Drawn to Extinction - Depicting the Thylacine

Explore the fascinating history and extinction of the thylacine, or Tasmanian tiger, in this 56-minute talk by Jack Ashby, Assistant Director of the University Museum of Zoology, Cambridge. Delve into the complex relationship between colonial ideals and the depiction of Australian mammals, focusing on one of the earliest European illustrations of the thylacine by John Lewin. Examine how artists, scientists, and museums shaped Western perceptions of these extinct marsupial carnivores, and uncover the false accusations that led to their deliberate eradication. Gain insights into the thylacine's iconic status as a symbol of extinction and Tasmania, while considering the broader implications of colonial legacies on our understanding of nature. Learn about Ashby's work on Australian mammals and his exploration of biases in natural history presentations, drawing from his books and experience as an Art Fund Headley Fellow and trustee of the Natural Sciences Collections Association.