ARCHELON has always attracted a wide variety of talented individuals to its projects and one shining example of this is Katarina Bjorqvist. Katarina produced a series of 6 original postcard designs as a gift to ARCHELON and in support of our work.

A young artist dedicates her work to ARCHELON

ARCHELON has always attracted a wide variety of talented individuals to its projects and one shining example of this is Katerina Bjorqvist. Kat as she is known to her friends is from a small island called Replot which is a world heritage site just off the coast of Finland. Kat is a native Swedish speaker and has always been an animal lover. Finding herself feeling out of place at a new school she decided to seek a volunteer project and pursue her interest in wildlife further.

After reading the website Kat finally joined us in July of 2007 and since then has spent a total of 5 months on the Zakynthos project. Katʼs abilities as an artist were soon recognized and she was soon being asked to dedicate more of her time on the project doing things that involved her artistry. These talents did not go un-noticed by her fellow volunteers either, with Kat been asked on almost every birthday occasion to paint or design something for those lucky enough to be celebrating while Kat was there. Her wonderful gifts given to fellow volunteers range from portraits for t-shirts, cartoons and stunning watercolours (one of which is now pride of place in my house).

Why sea turtles?

“I didn't know what to expect of the turtles really, so I guess I had to get to know them first. Now that I have - turtles are in short ancient survivors, relics that symbolize peace and harmony, and I like how lovable, strong, graceful and peaceful they are...oh they're funny and cute too. They inspire me to keep doing what I love to do and do what comes naturally (be myself), to inspire others and to share knowledge about our fragile seas. Also just to take it easy, not to waste time and enjoy life”.

What were your favourite duties?

I think most of us volunteers agree (that volunteered on Ζante anyway)...my favorite duties were night survey and morning survey and everything that is involved with it, excavations are really interesting...all that, just to be hands on and up close.

Which was your favourite beach?

Sekania west to be really picky, it's almost...no it is a magical place, it's the beginning and the end of the world - AMAZING. it's my 'happy place'.

Whatʼs next for you?

“I recently graduated from university with a degree in fine arts. At the moment I'm taking time off studying, no job but taking the time to practice my art. Future is uncertain apart from travelling to South Africa in February to volunteer for the great white shark project, sharks have thee worst reputation and I figured they'd like some extra help;)”

Will you be coming back to ARCHELON in the future?

Yes! it was hard not going back this summer, Archelon was my 'first' so it has a special place in my heart and I can't imagine not going back. I haven't been to the rescue centre and that's a must.

A message to ARCHELON supporters?

“To all you Archelon supporters, a huge thank you! One can't praise you enough, much love to you for your care and devotion for this project and its cause - just keep swimming it's seriously worth it!”

Katarina produced a series of 6 original postcard designs as a gift to ARCHELON and in support of our work. We hope very much to have her return to us in the future. You can find out more about Katarinaʼs artwork at... http://empyreeart.blogspot.com/
Katarina Björkqvist [kattisbj86@hotmail.com]