Description
Alaska’s state motto, “North to the Future,” was adopted in 1967 during the Alaska Purchase Centennial and was coined by Juneau newsman Richard Peter. This inspiring phrase symbolizes Alaska as a land of promise, innovation, and boundless potential.
A close friend of mine, Marylou Blakeslee, has worked as a naturalist on cruise ships in Alaska for many years. Through her deep connection to the land, she has long expressed concerns about the profound effects of climate change, a topic she has followed closely for over two decades. Her insights have kept me attuned to the early warning signs and the delicate balance that defines our collective future.
This artwork seeks to reflect Alaska’s intricate and fragile ecosystem. It incorporates glacial landscapes, fishermen, Native Alaskan communities, and the dual degradation of natural and man-made habitats. It also highlights many of Alaska’s endangered species, capturing the urgency of preserving this extraordinary yet vulnerable environment.