About this project
The last bit of research I need to complete my biography of Maria Sybilla Merian resides in and around Paramaribo, Surinam, in South America. She spent two years there from 1699 to 1701. Her research on the life cycle of caterpillars established her place as a founder of entomology, further acknowledging her authority on metamorphosis.
Understanding the locations of the story is essential. Maria Sybilla was born in Frankfurt, Germany; she lived and worked there and in Nürnberg for a number of years. I have already researched in both cities and know what a difference actually being on location makes. At present I know nothing about the rainforest, and cannot adequately describe its feel, colors, sounds, smells, etc.
I plan to research in the libraries and museums of Paramaribo to learn from the old colonial documents and maps. I hope to also learn about the clothing the colonists wore and how they lived. Trips to visit the remains of old plantations, and into the rainforest are equally important.
Since the official language of Surinam is Dutch, I will need a translator. I have already made those arrangements; she will travel with me because I have learned that you never know when or where you will come across valuable or interesting information. I also want to take a videographer along to make a short documentary. Funding will go towards travel, lodging, food, guided tours, and other fees.
There is a short window of opportunity in which to do this because of the two rainy seasons in Surinam. I plan to travel there the latter part of March 2011-- just before the long rainy season begins!
You may find these two websites of interest:
chasingmaria.nancy-dailey.com, and chasingcaterpillars.com
FAQ
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Funding Unsuccessful
This project reached the deadline without achieving its funding goal on February 10, 2011.
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Postcard from Surinam and a small button showing a detail of Maria Sybilla Merian's artwork.
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Your choice of one of the following 8x10 signed artist prints: Butterflies are Witches print or Making Mice Recipe print.
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Both artist prints and a CD of photographs of Surinam taken during my trip.
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A Skype Video Conference with your school or community group about Maria Sybilla Merian, Surinam, and/or writing.
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An in-person presentation to your school or community group within 100 miles of Springfield, MO; St. Louis, or Memphis, TN.
Project By
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As a teacher I combined my interests with extensive research to create fun, educational student projects. Whether researching and procuring the ingredients to make paint from the Renaissance or chaperoning a group of Young Astronauts to a conference in Japan, I have enjoyed sharing the fascinating journeys through history and world culture.
