Episode 153: Suzy Sharpe – Impressions of Nature

May 6, 2024

Suzy Sharpe is a British painter and printmaker who examines the bond between humans and nature through her art. In this engaging conversation, she shares her journey balancing family life with studying fine art. Suzy discusses her love for Cornwall’s wildlife, the emotional impact of nature on our identities, and how children's perspectives can reignite our sense of awe. She explains the beauty of botanical monoprinting and reflects on the role of storytelling in fostering environmental awareness.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Early Connections and Creative Expressions in Nature

02:07 • 2min

Navigating Art: From Challenges to Reflection

04:05 • 6min

Nature's Tapestry: Connection and Reflection

10:25 • 20min

Nature, Art, and Identity Intertwined

30:22 • 18min

Exploring Monoprinting: Nature Meets Art

48:46 • 6min

The Historical Beauty of the Colombian Printing Press

54:56 • 2min

A Language Older Than Words

Derrick Jensen

Derrick Jensen's "A Language Older Than Words" is a powerful and provocative exploration of the relationship between humans and the natural world. Jensen argues that the dominant culture's worldview is inherently destructive to the environment and that a fundamental shift in consciousness is necessary to prevent ecological collapse. He uses a blend of personal narrative, historical analysis, and scientific evidence to support his claims. Jensen's writing is characterized by its intensity and urgency, reflecting his deep concern for the planet's future. The book challenges readers to confront their own complicity in environmental destruction and to consider alternative ways of living in harmony with nature. It's a call to action that resonates with those seeking to create a more sustainable and just world.

The animal that therefore I am

Jacques Derrida

Jacques Derrida's "The Animal That Therefore I Am" is a philosophical exploration of the relationship between humans and animals. Derrida challenges traditional philosophical approaches to the subject, arguing that the human/animal distinction is a construct that obscures the complex and often ambivalent nature of our interactions with animals. He uses a blend of philosophical analysis and personal anecdotes to explore the ethical and ontological implications of our treatment of animals. Derrida's writing is characterized by its complexity and its willingness to challenge established norms. The book is a significant contribution to the field of animal studies and raises important questions about our responsibilities to other living beings. It's a challenging but rewarding read for anyone interested in the philosophical dimensions of human-animal relations.

The Wild Places

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Robert Macfarlane

Robert McFarlane's "The Wild Places" is a captivating exploration of the British landscape, delving into its history, ecology, and cultural significance. McFarlane's writing style is both lyrical and insightful, weaving together personal anecdotes with historical accounts and scientific observations. The book celebrates the beauty and power of nature while also acknowledging the impact of human activity on the environment. It's a journey through diverse landscapes, from remote mountains to bustling cities, revealing the hidden wonders and unexpected connections that exist between humans and the natural world. McFarlane's work inspires a deeper appreciation for the wild spaces that remain and the importance of preserving them for future generations.

Animal liberation

Peter Singer

First published in 1975, 'Animal Liberation' by Peter Singer has been a pivotal book in the animal rights movement. It introduces the concept of 'speciesism,' the systematic neglect and exploitation of nonhuman animals. Singer argues that the interests of all beings capable of suffering should be given equal consideration, regardless of their species. The book critiques factory farming and animal experimentation, presenting alternatives and advocating for a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. The revised edition, 'Animal Liberation Now,' updates the arguments to reflect current issues, including environmental impacts and the spread of viruses from factory farms[1][3][5].

Women who run with the wolves

Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype

ANTONIA MENINI PAGES

Clarissa Pinkola Estes

Maria Antonia Menini

María Antonia Menini Pagès

In 'Women Who Run With the Wolves,' Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés uses rich intercultural myths, fairy tales, and stories to help women reconnect with the fierce, healthy, visionary attributes of the Wild Woman archetype. The book draws heavily on folk tales and mythology from around the world to explore themes of female self-awareness, the forces that stand in the way of this awareness, and the necessary growth cycles of life, death, and rebirth. Estés guides the reader through various stories and commentaries to retrieve, examine, love, and understand the Wild Woman, emphasizing her natural affiliation with the wolf and highlighting the importance of intuition, resilience, and adaptability in reclaiming one's instinctual self[1][3][4].

Metamorphoses

Frank Justus Miller

Robert Squillace

Ovid

Crow country

Agnes L. McGrath Jones