The response to our Science Without Borders® Challenge has been overwhelming! We’ve been blown away by the sheer number of submissions that we received from aspiring young scientists and artists all over the world. Last week, we proudly unveiled the finalists in the 11-14 age group, and now, we’re ecstatic to announce the finalists in the 15-19 year-old category.
These young artists hail from all corners of the globe, including China, Indonesia, Korea, the Philippines, Poland, Singapore, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. You will be amazed at their incredible artwork and how well they captured the essence of the theme, “The Sixth Extinction.” Students depicted a diverse range of endangered marine animals in their artwork including whales, fish, polar bears, sharks, sea otters, horseshoe crabs, seals, and crocodiles. We were amazed by these students’ boundless creativity, execution of the theme, and artistic abilities.
Without further ado, please meet our talented 15-19 year old finalists! These exceptional artists have not only showcased their incredible talents but also their unwavering passion for marine conservation.
"This is How it Starts" by Amy Brown, Age 17, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
ARTIST’S STATEMENT: The Banggai Cardinalfish is one of many marine species on the brink of extinction. Being removed from its habitat for the aquarium trade is one of the reasons that it’s decreased so sharply in numbers. I’ve chosen to use the child as a symbol for a new start - humankind reborn, given a second chance to heal the damage caused to sea life. As she draws, her imagination releases the fish to swim freely in their natural habitat. She doesn’t yet understand the dire implications of human actions on marine species like the one in her parent’s fish tank, which is alone in dirty water, representing the threat of extinction. However, she instinctivley knows that the exotic fish belongs in the ocean. She’s representing those that will grow up to do more than just draw its freedom, but actively work to ensure that it and other marine species can survive.
