ACS Monterey Bay Program for March 2006

The Humpback Whales of Tonga

MMCTA Concept Image

Thursday, March 30, 2006 7 p.m. Refreshments, 7:30 p.m. Program Lecture Hall, Monterey Boatworks, Hopkins Marine Station, Pacific Grove (Across from American Tin Cannery Outlet Stores) Speaker: Bryant Austin

Artist and activist Bryant Austin will share his ongoing work with Humpback whales in the southwest Pacific Kingdom of Tonga and the nonprofit organization he founded, Marine Mammal Conservation through the Arts (MMCTA). Austin and Humpback biologist Libby Eyre are collaborating to produce life-size photographic images of whales for their international "Whales in Public Spaces" campaign.

Marine mammals face significant obstacles in their survival as we begin the 21st century and without sufficient continued public outreach, the effect of our growing population on the ocean environment could be catastrophic. Their goal is to reach a new and larger audience which has yet to be inspired by whales and their plight. Austin lives and works in Santa Cruz and has spent the past six years photographing marine mammals with the support of his dedicated volunteer team.

Members should know that these Humpbacks may be taken in the future if proposed Japanese "research whaling" efforts go ahead.

Our speaker works in partnership with the Pacific Cetacean Group which is based locally.

This was our first program on the southern hemisphere Humpback.

Related web pages:

• Marine Mammal Conservation Through The Arts
• Pacific Cetacean Group

• Back to list of previous meetings.