Trexler Bison 

Julie Bell’s "Trexler Bison," made in 2012, portrays a single bison standing in an open, grassy field. It's an interesting image, considering the bison's historical significance and near extinction in North America. During westward expansion, the bison population dwindled drastically due to hunting and habitat loss. By the late 19th century, they faced extinction. Conservation efforts brought them back from the brink, which is an implicit narrative in a contemporary image. This painting can be seen as a statement about the relationship between humans and the natural world. It’s a reminder of our capacity to decimate entire species, but also of our ability to reverse that destruction through dedicated conservation efforts. Art historians can learn more about the topic by exploring the history of conservation and ecological art. It provides context for understanding how artists reflect humanity’s impact on the environment.