CONNECTION

A moment where two worlds collide. Scientists say that we came from the ocean, that all life started there. And in this moment we were reminded of this truth. That pieces of our origin are still recognizing each other in these moments no matter how far apart they have wandered between then and now. I will never forget this day. It is not uncommon for baby or even juvenile humpback whales to mirror humans in a playful manner while interacting. But for a fully mature whale, one of the largest we have ever seen, to seek out this type of interaction and mirror movements in a playful and curious manner was something we had never experienced (and still have not again 6 years later). Opening our arms wide, she turned to face us and followed suit. As if she was inviting us into this secret dance, as if she knew all the secrets the universe whispers to us on the surface but that we forget to listen to. A connection reminding us of just how incredibly small we are. A mirror reminding us of our connection to every piece of this universe. And for a moment, that connection shaped our existence. 'CONNECTION' | March 2022 | Edition 1/1 NFT Kori Burkhardt is an underwater photographer, expedition leader, & shark biologist based in French Polynesia. Capturing the ocean's wildlife by completely immersing with them, her goal is to show the ocean in a beautiful, yet still powerful, perspective. As co-founder of conservation and research organization Mao Mana Foundation, her mission commits to protecting sharks and all marine wildlife.