Presented by Bow Seat and Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), the Healthy Whale, Healthy Ocean Challenge was a new art scholarship program for K-12 residents of New England and the Gulf of Maine region, which ran from September 2018 through January 2019. Meet our guest judges.
Creativity in Conservation
How are humans connected to North Atlantic right whales?Why are North Atlantic right whales endangered? Why should we protect non-human beings? How can you personally help this cause?
Students of all ages were invited to explore these questions and more through visual art, poetry, or film that gives voice to the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale and inspires action for the protection of marine ecosystems, species, and resources.
“After taking part in the contest, many students vowed to be ocean-conscious citizens by continuing to educate themselves on the issue; spreading awareness; and making changes in their daily actions, such as limiting their plastic use. Their commitment and compassion give us hope for the future of our blue planet.”
—Alyssa Irizarry, Bow Seat’s Executive Director
Congratulations Winners!
More than 130 participants created works of art that celebrate right whales, emphasize the beauty of the species, and call attention to the many threats they face, including ship strikes, entanglements, and pollution. We are thrilled to share the winning submissions, which effectively combined knowledge of the issue, creative expression, and persuasive activism.
These compelling works offer attention and affection to an incredible species with whom we share this blue planet. They are reminders of our entangled history with right whales: hunted for centuries, the species was pushed to the brink. Today, humans remain their greatest threat. The artwork asks us to acknowledge how our actions continue to harm whales and invites us to reimagine a relationship grounded in respect and care.
Winners were selected in each of three age divisions and received cash scholarships ranging from $50-$750 each. Many thanks to BLICK Art Materials for donating gift cards to our Honorable Mention winners!
Winning artwork will be an important part of our ongoing campaign to inspire awareness, care, and action for ocean conservation through art exhibits and community events. Contact us if you are interested in hosting a show or collaborating with us!
Celebration of Youth Artists & Wavemakers
Challenge winners and participants were recognized on May 5th, 2019, at an awards ceremony during the Right Whale Festival at the New England Aquarium. This community event featured a student art exhibit, film screenings, presentations by youth conservation leaders, and a panel discussion with scientists and activists moderated by Brian Skerry.