Speakers
Journeys in Search of the Whale by Noel Ashton
Rethinking our Place in a Changing World
When Archbishop Desmond Tutu launched Noel Ashton’s acclaimed Sacred Ocean campaign in the Two Oceans Aquarium in November 2008, he set in motion a chain of events that have culminated in this unique and thought-provoking presentation and exhibition.
At its core, Journeys in Search of the Whale is one man’s quest to try to understand our complex relationship with the world around us. It began with a life-long search for the whale, but the brutality of whaling, in contrast to the public’s emotional response to a tragic whale stranding event sends him into the mountains of the Cederberg in search for answers from an ancient people, the San. This becomes a retreat where Noel reflects on what it means to be human in these times of change. His insights, discoveries and profound narratives, combined with original paintings, sculptures and photographs make this a relevant and important new approach to understanding and transforming the pressing social and environmental issues facing the world at this pivotal point along the human journey.
Journeys in Search of the Whale is a 55-minute audio-visual presentation that takes you along Noel’s journey and will offer insights and new perspectives gained through a lifetime of seeking answers to many of these fundamental questions.
Journeys is presented by respected whale specialist Noel Ashton, who has spent over 20 years studying, painting, sculpting and writing about the world’s whales and dolphins. He has been actively involved in a wide range of environmental initiatives through the Oceans of Africa programme, which he runs with his wife Belinda. These include the Windows on the Ocean exhibition launched at the Two Oceans Aquarium, the IFAW Whale Walk, the acclaimed Whale Show and more recently, the Sacred Ocean sculpture and campaign, which are positioned in the foyer of the Two Oceans Aquarium.
The initiative is presented in partnership with the Two Oceans Aquarium, Cape Town.
Journeys in Search of the Whale is a highly relevant, thought-provoking presentation which will inspire audiences and encourage them to reflect on their place in the world.
Magnificent, emotive images together with Noel’s passionate story-telling ability make Journeys a powerful and engaging presentation which will appeal to a wide variety of audiences.