Researcher
Dr. Paco Martinez-Baena
What holds particular significance for you in/about Neilsen Park country and Bottle and Glass Point?
Seymour is particularly drawn to seaweed, a vital component in marine systems that provides food and habitat for diverse aquatic life. Seaweed aquaculture further positions itself as a potential aid in the climate crisis, holding uses as food, biofuels and fertilisers. It is important to recognise that First Nations have a deep and diverse traditional knowledge of Australian natural resources, including seaweed. Through Seymour’s research for the Rockpools project, she considers sustainable and ethical methods of ‘extracting’ seaweed as a material for artistic purposes.
Background
Dr. Paco Martinez-Baena is a Research Associate and Project Manager at the Sydney Institute of Marine Science (SIMS). Currently Paco leads a one-of-a-kind multi-habitat restoration project, Project Restore, where his pursuing his passion of restoring seascapes. As a marine ecologist and restoration practitioner, Paco believes that we can bring back our degraded estuaries and their ecosystems from the brink of extinction, and that moving from habitat-scale to seascape-scale can assist in boosting the resilience of these against climate change and urban impacts.
How do you create spaces for contemporary leadership, learning and collaboration with other people and the environment?
My work and leadership evolves tentatively but with focus. When people come together to discuss and learn, an approach that relies on openness, honesty, respect and dedication is required. I try to uphold this in all my movements as artist, collaborator, student and teacher.
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We live and work on Bidjigal, Birrabirragal and Gadigal Country. We honour the ongoing cultural and ecological relationships First Nations Australians hold with Country, waters and skies and acknowledge their continued custodianship.
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