Under the Sea: A Journey of Art, Activism, and Ocean Conservation
It was 4 a.m. on June 1st, 2021, and I was dressed with coffee in hand, ready to experience the virtual UN Ocean Decade Conference. I had decided to sign up for the event on a whim. I wasn't sure if this event was for me, or if I was intruding in a conference meant for serious scientists and policymakers. But since it was online this year, I figured I might as well just go for it.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the participants were welcoming and excited to have an artist interested in what they had to say. What really motivated me was one of the Decade’s challenges: creating an inspiring and engaging ocean where society understands and values its importance. The UN’s call for the arts to join science in crafting compelling stories about our ocean thrilled me.
That was my invitation to reach out! To learn and collaborate with the ocean conservation industry. I didn't think twice—I started consuming everything I could get my hands on. I read books, watched documentaries, listened to podcasts, and even emailed scientists who responded!
I became obsessed with the deep sea and was awestruck when I learned about bioluminescence and the creatures that inhabit the depths. At the same time, I was baffled, shocked, and angered by deep-sea mining and the corporations seeking to profit from such a delicate ecosystem. I felt a strong urge to do something. I knew I could visually contribute with my art, but I felt lost. Fortunately, I stumbled upon The Oxygen Project Co-Op program.
The TOP Co-Op program fosters a community of like-minded individuals interested in the education, conservation, and protection of our environment. It provides workshops, networking events, and think tank sessions to encourage and develop our personal activism journeys. Thanks to their mentorship, my artivism began to take shape. I learned so much from people all around the world—their passion, projects, and their determination not to remain silent in protecting the environment.
While my friends and family were used to me discussing deep-sea topics, I still felt like I had no right to do so (silly, I know). When I first decided to advocate for the deep sea, it felt daunting, overwhelming, and a little lonely. Participating in TOP Co-Op gave me the push I needed to be open about my passion for the deep sea and take ownership of it. It wasn't just a hobby or a side project anymore. My heart kept insisting: 'Everybody should know about it, and once they see it, they will love it and care about it as much as you do!'
At the beginning of the TOP program, I had a vague idea of my interests, but it kept evolving as I learned more about activism and the various ways to create change and inspire others. What truly helped my idea mature was realizing that there were other activists out there willing to collaborate and help make it happen.
Art has the power to change the world, to give voice to the health of our oceans, and to awaken in us a passion for protecting even the creatures we might never see in person, but that are nonetheless magical and enchanting. It is with great pleasure and pride that I introduce my idea born in the TOP Co-Op incubation program: Under the Sea.
Under the Sea is a virtual art exhibition that focuses on highlighting artists working with themes like ocean conservation, sustainability, education, protection, and the deep sea. My goal is to provide an annual exhibition that raises awareness and inspires others to love the ocean as much as I do. My goal for Under the Sea is to evolve into a beacon of excellence, setting the standard for ocean-focused art exhibitions worldwide. Together, let us continue to celebrate the beauty of our oceans and work tirelessly to ensure their preservation for generations to come.
If this project is something you'd like to know more about and participate in, join us here!"