The Harbinger of Hope: Corinne Le Quéré
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
2023, Senior, Art
Climate Hero: Corinne Le Quéré; University of East Anglia, UK Climate Change Committee, French High Council on Climate, and The Royal Society Research Professorship
Reflection
Reflection
Growing up in Vietnam, I’ve always been interested in inspiring figures and models that set precedents and pave the way for others - especially the young generations - across all fields, whether that is scientific research or environmental activism. During the pandemic, I read numerous research studies regarding the development of vaccines and the environmental effects of the pandemic. One of the recurring names in the articles I read was climate scientist Corinne Le Quéré. At first, I was astonished by her impressive work for the scientific community; as I researched more about her for the development of my visual artwork or painting, I learned that she has numerous facets to her life that are extremely captivating and inspiring as well. My fear regarding the acceleration of climate change due to anthropogenic effects was mitigated and relieved after reading her research studies and policies, which propose direct and effective ways to address climate change on both a communal and national level across almost all regions of the world. I wanted to showcase Ms. Le Quéré not just as an accomplished scientist but also as an individual who has experienced many hardships in her life and started from a humble beginning, just like most people advocating for climate change today. I also wanted to promote the spirit of unity and environmental stewardship amongst all nations and species on Earth.