Maggie Grady
Artist Statement
“Under my Wing” represents the connection I have to the wildlife I study; it shows that science is by no means an apathetic field, but instead breeds understanding and adoration for the world around us. I took this photo when researching the parenting behaviors of Trumpeter Swans, a species that was once near-extinction and is still scarce in my home state of Virginia. As I observed the swans with their cygnets, I sought to compare their familial dynamic with human relationships, subconsciously finding common ground. I found that both parents cared for the cygnets with equal diligence, but that some cygnets seemed to have a parental preference, spending more time on average with either their father or mother. The cygnet siblings also seemed to be closely bonded, often play-fighting by grabbing each other’s beaks. The familiarity of these relationships enamored me, and when I presented my findings, I realized the importance of connecting people with wildlife. Environmental connection garners support for conservation and often impassions the next generation of scientists. Consequently, if conservationists before me were not so dedicated to saving the Trumpeter Swan, I may not have been so inspired to continue their work promoting healthy human-environment systems.
This experience helped to shape my identity as a queer naturalist and artist. I connected with and unofficially mentored a younger queer researcher, which helped us both develop confidence in our place in science. Moreover, I learned that field research and photography have much in common—they both require patience, empathy, and creativity. I try to embody these traits in all areas of life, although I typically am not the most patient person. Nonetheless, the success of this photo is the result of me sitting beside a pond for hours and capturing hundreds of less striking images. I found that I was so engaged in my data collection, camerawork, and connection to the environment, that boredom never even crossed my mind. This photograph therefore represents the turning point in my decision to pursue environmental conservation.
About the Artist
I’m Maggie Grady, a Virginia native specializing in wildlife and portrait photography. Like most Rubenstein students, nature has long kindled my curiosity, so I’ve become attentive to small details that reveal secrets of the flora and fauna around me. I love to take photos that magnify these details and share beauty that others may not have access to. While I most often use a digital camera—I can often be found in Centennial Woods attempting to track down birds with my oversized telephoto lens—I also love the more personal process of developing film and hope to continue studying it at the college level.