The City of Madison Arts Commission has announced the installation of a temporary environmental art piece called “Preserve” at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. This new addition to the arboretum transforms scientific documentation into visual art, highlighting the biodiversity found in Wisconsin.
The installation features 1,000 documented species, aiming to showcase local ecological richness while promoting conservation efforts and environmental stewardship. The project is inspired by Aldo Leopold’s work, particularly his time as the first director of the UW-Madison Arboretum and his book “A Sand County Almanac,” which was based on observations from the 1930s and 1940s.
The historical connection to Leopold adds depth to “Preserve,” making it both an artistic statement and a call for action regarding contemporary environmental issues. The installation serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving biodiversity in today’s world.
