Meg O’Hara is an artist and environmentalist, with her work based on ocean conservation in the polar regions. Meg has been the Artist-in-Residence aboard expeditions to both poles and was named the Featured Artist for Ocean Week Canada in 2023. 

In the summer of 2024, Meg took WINGS Flag #39 on a sailing expedition along the West Coast of Greenland as an Artist-in-Residence. This expedition, in collaboration with The Ocean Race, was a pivotal part of her ongoing commitment to ocean conservation in the polar regions, involved supporting scientific field research aimed at understanding the prevalence of microplastics in one of the most remote and pristine parts of our planet. Utilizing cutting-edge science equipment, Meg collected water samples along the Northwest Passage, contributing to groundbreaking research that highlights the critical environmental issues facing the Arctic.

The team onboard the Abel Tasman was an elite group of scientists, researchers, and conservationists. As they sailed from the southern tip of Greenland up to Disko Bay, Meg was actively involved in the scientific endeavors, including assisting in the collection and analysis of data. This hands-on experience not only deepened her understanding of the Arctic ecosystem but also informed and inspired her artistic practice.

Throughout her journey, Meg documented the stark and majestic beauty of the Arctic landscape through sketches, paintings, and photographs. Her artwork will serve as visual narratives that capture the essence of the expedition, the collaborative spirit of her team, and the urgent need for environmental stewardship in the polar regions. This project represents a unique fusion of art and science, aiming to engage and educate the public about the importance of preserving these vital and vulnerable ecosystems. 

Meg, reflected, “This expedition has been a thrilling experience, and I’m excited to share my journey with all of you going forward. I’m grateful for the opportunity to explore the traditional and beautiful homeland of the Inuit people.”