Portrayals of outdoor environments and experiences Concept three Portrayals of outdoor environments and experiences

Introduction We are exposed in life to many different influences that contribute to shaping our relationships with the outdoor environment. A portrayal refers to the way that outdoor environments and experiences are represented. Specific environments are portrayed in certain ways, depending on the message that a person or group is trying to get across. http://kwrscoes.weebly.com/114-media-portrayals-of- nature.html

Where do we see portrayals? Portrayals are found in many places, these mediums include: Media (magazines, newspapers, television, internet Music Art Advertising Examples: Textbook Page 204

Views of outdoor environments Commodity: Nature is subordinate to us. Something separate and noble: Nature is seen as an escape from the decay of civilization. Philosophical Principle: This provides a framework for action, gives terms such as ‘natural rights’. A Religion: Commonly indigenous ‘earth/mother’

Common portrayals Portrayals are ‘second hand’ pieces of information. As an adversary As a resource As a cathedral As a gymnasium As a museum

As an adversary The outdoor environments portrayed as working against us, requiring us to overcome a challenge that has been set by the environment. E.g. dangerous beaches, drought affected areas, Mt Everest. Naturalists, risk takers, farmers

As a resource Reflects the attitude that it should be used to support our needs. This includes our survival needs such as materials and food. This can also be based around human’s desires for improvements and enhancements in technology. E.g. Land for grazing, timber harvesting, water for irrigation. Commercial companies, scientists

As a cathedral Regards the outdoor environment to be seen in a spiritual manner. Often highlighting how special outdoor environments are. The emphasis is on how important environments are to our existence, health and wellbeing. Artists, nature lovers

As a museum When outdoor environments are protrayed as a place of history that can help us understand human relationships. They are a ‘storehouse’ of items from our history. Portrayals can be positive and educational, or they can be formed around the view that we may lose our ‘museum’ if our destructive lifestyle continues. Land holders, historians

As a gymnasium The environment is portrayed as a place for people to participate in recreational activities. It can provide challenges or low- key ‘passive’ experiences. E.g. hiking, kayaking, skiing, bird watching. Surfers, hikers etc

Influence on Relationships

example TV shows such as ‘Bondi Rescue’ portray the coastal environment as an adversary. Highlighting potential disasters, challenges and the danger that is the beach. Perceptions: this show might influence humans to perceive the beaches at Phillip Island as dangerous and threatening. OR as a challenge for them to overcome. Interactions: people with this perception may not choose to interact at the beach due to this. OR they go surfing to take on the challenge. Positive Impact: Surfers gain a connection and appreciation for the surf and its challenges, they strive to help protect the environment. Negative Impact: Large amounts of people go surfing, leading to dune erosion on walkways etc. If viewed as dangerous and no interaction is had, someone may have no connection or appreciation of coastal environments.