2026 Siskiyou Crest Artist in Residence: Cody Markelz
After receiving a PHD in plant biology, Cody Markelz participated in the academic science and research world, publishing scientific papers for other scientists at UC Davis and Berkeley, receiving accolades and grants along the way. In many ways, Cody was very successful, but ultimately he felt that work didn’t matter because so few people had access to it.
Cody says, “I realized the most important thing I could be doing is communicating science to people. It became my life’s work.”
In 2019 Cody decided to start making art everyday. Gradually he transitioned to making art full time. He spends his time making zines, art and is working on a graphic novel. His work is aimed at adults – or anyone who is curious about science – designed to spark curiosity and creativity around science and the natural world.
Cody spent 5 days at Acorn Woman Lookout in the Rogue River Siskiyou National Forest in May 2026, making observations, journal entries and drawings. He’s compiled them into a zine!