2026 SPE Annual Conference: Catalyst for Exchange
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print this pageTwo Century Plants, Intertwined
Alexis Hagestad
Saturday, March 21 - 10:30AM to 11:00AM
Atlanta 1
This presentation explores the audiovisual work "Pest Control: 1300 Pixels," which examines the intricate relationship between humans and non-human species, particularly bats. The video features 1,300 digital pixels that utilize bat echolocation as a form of multispecies collaboration, where bat sounds manipulate photographic elements of the image. Bats perceive their surroundings through echolocation, gathering extensive data while capturing only fragments of reality.
Since 2006, white-nose syndrome has decimated bat populations in the U.S., leading to increased pesticide use as farmers have lost their natural pest controllers. A study in "Science" highlighted a concerning correlation between rising pesticide applications and nearly an 8% increase in infant mortality, equating to over 1,300 additional child deaths. This underscores a critical link between bat species decline and human health, showcasing bats' ecological importance.
The loss of biodiversity threatens ecosystems, making our world more susceptible to diseases and resource collapse. "Pest Control: 1300 Pixels" challenges viewers to consider animals' perspectives and how understanding their roles can help maintain ecological balance. The presentation will also explore the significance of multispecies communication, contrasting Donna Haraway's Chthulucene with the Anthropocene, emphasizing our relationships with other species in addressing environmental issues.
This session will connect the delicate intertwining of two century plants in the Sonoran Desert with bat echolocation, inviting reflection on the interconnected web of life among bats, plants, and humans. By listening to diverse narratives, we can foster a more sustainable future and reimagine our roles within the ecosystem and communities. The presenter is currently an MFA candidate at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona.
This research is supported by the Carson Scholars Program at the Arizona Institute for Resilience.
speaker
Alexis Hagestad
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