Sketchy Model

The photograph captures a moment of artistic creativity amidst long sessions of programming, highlighting our research on developing a population model for freshwater mussels, one of the most imperiled animal groups in the United States. As we simulate the impacts of various stressors, it is easy to lose touch with the real organisms hidden behind the numbers. Simple hand-drawn pencil sketches help bring these species to life, making our modeling efforts more tangible and meaningful in the context of conservation. Through this blend of art and science, we strive to reconnect with the living beings our work aims to protect.