2024 Wetland Biodiversity Photography Exhibition Now Open!
2024 Wetland Biodiversity Photography Exhibition Now Open!
23
Oct
23/10/2024
The exhibition, running until October 30, 2024, shines a spotlight on the rich biodiversity of Macao’s wetlands through a stunning collection of photographs.
The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) Macao launched the “Macao’s Wetland Treasures: 2024 Biodiversity Photography Exhibition” on October 15, 2024, at the Kent Wong Exhibition Gallery of its Ilha Verde campus. The exhibition, running until October 30, 2024, shines a spotlight on the rich biodiversity of Macao’s wetlands through a stunning collection of photographs.
The opening ceremony saw a high turnout from a diverse group of attendees, including USJ faculty, Sands China representatives, students, environmentalists, photographers who participated in the competition, and members of the public. Local environmental groups, conservation enthusiasts, and people in the environmental and art communities were also present, showcasing the widespread interest in the exhibition.
Hosted by the Institute of Science and Environment (ISE) in collaboration with the Department of Media, Art, and Technology of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities (FAH), the event welcomed special guests, including USJ Vice-Rector for Internationalisation and Academic Affairs Prof. Álvaro Barbosa, USJ Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation Prof. Alexandre Lobo, Dean of ISE Prof. David Gonçalves, Dean of FAH Prof. Carlos Sena Caires, Associate Director of Sustainability from Sands China Ms Stephanie Zao, Wildlife and Landscape Photographer in Macao and judge of the Wetland Photography Competition Mr Joao Monteiro, Wetland Ecology Expert Dr. Lei Kam Peng, Supervisor of the Macao Maritime Museum Ms Vong Kit Han, and Director of the Macao Maritime Museum Mr. Sit Kai Sin Roy.
The event was opened with a warm welcome from the emcee, followed by a speech delivered by Prof. David Goncalves, Dean of ISE. In his address, Prof. Goncalves emphasized how important Macao’s wetlands are in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity. He highlighted their critical role in sustaining a wide variety of plant and animal species. Furthermore, Prof. Goncalves stressed the power of art, particularly photography, as a medium to inspire conservation efforts. By connecting people emotionally to nature, art can foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the need to protect these fragile ecosystems. He also emphasized the role of USJ in raising environmental awareness, explaining how initiatives like this exhibition as a reflection of the university’s commitment to sustainability.
Following Prof. Gonçalves’ speech, Prof. Karen Tagulao, Principal Investigator of the Wetland Biodiversity Project at ISE, announced the Wetland Biodiversity Photography Competition winners. Over 500 entries were submitted, showcasing Macao’s diverse wetland ecosystems. The top 100 photos were selected for display in the exhibition, while around 400 additional submissions were available digitally. Prof. Tagulao praised the high quality of the submissions and congratulated the winners, acknowledging their contribution to raising awareness through their photography.
A Call for Conservation
A key highlight of the exhibition is its multi-sensory installation, which uses natural soundscapes and lighting to immerse visitors in the atmosphere of Macao’s wetlands. This innovative approach creates a deeper connection to nature, encouraging visitors to engage in the exhibition more emotionally. This part of the installation was made possible by Prof. Filipa Martins and Prof. Joao Brochado of the Department of Media, Art, and Technology of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities.
The exhibition seeks to raise public awareness of wetlands’ vital role in sustaining biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. It also emphasizes the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these habitats for future generations. The event highlights the Drop by Drop Project, a sustainability initiative supported by the WASH Foundation and Las Vegas Sands, focusing on water stewardship and environmental sustainability.
Through stunning photography, immersive experiences, and educational components, “Macao’s Wetland Treasures” aims to inspire a collective effort to preserve Macao’s wetlands and foster a deeper connection to the natural environment. The exhibition is open to the public until October 30, 2024, and invites visitors of all ages to explore Macao’s wetlands and better understand their ecological significance.
