Interview Safi Graauw

Can you tell me more about your background as an earth scientist?

From a young age, I have always found nature fascinating. I was born in Suriname, a country where nature is central to daily life. When I moved to the Netherlands, that changed quite a bit. I went from a country where buildings were often no taller than 3 stories, to a country with gray weather, highways, and 12-story apartment buildings. That had quite an impact on me. Fortunately, I found solace in television. I enjoyed watching National Geographic and Discovery. But many of those programs often ended with a bleak picture. "Things are going well for the elephants, but: 'The Human'." At the age of 8, I decided I wanted to do something about it. That's where my long journey began, eventually leading me to complete a Research Master's in Earth Sciences. And now, I make films, among other things, about nature.

What fascinates you about water?

Water is the essence of all life on Earth. We ourselves consist mostly of water. The majority of organisms we know on Earth use water or are made up of water. Water has incredibly interesting properties.

Can you name a place where water has had the most impact on you?

I once sat on a rock in Southeast Kenya overlooking a lake. Elephants, giraffes, hippos, and buffaloes came in and out of the lake. Water lilies and all kinds of other plants grew in the lake. Each organism used the water in its own way. I cherished that moment and stored it forever. It was proof to me that water is the basis for much of the life we get to witness on Earth. At that moment, I felt the power of water.

Do you have any tips for being mindful about water usage?

There are hundreds of ways to save water, but what's most important is your mindset. We have important political goals for 2030 and 2050, especially regarding water. I think it's crucial for all of us to realize that this is within our own control. Create an awareness, a mindset that considers our immediate environment, and you'll naturally find the right measures that work for you.

What else can people do (at home)?

Think about how you use water, use a water-saving showerhead. Make sure the dishwasher is full when you turn it on. Don't shower for too long. And don't brush your teeth in the shower but rather, for example, after you finish. These are just a few examples.

You use many bright colours in this series and work in general. What is your relationship with colour?

I work with colours as a sense of emotion that we see, and I familiarize myself with exciting and vividly pleasing colours. Nature always adds some aesthetics. I continually try to understand color theory rather than play around with them.

If people are interested in your work, where can they find you?
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They can contact me through my Instagram: @prince.cartiee or my website: princecartiee.com