Exploring Baffin Bay with Baffin: An Artist's Journey

In July 2024, Canadian artist and environmentalist Meg O’Hara embarked on The Painter Line – a hiking and sailing expedition up the West Coast of Greenland – with Baffin as her official footwear and apparel sponsor.

Using the power of storytelling and art to highlight the importance of ocean conservation in the polar regions, Meg joined the Ocean Science Expedition as Artist-in-Residence.

Below she shares the story of The Painter Line.

Photo Credit: Keith Tuffley

This summer I was invited to be the Artist-in-Residence onboard a 75’ sailboat during the Ocean Science Expedition, a crew of 8 testing for microplastics along the Arctic Ocean. As an artist whose work is based on ocean conservation in the polar regions, with a love for cold places, I jumped at the opportunity! I sailed up the West Coast of Greenland, with a mission to document the breathtaking landscapes through my art while supporting vital research.

Baffin was my official footwear and apparel sponsor for the expedition, providing me with the essential gear to navigate the icy terrain and freezing temperatures. Their products not only kept me warm but also allowed me to perform my role effectively and comfortably.

Essential Gear for Arctic Exploration

POLAR PANTS
Baffin’s POLAR PANTS were an absolute lifesaver during the expedition. Made of down, they felt like I was wrapped in a cozy sleeping bag, which was appreciated during the cold nights on iceberg watch from midnight to 4 AM. The cold air and relentless wind were no match for these pants, providing unparalleled warmth and comfort.

GLOVE LINER and GUIDE GLOVE
Painting outdoors in the Arctic required dexterity and warmth. The GLOVER LINER was my go-to, offering the flexibility I needed for detailed work. When the temperatures dropped further, I reinforced them with the GUIDE GLOVE, which provided additional insulation and protection against the elements.

YELLOWKNIFE Boots
For footwear, the YELLOWKNIFE boots were perfect. These boots are not only super warm but also have waterproofing on the lower half. This made them perfect for hiking, exploring the shore, and wearing onboard during crossings when ocean spray was inevitable. Their durability and warmth kept my feet dry and comfortable throughout the journey.

CABIN Slippers
One of my favorite pieces of gear was the red CABIN slippers. Made of down and equipped with grips on the soles, they were incredibly versatile. I wore them on deck, on the zodiac, in the cabin, and even while climbing the mast. Their warmth and grip made them ideal for almost every situation on the ship.

MERINO NECK WARMER
The MERINO NECK WARMER was essential for keeping the sun and wind off my face. I wore it all the time, whether I was painting, hiking, or steering the ship.

Life on the Arctic Seas

Photo Credit: Isak Rockström

The polar regions are disproportionately affected by climate change, experiencing warming at a rate of 3 - 4 times faster than the global average. This has profound impacts on the ice and ecosystems. Another unique phenomenon in these regions is the polar day, where the sun never sets, providing 24 hours of daylight. Putting on sunscreen and wearing your sunglasses at all hours of the day was a wild experience! I went the entire expedition without seeing a star or the night sky. Instead, the sun would hover above the horizon, giving off a nice pink hue for a few hours a day.

We sailed on a 75' sailboat with a steel hull, which offered a unique living experience. The gentle rocking of the boat would lull us to sleep, while the sound of waves hitting the hull would echo through the ship, creating a soothing yet powerful ambiance.

If you’re heading somewhere cold like the Arctic, my advice is pack lots of layers, prepare for a variety of weather, and invest in high-quality items that can withstand the elements.

Thanks to Baffin

My expedition to Greenland was an unforgettable experience, made even better by the reliable and high-quality gear from Baffin. As a Canadian born and raised, I’ve been wearing Baffin’s since I was a kid. I’m thrilled to be a Brand Ambassador for Baffin and bringing them "home" to their namesake Baffin Bay to put them to the ultimate test, which they passed with flying colors. Their products ensured I stayed warm, dry, and comfortable, allowing me to focus on my art and the important research we were conducting. This journey not only enriched my artistic perspective but also deepened my understanding of the urgent need for climate action to protect these fragile polar environments.

Thank you, Baffin, for being an integral part of this incredible journey and for keeping me cozy in the coldest corners of the world!