Photographing Effects of Extreme Weather: Art Viewing, Panel & Nature Walk
SSU Art Gallery, then Copeland Creek Corridor & Native Plant Garden
Thu, Oct 15, 2:00 pm
– 3:30 pm
Admission Fees: none
Join students of the "Intro to Photography" and "Weather & Climate" courses for an art viewing of Andrew Owen's large scale photography exhibit "Mere Seconds," engage in a panel discussion with the artist and Professor Nicole Myers, then take part in a gentle walk along the Copeland Creek Trail to the Native Plant Garden, where we can observe and reflect with nature.
Mere Seconds presents sixteen landscape photographs by Andrew Owen that examine ecological transformation across California during recent cycles of megafires and floods. Created between 2020 and 2026, the series grew from extensive travel documenting communities and environments shaped by extreme weather. Working primarily with a 4-by-5 view camera, Owen focuses on physical and conceptual boundaries where ecological change, human experience, and moments of the sublime converge.
Mere Seconds examines the climate crisis through an expansive visual lens. Photographs of burned terrain, fire-retardant-stained fields, and other transformed environments are juxtaposed with moments of unexpected beauty, revealing tensions between vulnerability and resilience, loss and renewal. Blending documentary observation with poetic sensibility, the exhibition reflects on California's changing landscapes and the broader ecological and cultural narratives that shape our relationship with the natural world.
This event is part of a series in partnership with the SSU Art Gallery.
Presenters
- Andrew Owen, artist
- Nicole Myers, Programs Specialist at The Center for Environmental Inquiry and Geology Department Faculty, Sonoma State University
Logistics
This event is free of charge.
We will meet at the SSU Art Gallery for the panel discussion and art viewing, then walk together to the Copeland Creek Corridor and Native Plant & Butterfly Garden. The Art Gallery is located on the north-west side of campus, just west of the lakes, closest to Parking Lot A (note that this is a Reserved lot). We recommend purchasing a Daily Parking Permit in advance by clicking here then selecting "Sonoma State,” or you can take public transportation to the bus stop at the campus south entrance on Redwood Drive.
No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate. The maximum distance will be less than 0.5 mile on relatively flat, unpaved ground.
All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Smoking and tobacco products are not permitted on the SSU campus. Restrooms are available on site. This is a rain or shine event, as the event will remain inside if necessary.
What to Bring
Please bring footwear for walking in gardens and dirt paths.
How to Sign Up
See registration link above. Each participant should register separately.
This event is free of charge.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.