Reflection

Reflection

Growing up in California, the distinct smell of smoke fills my August and September days. I see news stories about massive wildfires frequently, although I have not been forced to evacuate (yet). On September 9, 2020, I awoke to see the Bay Area bathed in blood-orange hues, and I pondered the seemingly supernatural nature of the effect. However, science explains this phenomenon: thick layers of smoke reflect short wavelengths of light, including blue light, away from the Earth’s surface. Meanwhile, smoke particles refract long wavelengths of light, including red and orange ones, toward the Earth. Undeniably, climate change and global warming increase the intensity, area, and duration of wildfires. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimates, “For much of the U.S. West, projections show that an average annual 1 degree C temperature increase would increase the median burned area per year by as much as 600 % in some types of forests.” Through my piece “Caution! Extreme Heat Danger,” I encourage a personal connection between viewers and climate change. Placing my brother in the foreground, I demonstrate how those who face forest fires are not merely “talking heads” on the news but real people: family members, friends, and coworkers. The top of my brother’s head is on fire, symbolizing the loss of human life. In addition, I contrast living trees with dead trees to highlight the destruction of nature. I shrouded the portrait in grayscale to mimic the style of historical photographs. This is a nod to global warming’s long history, as it spans from the 19th century to the present day. “Caution! Extreme Heat Danger” simultaneously serves as a warning of the dangers of climate change, as well as motivation to take action in time to avoid severe consequences. Climate change affects all of us, and all of us can contribute to the fight against it.