Reflection

We were inspired to create a mosaic that represents the detrimental effects of plastic pollution in our oceans. Through our choice of mixed media using recycled tiles, plastics, and glass, we hope to shine a new light on the destructive actions of human beings and provide motivation to become a catalyst for positive change. A mosaic requires a copious amount of small fragments to be joined in order to create a large and beautiful image. Such as the motivation behind this contest, innovation to purify our oceans requires the seemingly insignificant acts of people to come together in order to make a tremendous impact.

In preparation for our mosaic, we visited a handful of local reclamation stores in Seattle, Washington and purchased materials that support the recycling process. From the beginning, our goal was to represent every creature affected by ocean pollution and so we decided to use a sea turtle as the focal point. We chose a turtle because of the many cultural depictions of the large, majestic animal. Since the sea turtle is a global symbol for marine life and environmentalism, we decided to incorporate the direct correlation of pollution and harm to the lives being affected in the ocean. We chose to show a hand dropping garbage onto the beach because it offers a blatant reminder that humans are destroying a fragile ecosystem and that change is needed. Destruction began yesterday, renovation starts today.