Living Land

Lauren Gronek

Area: Graphic Design

Thesis Statement

Humans tend to seek grand displays of magnificence; however, a lesson can be learned from looking deeply into something exuding a quiet beauty. In 2019, the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore was re-established as a national park. The Indiana Dunes’ midwestern setting, proximity to factories, and small size cause some to disregard its validity as an important natural area. Despite being located forty miles from Chicago and situated among industrial areas of northern Indiana, the park is in the top seven most ecologically diverse places in the country. The Dunes’ incredible geography, ecosystems, animals, and plants deserve full recognition as one of our country’s great natural wonders. This park, which houses living dunes, globally rare ecosystems, hundreds of endangered species, and groundbreaking natural laboratories, tells a story of ancient events and industrial evolution, shining in contrast to its urban surroundings as a beacon of life and resilience. Inspired by naturalist sketches and historical national park design, "Living Land" illuminates the details of the Indiana Dunes National Park so visitors and locals may uncover and connect with its unique history and ecology.