Marcia Bjornerud

Marcia Bjornerud, an author and geologist, captivates listeners with tales from Earth’s deep past. She discusses how rocks serve as archives of evolutionary stories, highlighting the contrast between ephemeral oceanic crust and enduring continental formations. Bjornerud critiques the Newtonian lens in science, advocating for a Darwinian perspective that embraces complexity. She warns about the dangers of simplistic views on climate change and emphasizes the need for 'deep timefulness' to connect with our planet's rich history and inspire sustainable practices.

Join geologist Marcia Bjornerud, renowned cave art photographer Stephen Alvarez, and artist Dustin Illetewahke Mater as they explore the concept of deep time versus our fleeting moments. They discuss how ancient rocks and cave paintings serve as records of human history and consciousness. The conversation uncovers the importance of reconnecting with our ancestral roots through art and nature. Discover the emotional pull of cave art, the urgency of addressing climate change, and the philosophical implications of our relationship with the Earth.

Marcia Bjornerud, a professor of geology at Lawrence University and a lyrical writer, delves into the fascinating narratives embedded in rocks. She emphasizes geology as a vital tool for understanding Earth's 3.5 billion-year history and our identity. Bjornerud highlights Earth's uniqueness and the artistic creativity of geological processes. She discusses the role of continental shelves as archives of our planet's climate and the interconnectedness of geological events with life evolution. Her insights inspire a deeper appreciation for nature's stories.

Guests: Marcia Bjornerud, Stephen Alvarez, Dustin Illetewahke Mater. Topics: Geological time, ancient cave art, making art inspired by ancestors, cultural identity. Exploring deep time and the significance of longer-term perspectives. Fascination with areas without official time, such as Svalbard. Thinking like a geologist for comfort and perspective. Rocks as animate beings, blurring the line between animate and inanimate. Preparation to visit an ancient rock art site and speculation about its purpose. Significance of ancient art and its connection to cultural identity. The importance of being a part of nature.

Geologist Marcia Bjornerud, photographer Stephen Alvarez, and artist Dustin Illetewahke Mater discuss various fascinating topics in this podcast. From the wonders of ancient cave art to making art inspired by ancestors, they delve into shifting our minds to 'geologic' time and appreciating Earth's way of keeping time. They explore the cognitive challenge of understanding deep time and the impact of visual images on human evolution. They also discuss the significance of connecting with ancient art in caves and finding stillness and connection with nature.