Pin Your Support for Tidal Marsh
August 7, 2024
Today, artist Jordan Ma of Observation Society and Point Blue Conservation Science are thrilled to announce the launch of a six species tidal marsh restoration enamel pin series! Each species represents a key species within San Francisco Bay’s tidal marsh ecosystem. Our shared hope is that these pins will ignite more Bay Area public engagement in the magic, wonder, and benefit of this integral habitat around our beloved bay. We hope it spurs public pride in protecting these species and widespread support for restoration of their home.
This collaboration aims to engage the Bay Area community in learning about and supporting healthy marshes around the SF Bay. Purchase pins here!
The Western Pygmy-Blue Butterfly, Salt Marsh Common Yellowthroat, Black Rail, Ridgway’s Rail, Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse, and Pickleweed: Get your favorite or purchase the set!
Find more info about each species and purchase them here!
How and why did this all happen?
It was a combination of pandemic lock down, social media connection, and a shared belief that art is integral to motivating action. The “why” in a nutshell is to spark joy and inspiration towards appreciating and conserving nature.
Along Jordan’s journey as an artist there was a point where he veered more strongly into the depths of nature’s hidden treasures. During the lockdown periods of the COVID-19 pandemic, like many others, he drew comfort and inspiration from the nature he was able to access around his urban home grounds of San Francisco. His curiosity peaked as he slowed down and spent quiet time observing. This experience sparked his formation of Observation Society, an artistic effort to inspire others to notice and appreciate the immense beauty of the natural world, beyond and within.
In October of 2023, Jordan reached out to Point Blue via Instagram asking if we were interested in collaborating. We said, YES!
Point Blue Conservation Science has made the conscious decision to lean in to partnerships with artists to amplify important conservation efforts and increase accessibility and engagement in ecosystem science. We believe that by intentionally merging art and science in our work through partnership we will see better, more impactful, and longer-lasting solutions to climate change, biodiversity loss, and other challenges. You can learn more here.
Point Blue San Francisco Bay Program Biologists, Julian Wood and Megan Elrod, along with Communications Manager and Art & Science Lead, Lishka Arata, worked with artist Jordan Ma over the past several months on this project. We are also grateful for review and help from USFWS Biologists Rachel Terts and WRA Biologist Katie Smith. Though the species are artistically rendered with a unique and compelling style, the team provided Jordan with guiding information to ensure accurate portrayal of the species.
The metal and enamel pins that Jordan creates are a mix of cartoon and representational in style and bring joy to those who view them. We encourage you to brazenly wear these pins, and when people inevitably compliment you on them, engage those folks in conversations about your love of the species, the marsh, and the nature that creates the San Francisco Bay. Encourage them to join the art-powered movement to support nature and purchase their own!