In the summer of 2018 I spent a week working in the Whiteley Foundation’s MacFarlane art studio at Friday Harbor Labs. I spent most of my time interacting with the octopuses being studied in David Gire’s lab and drawing them. I enjoyed meeting the scientists in residence and found the environment both intellectually and creatively rich. As an artist, I have a history of combining animal imagery with scientific research (both past and present) to make a statement and I feel that Friday Harbor Labs is the perfect setting to continue this work. I returned in 2019 to work on both the Mysticeti wood block and the Drifters installation. Though I planned a trip in 2020 also, I cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. I hope to return soon!