A Possible Ambivalence in Plato’s Approach to Mimesis and Poetry

Our communication examines the depiction of aquatic life in art and its significance for understanding human interactions with marine ecosystems over time. Historically, artistic representations have portrayed the ocean as an inexhaustible resource, reflecting societal attitudes towards the environment.The human connection with aquatic environments is ancient, as evidenced by Neanderthal remains and early depictions of marine species. Greek and Roman arts, with rich mythologies and detailed representations, demonstrate early engagement with marine life. Later, the Renaissance and 17th-century still-life paintings in the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy saw a flourishing of detailed depictions of marine creatures. This shift in artistic focus continued into contemporary art, where representations are less about realism and more about exploring human perceptions and imaginations of the ocean. Such artworks provide insights into how modern societies grapple with environmental degradation and their desire to reconnect with nature.Our works highlights the growing relevance of environmental history in biodiversity conservation. By examining artworks from different historical periods, we collected valuable data about past ecosystems. For example, depictions of freshwater fish in 17th-century paintings align with observed declines in specific species like sturgeon and salmon. This correlation between artists' regional backgrounds and the species they depicted underscores the reliability of art as a historical record.We also argue that the sensory and emotional impact of art can evoke strong responses in viewers, connecting them to memories and experiences of nature. This dimension is crucial in fostering respectful relationships with the natural world, yet it is often overlooked in conservation discourse. Initiatives like the collaborative book Merveilles aquatiques, l’art de représenter le vivant aim to bridge art and science, promoting new connections between society and the marine environment.Ultimately, our communication asserts that art plays a crucial role in raising environmental awareness and shaping human perceptions of marine life. It calls for interdisciplinary collaboration between scientists, artists, and researchers to explore the intersection of aesthetics, history, and ecology in fostering sustainable relationships with the ocean.

The place of nature in Godard's late films