Soon, the Lifelines site will allow you to create an account to access a wide range of tools, data resources, and collaborate with other community members. Enter your email below and we will let you know when the Lifelines portals launch!
The New Orleans Mural, “Rings of Ecology: Louisiana Explored” by SaxonLynn Arts showcases the abundance of Louisiana’s natural resources and how satellite technology can be used to monitor, manage, and preserve them to sustain the people of Louisiana and their livelihoods.
This work has been made possible by funding provided by NASA Lifelines, New Orleans Downtown Development District, and Tulane University. The project aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and leaders, contributing to a more resilient Louisiana and enriching the community through public art. The collaborative effort between these organizations demonstrates the importance of partnerships in addressing environmental and public health challenges/
“Rings of Ecology” showcases Louisiana at the heart of four distinct zones. The rings ascend from sea level to space, illustrating the coastal, lowland, and upland environments of Louisiana. Each ring highlights the unique landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and the essential industries and resources that sustain the people of Louisiana. The outermost space ring, although not an ecological zone itself, represents the critical role that satellites play in collecting data that enables us to better understand, manage, and benefit from the three eco-regions.
At the center, the outline of Louisiana is adorned with Tulane University’s emblem, symbolizing the role of education and research in advancing the uptake of satellite technology and data-driven tools. Tulane is inspiring the next generation of scientists and leaders to tackle environmental and public health challenges using data-driven tools, making the state of Louisiana more resilient.
Moving outwards from the center, we encounter the coastal and lowland rings depicted with rivers, marshes, and swamps, each zone with distinct wildlife and related industry. In the center of the mural, parts of the coastal and lowland environments on the state are highlighted in blue. This is a satellite data visualization of nearly 2,000 sq mi of coastal and lowland environment that has been impacted by coastal erosion and rising sea levels. Satellite data is crucial for monitoring and addressing these changes, guiding informed decisions, innovative solutions, and resilient policies for the future of Louisiana’s lowlands and coastline.
The third ring represents the uplands—forested areas, thickets, and salt dome forests. Covering nearly half of Louisiana, these forests provide significant economic, social, and environmental benefits. Satellites help us monitor forest health, enhance sustainable management practices, and serve as early warning systems for pests, fires, and illegal logging.
Water is a connecting thread throughout the mural. From the abundant annual rainfall nourishing the uplands, to the Mississippi River, Lake Pontchartrain, and the Gulf of Mexico, water is the lifeblood of Louisiana and New Orleans, essential for food, water, and industry. Yet, this lifeline can also wield destructive power through storms, erosion, and flooding. Satellite data equips us to better plan for and withstand these natural forces, safeguarding our communities and future.
About Lifelines Murals
The Lifelines Mural Contest is a six-year global art initiative that engages local artists and communities to create murals that shed light on the ways satellite data and tools are helping communities become more resilient.
Meet the Artists
Lee and Sheri (SaxonLynn Arts) began their artistic collaboration in 2011, united by a passion for the ocean and nature. Their artwork, known for its bold colors and flexible style, completes any corporate or personal space. Their pieces have garnered attention, having been signed by celebrities and auctioned for a variety of charities and causes. As their reputation has grown, so has the scope of their brand’s style and product. They have showcased and sold their fine art at prestigious art festivals and galleries and have left their mark with murals on an international scale, all managed from their New Orleans studio.
