogs in Legian, official warns | Coconuts It is a known fact that dog meat is consumed in Indonesia, and the scale of the issue is alarming. According to conservative estimates, around one million dogs are consumed every year in the country. In certain areas such as the city of Solo, the number of dogs eaten annually reaches as high as 160,000. It's worth noting that these dogs are not sourced solely from Solo, but from other parts of Indonesia as well.” A taste for dog: Indonesia trade persists despite crackdown | Health News | Al Jazeera Bali Heritage Dog - Bali Animal Welfare Association (BAWA)Who Is BAWA? - Bali Animal Welfare Association (BAWA)What happens to street animals when tourists suddenly disappear?

People Who Live With Wild Animals

I thought more about human and animal relationships and researched cases of unusual interactions. There have been odd cases where people go to live with wild animals, inhabit the same spaces or rehabilitate a lost or injured animal and end up living together. Below are some findings. Hyena Man

Abbas Yusuf, known as the Hyena Man, learned to feed these wild animals from his father, Yusuf Mume Salleh, who used to throw them scraps to lure them away from his livestock. Years later, the tradition lives on and though it has become a popular tourist attraction, this remarkable relationship between man and beast runs deep. Hippo Family

A family rescued a stranded baby hippo and raised it as a member of their family. It comes and goes freely, often wandering into their home and receiving food and massages. It has since been on many tv shows

Jessica the Hippo Karl Pilkington visits pet hippo in South Africa https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&q=pet+hippo#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:e3a49c8b,vid:fKB4Oq9CDw0

Exotic Pets

During my research on the animal-human relationship, I delved into the world of exotic pets and the issues that arise from it. The trade and keeping of animals such as reptiles, amphibians, birds, and tropical fish are common, with a growing number of privately-owned mammals like wild cats and primates. This global trade is worth billions of pounds annually and involves millions of individual animals, many of which are destined to become someone's "pet." Unfortunately, the demand for wild animals as pets fuels both legal and illegal wildlife trade. Wild animals are widely available from pet shops, trade fairs, markets, and breeders and can be seen advertised for sale in newspapers and online. While some animals are bred in captivity to meet the demand, many others are captured from the wild, which disrupts ecosystems and may even threaten the extinction of certain species. While some countries allow for the export of captive-bred animals with proper legal documentation, countless animals are still illegally captured from the wild for the pet trade. These animals may be used for breeding, sold locally, smuggled out of the country, or mislabeled as captive-bred and exported legally. Conservationists see captive breeding as a way to prevent poaching, but researchers have found evidence of illegal activities, such as "laundering" animals to make them appear legally bred and traded. This problem is seen across a variety of species, from Indian star tortoises to red-eyed tree frogs. In recent years, the demand for exotic pets has skyrocketed and this can be largely attributed to the rise of e-commerce and social media platforms. These websites have made it easier for people to advertise the sale of live animals and show off their unique creatures. This has resulted in a surge of interest in exotic animals, which in turn has led to the poaching of many species for the pet trade. For instance, in 2015, videos of slow lorises eating rice balls in captivity went viral on YouTube and contributed to the illegal trade of these primates. TikTok Fueling exotic pet trade Social media has fueled a rise in exotic animals being kept as pets. They're often seen wearing nappies or fed from milk bottles in peoples houses. Viral trends, often exacerbated by celebrities or influencers, have led to widespread miseducation about the suitability of wild animals as pets. Online content, often misinterpreted as harmless, also risks creating more demand for wildlife being bred, captured, and sold for the pet trade.  Some TikTok accounts romanticise owning exotic animals. However, these accounts often fail to show the negative aspects of caring for these animals, such as bites, cleaning up after them, furniture damage, and increased expenses. When these animals are young, they may appear adorable and easy to handle, but as they grow, they can become aggressive and destructive. They may start biting their owners, including children, which is a far cry from the animal they initially brought home. Some examples of popular TikTok exotic pets are Axolotls, Capybaras, Ball Pythons, Bearded Dragons, Black widow spiders. According to experts, "cute" has a significant impact on human behaviour. The sight of something cute can evoke powerful emotions due to our evolutionary instincts, sometimes even making us want to squeeze or squish it. This research reminded me of the famous case of Charla Nash. In 2009, Sandra Herold sought the assistance of her friend Charla Nash to put her 200-pound pet chimpanzee, Travis, back into his cage. Unfortunately, Travis turned on Nash and viciously attacked her, causing severe injuries to her face and hands. Despite this horrific incident, Connecticut officials did not press charges against Herold. However, when Herold passed away in 2010 due to a ruptured aortic aneurysm, Nash's family continued with a civil suit seeking $50 million in damages. Nash went on to make history as the first patient to receive a double hand and face transplant.

Exotic pet trade, explained WILD ANIMALS AS PETS: WHAT ARE THE ISSUES? Wild animals kept as pets are suffering for ‘likes’ on social media “Social media regularly misrepresents exotic animals as suitable pets and downplays the problems” - Veterinary Practice Axolotls and capybaras are TikTok famous—and that could be a problem 5 Tragic Stories of Exotic Pet Ownership Gone Wrong Chimp Attack Survivor Charla Nash Opens Up About Face Transplant Setback | TODAY Inside Travis The Chimp's Gruesome Attack On Charla Nash Tiger King

Joe Exotic, a well-known figure in the exotic pet trade, gained notoriety through his operation of a big cat zoo in Oklahoma. The popular Netflix series "Tiger King" showcased Joseph Maldonado-Passage, aka Joe Exotic, a flamboyant character who described himself as a "gay, gun-toting cowboy with a mullet." Despite his antics, Joe Exotic's activities drew attention from animal welfare advocates and law enforcement officials. He was ultimately convicted and sentenced to prison in 2019 for plotting to have his rival, Carole Baskin, who runs Big Cat Rescue in Florida, killed. The legality of owning big cats is unclear and varies depending on the state. While the Endangered Species Act prohibits the possession and purchase of endangered species, regulations for captive-bred wildlife are not as well-established. In six states, including Oklahoma, people are allowed to keep big cats as pets, but 35 states have banned this practice, each with different exemptions and levels of enforcement. Roadside zoos, like the G.W. Zoo operated by Joe Exotic, are widespread in the United States, with a few hundred established throughout the country. The Tiger King documentary illustrates how once someone enters the world of big cat ownership, it can be relatively easy to continue buying, selling, and breeding them without attracting the attention of law enforcement.

The Wild Story Behind the Netflix Docuseries 'Tiger King' | Time What happened to Joe Exotic's zoo in Tiger King? | Radio Times

Poster Design Research

I looked at other activism posters which are bold and colourful and blocky. I looked at film posters and book posters that gave me a positive response, not a repulsive response. I wanted to present pigeons as I saw them naturally, chaotic and wild, but I wanted a personality to come through (which is also what I wanted for the animal adoption campaign).

From drawings in my sketchbooks I went on to create some digital artworks. I then used these to design some Riso printed posters for my Pro Pigeon campaign.

I played with colours, testing out complimentaries, greyscale and interpreting into Riso inks.

How my poster designs evolved:

My objective was to dispel people's misconceptions by incorporating pigeon-related facts, vibrant illustrations, and messaging that encourages empathy towards these birds. By targeting children, I aimed to leverage their receptiveness to learning and temper their tendency to engage with pigeons in potentially harmful ways due to misguided adult influence. Ultimately, I hoped this poster campaign would empower children to form their own opinions about pigeons and treat them with greater respect.

After several iterations trying to present text on the posters I felt it wasn’t as impactful as having a simple message that was evocative enough to inspire a child or person to look further. I decided a more illustrated and less text based poster design would be more encouraging for people to engage with. I took the line “They’re Just Pigeons” as it is what I heard spoken as a justification for chasing them, and thought the juxtaposition of a colourful exciting poster, with that message would be enough to trigger someone to think “what about pigeons?” and to follow the posters links and discover more. The ambiguity of the message They’re Just Pigeons I hope makes people curious about what the project is.

After a tutorial I was concerned about the posters being too ambiuous and my message possibly being misinterpreted. Wanting to keep the strapline 'They're Just Pigeons' as this was the remark so frequently over heard as excuse for distressing the birds I decided to add 'NOT'.

Final Poster Designs:

The Finished Prints:

Some close up details:

Artist Research

Sue Coe

Since the 1970s, Sue Coe has worked at the juncture of art and social activism to expose injustices and abuses of power. Coe has always been ahead of the curve on social issues, her art a conduit for her progressive politics. Thinking of herself as an activist first and artist second, she has trained her gaze on a wide variety of ills, translating such diverse topics as the perils of apartheid, the life of Malcolm X, and the horror that is the American meat industry into artworks, exhibitions, and books.

I like Sue Coe's evocative art style, however when thinking about my poster design aesthetic I think a child would find them scary and not necessarily be on the animals side.

Splash and Burn

The artwork produced by the collaborative group, Splash and Burn, left a profound impression on me. The direct impact of their pieces on the issues they address is truly remarkable. In particular, I was struck by their use of street art to raise awareness about the negative effects of palm oil on the environment. Their approach, which avoids creating tension and defensiveness by simply presenting statistics and facts, is very effective. Instead, they engage the public in conversation through art, seeking to educate and inspire positive change.

Splash and Burn Activist art tackles palm oil industry - BBC News

Aaron Staples

Part of the activist’s challenge is to grip, to inspire people to action. With the avalanche of information most of us are faced with every day, this is increasingly hard to do. Sometimes it’s too much to ask people to stop and think; sometimes it’s too much to just ask them to stop.

For Aaron, successful art compels this. It penetrates apathy, imploring the viewer to “look deeper and explore the narrative … to give them time to stop and think.”

In this greenpeace article and activist art i really liked these quotes:

“Art is a lens to look at issues that are too complex to examine in words.”

“Artwork offers a visual language that doesn’t know any borders.”

“There’s no convincing anyone with art. They just see, and to see is to believe.”

4 Reasons Art Is Essential to Activism - Greenpeace USA

Aaron Staples

Art for Change

Wings of Paradise, Worldwide

From Jakarta to Mexico City, New York to Prague, artists collaborated with Greenpeace to make city walls their canvas in order to draw attention to the destruction of the Indonesian rainforest by the palm oil industry.

The Wings of Paradise project in 2018 had 20 giant murals, many larger than 25 square metres, in 20 cities worldwide. The project was a part of a Greenpeace campaign calling for global brands to protect rainforests, its biodiversity and communities and stop buying palm oil from forest destroyers.

Mural ideas

Upon reflection of comments made in a tutorial I would like to further my project by creating a mural. I would like it to have a persuasive story that will change peoples minds about street birds.

I was inspired by banksy's pigeon graffiti and the clear message he gets across. I reflected upon comments about my posters needing a more direct strapline and considered how best to achieve this.

I like the idea of telling two stories through one image and getting the viewer to question what they see. Some possible ideas for this include doing a heaven and hell scene / utopia vs dystopia in a directional painting where the story reverses depending on the direction it's read(up/down left/right).

I am also considering an x-ray style painting with two images overlaid. This would be painted in two colours which would tie in nicely with my posters.

Some artists successfully doing this are Insane 51 and Shok-1. Their work is very visually impactful and I like their use of limited colour palettes.

Bird Architecture

A common negative bird sentiment is anti bird architecture like bird spikes. I thought a good idea to reverse this would be to create some decorative bird houses that are both visually beautiful and create a home for pigeons. I was very inspired by ottoman sparrow palaces and would like to create some ceramic pigeon houses that could be mounted outside and benefit both birds and people. The houses would create homes for birds out of the way of humans and also be visually attractive. Win, win!

The Ornate Bird Palaces of Ottoman-Era Turkey — Colossal

Mural

After initially designing images of pigeons and humans under an x-ray to symbolise animal testing, I realised that my concept had veered too far from the core message of my anti-animal abuse campaign. Recognizing the need to stay focused, I decided to return to the drawing board and reassess my approach.

In my renewed exploration, I contemplated the idea of depicting pigeons and humans anatomically to emphasise our shared internal structure. This concept seemed to align more closely with the message I wanted to convey. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, I wasn't able to fully develop this idea and bring it to its full potential.

Publication

I explored two different ideas for my zine and created wireframes for both concepts.

The first idea revolved around an environmental and existential message. I wanted to convey the interconnectedness between our actions and the well-being of the planet. Below, you'll find some initial drafts of ideas for this concept, captured in wireframe form.

Below is an editorial statement for idea 1

Coexist Definition:

to exist together at the same time or in the same place
to exist together in peace

I'd like to think about what it means to co-exist. We humans, in an urban modern, western society don't tend to think of ourselves as coexisting with other animals. We have removed ourselves so far from nature that animal interactions rarely intercept our daily lives. In fact when a wild animal does interact it is often perceived as a hindrance or a nuisance.

We built ourselves buildings to keep out the unwanted. We built roads to connect our towns and cities. We diverted rivers and laid claim to the skies. We dug greedily for oil, coal and gas. We invented cars, planes and trains as we busied ourselves away in our daily lives. We invented pesticides and fungicides and waged war on nature. We invented factory farming and turned animals into vacuum packed packets of inanimate shapes in supermarkets.

We hustle and bustle, frantically filling our days with schedules, meetings and itineraries, waiting for the day to end so we can get up tomorrow and do it all again. We go from office screen, to phone screen, to tv screen numb to the world and the futility of it all. And we forgot.

We forgot how to plant seeds, how to grow and to nurture. We forgot the sights and sounds of the forest, and how to tell the signs of a wild animal. We forgot what it means to be hungry and not to know where the next meal will come from. We forgot the importance of balance and care. And we forgot what it means to be animals ourselves.

And yet, we are in a constant state of coexistence. For animals have managed to make the best of the concrete grey jungle we have bulldozed over their home. Or they have perished. For the survivors they nest in rooftops, swim amongst plastic, consume trash, like discarded debris themselves. They become entangled in rubbish and lose limbs and we look down on them as grotesque. They come to us in search of food, of which we have bought so conveniently and we shoo, chase or kick them away. How dare they assume they can ask us for food!

And so, I invite you to come and take a closer look. If we sit and observe we can see creatures with sentience and personality, all trying to survive. For it is not them in our world it is we who inhabit theirs. I write this message as a plea to see the beauty that still lingers.

In this zine I will show a light on society's misunderstood “pest”, the pigeon. I hope that I can show you the world that I see. For I do genuinely believe there is a world where we can all coexist and thrive.

In my exploration, I will delve into the profound reflection between humans and animals, aiming to understand what it truly feels like to walk in their shoes. Through illustrations, I intend to shed light on what may seem like extreme cases, but in reality, we are already a part of them. It's just that, for us, they remain out of sight and out of mind.

I firmly believe that cultivating a kinder and more compassionate society for all begins with the small actions we take. So, let us remember not to chase the pigeons. This seemingly simple act serves as a reminder of our responsibility towards the welfare of all living beings and the role we can play in making a positive difference.

I researched belief systems and found quotes from thinkers with animal welfare in mind that i could use to inform my illustrations.

Humanists:

Animals are not here for us to do

as we please with. We are not

their superiors, we are their

equals. We are their family. Be

kind to them.’

Ricky Gervais

‘Why should we think that they have

inner natural instincts different from

anything we ourselves experience?’

Michel de Montaigne

“By ceasing to rear and kill animals for

food, we can make so much extra food

available for humans that, properly

distributed, it would eliminate starvation

and malnutrition from this planet.

Animal Liberation is Human Liberation

Too” Peter Singer

The only justifiable stopping place for

the expansion of altruism is the point at

which all whose welfare can be acted

by our actions are included within the

circle of altruism. This means that all

beings with the capacity to feel pleasure

and pain should be included.’

Peter Singer

Buddhism:

All beings tremble before violence. All love life. All fear death. See yourself in others. Then whom can you hurt? What harm can you do?

“The beginning of mindful eating is the realization that eating meat is not about the meat-eater; it is about the animals who are tormented and killed.”

Idea 2:

I wanted to compile all my research and artwork from the past months and curate my findings into a compelling story within the pages of my zine.

The journey begins with observational sketches and snippets of conversations overheard at a spot on the Bristol harbour, where the coexistence of people and wildlife is apparent. It is here that I found inspiration and a deeper understanding of the message I wish to convey.

At the heart of my zine lies a humanist message, a philosophy that advocates for a kinder and more compassionate society, where humans and animals exist in perfect harmony as equals. I firmly believe that achieving this vision starts with seemingly small acts that hold profound meaning. By fostering understanding and empathy towards other creatures, we can overcome our fears and develop genuine connections with them. When we appreciate their unique abilities and recognize their significance, our care and concern for their well-being naturally deepen.

One vital aspect of realising this compassionate society is instilling these values in children. By teaching them to embrace kindness, care, modesty, and humility, we pave the way for a brighter future. When the younger generation grows up with an inherent respect and empathy for all living beings, they become the catalysts for positive change.

Through my zine, I aspire to inspire others to embrace this philosophy, to see the beauty in our coexistence with animals, and to take action in creating a world where compassion and harmony reign supreme. Together, let us embark on this journey towards a future where every being is valued and celebrated. And so the name Co-Exist was made.

Co-Exist is intended to be a recurring publication, with each edition shining a spotlight on a different animal. Specifically, aiming to shed light on animals that are often considered pests or nuisances. By focusing on these creatures, I hope to challenge the prevailing negative perceptions and educate people about the inherent beauty and value they possess.

In this particular edition, the spotlight is on pigeons. Through engaging content and captivating illustrations, readers will discover fascinating insights about these birds and why they deserve to be viewed differently. To further encourage positive interaction with pigeons, each copy of the zine includes a set of illustrated stickers and a packet of seeds. These additions allow readers to actively engage with the animals in a meaningful way and gain firsthand experiences that offer fresh perspectives.

By providing readers with the means to interact positively with the highlighted animals, the zine aims to bridge the gap between humans and these perceived nuisances. It encourages a deeper understanding of their importance within our ecosystem and fosters a sense of appreciation for their unique qualities.

Through this ongoing zine series, my hope is to cultivate a shift in perception, where individuals come to recognize the inherent worth of all creatures, reconsider their designation as pests. Together, we can embrace a more compassionate and harmonious coexistence with the animal kingdom, fostering a greater respect for the interconnectedness of all life.

To ensure a cohesive and synchronised package, I decided to maintain a consistent design theme for my zine that aligns with the aesthetic of my posters. I opted to carry forward the captivating combination of pink and blue hues, which have become synonymous with my campaign. Additionally, I chose to preserve the sketchy illustration style that adds a distinctive and engaging visual element. By retaining these design elements across both the zine and the posters, I create a seamless and unified experience for the audience and a brand identity. Through this intentional design approach, I aim to enhance the overall impact and memorability of my message, ensuring that it resonates with the viewers and leaves a lasting impression.

Online and in print:

Online:

Creating the full package, seeds, stickers, publication and posters.

Filling the envelopes with seeds:

Co-Exist in print!

Back on Location

Returning to the site that initially inspired my project, I brought along the posters and zines. The sunny harbor was bustling with families and pigeons, creating an ideal atmosphere for reflection. The posters garnered considerable interest, and I received valuable feedback. It was heartening to hear that everyone had acquired fresh knowledge about pigeons, resulting in a positive and receptive response.