Just as a graph or figure simplifies a complex concept, student Leah Henseler’s intent with her most recent sculpture is to enhance research and the communication of climate change. Her first venture on a much longer journey into sculpture that is informed by data, “Figure 1.0” features wooden shapes derived from coral bleaching records from the Great Barrier Reef. This iconic Australian location, celebrated for its unparalleled biodiversity and stunning beauty, is home to the most extensive collection of coral reefs on the planet.
Drawn to the transformation of natural materials and how they can be molded into something entirely new, Leah’s goal with data-driven sculpture is to visualize information in a way that is both unexpected and more approachable to a broader audience. “I want these works to get people interested in climate change specifically, and to inspire questions and spark conversations,” says Leah.
“With the shapes in ‘Figure 1.0,’ I hope viewers initially see something beautiful and non-specific, illustrating how easily coral bleaching can be overlooked due to its underwater occurrence. I’m inspired by abstract forms and minimalist design, and I enjoy transforming complex data into tangible objects that reflect my sculptural style.”
Upon closer examination of the work, viewers begin to notice what lies “under the surface,” with the number of wood layers in each bubble representing the percentage of coral bleaching in a specific year, from 1998 to 2020. The length of each bubble also signifies this percentage, and collectively, the bubbles form a timeline of major bleaching events in recent history.
A native of Upstate New York, Leah is currently a junior studying marine affairs and art at the University of Miami. Her lifelong passion for building and creating has seen her work evolve from drawings to large-scale clay and wood sculptures. According to her, “I sculpt because I am simply excited about learning. Using my hands has always been a way to explore—above or below the waterline.”
Up next for Leah is a journey to the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador, where she hopes to draw inspiration for her future creative endeavors. She will be immersing herself in a field-based study semester in the scenic locale of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island as part of the UGalapagos Marine Science program. In collaboration with the non-profit organization, Intercultural Outreach Initiative, she will join a select group of undergraduate students who will be residing with local families on the island, where they will learn and contribute to community service projects.
Visit the Rosenstiel School Library on Virginia Key to experience “Figure 1.0” in person. On the Gables campus, Leah also has three works on display at the Ashe Building as part of the “Undergraduate Student Art Exhibition” organized by the Department of Art and Art History.
