Save the Lobsters
North Yarmouth, ME
2023, Senior, Art (2014 – 2023)
Climate Hero: Jill Pelto
Reflection
Making this piece pushed me to learn more about the Maine lobster population and how climate change is impacting them. Jill Pelto's art inspired me because she includes data within her pieces. I used a graph that shows the fluctuating lobster population over the years in relation to climate change/warming. I have lived in Maine my whole life and learning more about the lobster industry always feels important. A massive part of our economy solely depends on the lobstermen. If our lobster population tends to decrease or move further north, we could lose a ton of business. I want viewers to understand the impact of climate change and how its affecting this specific species. Lobsters can't become something of the past. They play a huge role in maintaining biodiversity because they feed on multiple kelp-consuming species. If it weren't for lobsters, there would be unbalanced species among kelp forests. Jill Pelto's art gives me hope for the future because maybe people will listen if the data is shown through beautiful artwork.