Biologists and artists alike judge the world by visual cues to some extent. How they use these cues is very different. Artists will interpret and appreciate. Scientists will identify and measure. Regardless of these differences, it is the details of the subject that make all the difference. Color, texture, pattern, and shape: these are all things we use to identify the world around us, and also the things that make different creatures superficially unique. In my project I wanted to get close to my subject, no matter how tiny, to show the complexity of each animal. In studying the creatures students must get up close and personal with each temporary capture. Students are used to digging through the muck and grime for a chance to hold and measure each specimen; all the while being extremely gentle to not push or squeeze too tightly. Fieldwork becomes an art of intrigue and careful handedness as students work.
