Reflection

The inspiration for my piece came from learning about the growing crisis of microplastic pollution in our oceans. Every day, new studies reveal how even the smallest organisms—plankton—are being contaminated. These tiny creatures, the foundation of countless marine ecosystems, now carry microplastics in their bodies. As krill, small fish, and even whales feed on them, our synthetic waste climbs the food chain, endangering the entire marine web and, ultimately, the health of coastal human communities. With this painting, I wanted to remind viewers that despite their minuscule size, plankton are the silent giants that uphold oceanic life and, by extension, the seafood we depend on. The contest's theme, Looking Inside, Going Outside, challenged me to reflect on my own role in contributing to plastic pollution, while also deepening my appreciation for the beauty and fragility of the natural world. Because the ocean is so vast and seemingly indestructible, it's easy to overlook the subtle yet devastating effects of human activity. Through this work, I hope to raise awareness and inspire others to consider the long-term consequences of our actions—and to advocate for stronger environmental protections before it’s too late.