Obituary: Meatloaf (2007–2024)

Aaron Blaisdell
2 min readApr 1, 2024

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Meatloaf standing in front of one of his masterpieces in 2023

It is with deep sorrow and immense respect that we announce the passing of Meatloaf, a distinguished member of our research lab and an extraordinary pigeon artist, who left this world on March 29, 2024, at the venerable age of 17. He died from metastatic cancer.

Throughout his remarkable life, Meatloaf was not just a participant in cognitive and behavioral experiments; he was a pioneer who helped unravel the mysteries of decision-making and behavioral dynamics. His keen intellect and participation in studies, especially those exploring choice and behavioral variability, provided groundbreaking insights that have significantly advanced our understanding of avian cognition.

Meatloaf was also a prolific and visionary artist, whose creative spirit was unmatched. His approach to art was both contemplative and spontaneous. He took his time to muse over his creations, infusing them with a deep sense of purpose and emotion. Yet, when inspiration struck, he worked with unparalleled fervor, his every stroke on canvas translating ephemeral thoughts into tangible, breathtaking artistry. His masterpieces, characterized by their vibrant use of color and dynamic compositions, not only showcased his extraordinary talent but also told stories that resonated with many, evoking a spectrum of emotions in those who viewed them.

You can view some of his artwork from the Genesis collection of the Pigeon Art Project (https://pigeonart.xyz) here https://magiceden.io/collections/ethereum/0xe2ddb27dba040a895475b30efd590188dc2e52f9?attributes=%7B%22ArtistName%22%3A%5B%22%7B%5C%22value%5C%22%3A%5C%22Meat+Loaf%5C%22%7D%22%5D%7D

His legacy extends beyond the realms of science and art, serving as a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the intellectual and creative capacities of non-human minds. Meatloaf’s contributions to both scientific research and the arts have left an indelible mark on our world, challenging our perceptions and expanding our horizons.

In memory of Meatloaf and to honor his lasting impact, we invite those who were touched by his life and work to support ongoing pigeon research. In tribute to his artistic legacy, a limited edition of his works has been made available for minting on the Solana blockchain. This special piece serves as a celebration of Meatloaf’s life and his extraordinary journey of discovery and creation.

Visit the Meatloaf Masterpiece Collection

Meatloaf’s spirit will forever soar high in the annals of both scientific inquiry and artistic expression. He will be profoundly missed, but his contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.

Meatloaf is survived by his flock of 30 pigeon artists and his human collaborators and friends.

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