Get ready to be inspired! The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation is delighted to reveal the finalists of the 2023 Science Without Borders® Challenge. This year’s theme is “The Sixth Extinction,” and we challenged young artists from around the world to create a piece of artwork that highlights the beauty and importance of a marine species that are on the brink of extinction. We are thrilled with the entries that we received!
Over 1,200 entries flooded in from 67 different countries, and let us tell you, it was no easy feat to choose the finalists. But after much deliberation, our judges have selected finalists whose exceptional artwork surpassed all expectations in terms of creativity, originality, and adherence to the theme.
The submissions were simply breathtaking, and we can’t wait for you to see them. So, without further ado, here are the finalists for Ages 11-14 of the 2023 Science Without Borders® Challenge. These talented artists will leave you in awe with their remarkable creations that bring attention to the urgency of preserving our treasured marine species.
"Vanishing Beauty" by Jua Lee, Age 14, United States of America
ARTIST'S STATEMENT: The Sixth Extinction is particularly significant since it is the first to be caused primarily by human activities rather than natural causes. Bringing more awareness about endangered animals and calling other people into action is crucial. The vibrant color scheme represents aquatic ecosystems' beauty and vitality while symbolizing the urgent need to protect them. The intricate patterns of the fish represent the diversity and complexity of life on Earth. At the same time, its endangered status reminds people of the urgent need to protect and preserve our planet's ecosystems. Despite the hopelessness, the sparks on the fish symbolize the optimism people hold on to in difficult situations like this. There is still time to save our endangered animals and end the Sixth Extinction.
Stay tuned to find out who the finalists are from students in our 15-19 year-old category!
