Coffee & Geography 6x07 Pluto Liu (Aotearoa / New Zealand) Arts and science, Antarctica, capitalism

In this lively and thoughtful episode, Kit Marie is joined by Pluto Liu, a marine scientist, artist, self‑described nomad, and PhD researcher studying kelp and Antarctic ecosystems from their home in Aotearoa (colonially “New Zealand”). The conversation ranges across identity, geography, creativity, capitalism, and the slippery boundaries between disciplines. Pluto reflects on growing up in China, moving through Hong Kong and Thailand, and eventually settling in Aotearoa, describing how each place has shaped their sense of self. They speak about linguistic belonging, their deep affinity with Latin America after spending time in Chile, and how identity becomes a patchwork: “a mixture of all different places I’ve been to.” Together, Kit Marie and Pluto discuss the limitations of Western scientific labels, the unnecessary separation of arts and sciences, and the importance of Indigenous and relational understandings of nature. Pluto shares insights into Antarctic policy, the tourism debate, and the realities of capitalism’s encroachment into polar seas. There are stories too — of tattoo artistry, surfing, learning to swim, nearly falling asleep during tattoos, and getting a diving certificate before being able to swim properly! Weblinks for Listeners: 🔗 Pluto's BlueSky account: https://bsky.app/profile/plutoxliu.bsky.social 🔗 Trade Aid Aotearoa: https://www.tradeaid.org.nz/ 🔗 Antarctic Treaty Secretariat: https://www.ats.aq/ 🔗 Baldwin Street – Dunedin: https://www.dunedinnz.com/insiders/baldwin-street2 Theme music: "Spark of Inspiration" by Silvermansound.com