Dana Montlack

February 5, 2026

Project Archive: Georgia Sea Grant & The "Intertidal" Series

Project Archive: Georgia Sea Grant & The "Intertidal" Series

In 2022, I was honored to be selected for the Artists, Writers, and Scholars (AWS) Program, an initiative designed to bridge the gap between scientific research and artistic expression. Supported by the UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, this project allowed me to explore the impacts of a changing climate on the Georgia coast through the lens of layered photography.

Scientific Collaboration

For this project, I partnered with Joel Kostka, Professor and Associate Chair of Research in the School of Biological Sciences at Georgia Tech. Dr. Kostka’s research focuses on microbial processes in salt marshes—critical ecosystems that serve as buffers for our coastlines.

This interdisciplinary collaboration provided access to raw scientific data collected directly from research sites along the coast. My goal was to translate this hard data into visual artworks that underscores the vulnerability and vitality of these environments.

Coastal Fragility

The primary outcome of this grant was the development of the "Intertidal" sub-series, which forms a significant part of my larger body of work, Coastal Fragility.

These works weave together imagery of flora and fauna, Dr. Kostka's scientific data and charts, historical maps of Sapelo Island, and imagery relating to indigenous people, specifically the ancient shell rings fround on the island.

By superimposing these elements, the work compresses time, stacking the ancient geological and human history of Sapelo Island against the urgent, real-time data of climate change.

Exhibitions

The work resulting from this partnership has been shared with the public in multiple venues, fostering dialogue about coastal conservation.

  • Waves of Wonder (2024): A major exhibition at the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum in Savannah, GA (June 5 – Sept 1, 2024). The show highlighted the AWS program's output, inviting viewers to "dive deep into the soul-stirring artworks... from the delicate dance of a sea turtle to the resounding echoes of maritime history."
  • 2022-2023 AWS Exhibition: The initial showcase of the project’s findings and artistic output, presenting the Coastal Fragility series at the Illges Gallery.

Press & Further Reading

For more context on the grant and the exhibition, please visit the following press items: