Data at the intersection of art and science: A biodiversity inventory of terrestrial plants in the Arizona Upland subdivision

Humans are sensory data collectors. Historically, people translated data from their sentient body’s experience with the natural world to visual representations: graphics recorded on cave walls, cliff overhangs and rocks slick with desert varnish. In the 21^st century, the visual arts as a translator of ecological knowledge is foundational to art-based research methods (ABR). ABR is gaining new appreciation in ecological research in the work towards conserving biological diversity across species and landscapes. Can meaning of ecological systems be more deeply conceptualized when engaging in art-based research methods alongside Western science methods? See for yourself.