Reflection

Between 1947 and 1979, the Hudson River and its wildlife suffered from pollution produced by large companies along its banks. In recent years, marine biologists’ and conservationists’ dedicated efforts to clean up the river have prevailed. Increased sightings of humpback whales in New York Harbor just off the shores of Manhattan are a testament of improving conditions. I have sailed on the Hudson River for years and personally witnessed the gradual return of wildlife to the area. Yet, despite these advancements, I continue to helplessly watch litter float by on the river’s surface. My painting was created with the intention to remind people that there is still work to be done. In it, both a whale and a sinking ship are trapped in a bottle - a literal representation of pollution’s impact on wildlife as a result of human neglect. The sinking ship symbolizes human carelessness and the whale embodies the innocence of the marine life our negligence directly impacts. The sunrise in the background represents hope, inspired by the burgeoning humpback whale presence in the Hudson River, signifying cleaner water. The concept of hope is further explored in the piece because the whale, although trapped in litter, is swimming in clean water, a subtle homage to the success of Hudson River conservationists.