Reflection

Family beach trips shaped my childhood - collecting shells, diving for “treasure,” and swimming made the ocean feel like home. In The Ocean and We, I wanted to show both its beauty and its heaviness when mistreated. The girl covered in barnacles represents how inaction allows consequences to accumulate, while the dove symbolizes hope and forgiveness. In the ocean, anything that stays still becomes encrusted; similarly, humanity often freezes in guilt instead of choosing to act. While creating this piece, I realized most people already know we’re in a climate crisis—what we need now is motivation rooted in care, not shame. I used acrylic paint for its forgiving nature, aligning with the theme of grace and second chances. Ultimately, the message I hope to leave with viewers is simple: you are the light and the change—but a light hidden away might as well not exist.