Endangered Time

Artist: Emma Martin

Medium: digital art

The world we live in is made up of globalized capitalism which thrives on the violence of settler colonization. Stated differently, the growth of the global economy threatens our existence. Endangered Time is about an old gravel pit; sold in 2016 to a developer with plans to construct it into housing and green space even though the Byron gravel pit has begun to renaturalize, providing refuge to local wildlife. The area has been untouched in parts for many years allowing a delicate ecosystem to return: home to nearly 2000 nesting Bank Swallows, the Byron pit hosts one of the largest colonies in the province. The endangered birds have been migrating to the pit for years now, they will return to find a development company working where they once flourished. How can both our species and the natural world co-exist?

About the Artist

I am Emma Martin, an Indigenous photographer residing in London Ontario, studying at OCADU, who is a nature enthusiast. I advocate as nature’s voice. I was born and raised in the Ottawa Valley, and this allowed for my love of nature to grow and illuminate. In my work and daily life I focus on the rehabilitation of Mother Earth. My photography is based on addressing ongoing social change and climate issues. I believe in moderation meaning no more over consumption, instead we should be co-existing with Mother Earth. Taking only what we need, oppose to terraforming the world to meet our needs.

See more of Emma’s work here.