While a press release is effective, and a billboard gets attention, if you really want the public to care about your cause we recommend the mural as PSA. Recently, Pangeaseed, a global marine conservation organization, sponsored Sea Walls: murals for oceans. Held in Cozumel, Mexico, the event challenged artists to create 35 original artworks to heighten awareness of pressing marine environmental issues. This included everything from over fishing and shark finning, to climate change and and coral reef conservation.
In addition to mural-making, the artists also dove head-first into the rich world of Cozumel’s fragile marine ecosystems-- and learned tips and faqs from local environmentalist. Some events this lucky team bore witness to included endangered sea turtles laying their eggs and then releasing their hatchlings into the ocean.
During the event, which spanned the month of July, Pangeaseed team members also organized educational activities for the the island’s kids. These were focused on the importance of learning about rare animals like sharks, turtles, and dolphins, and often involved arts and crafts projects utilizing reclaimed materials.
An homage to marine biologist, explorer, author, and lecturer, Dr. Sylvia Earle.
“The power of public art and activism has the ability to educate and inspire the global community to help save our seas,” says Pangeaseed executive director Tre Packard. “No matter where you are in the world, the ocean supplies us with every second breath we take and life on earth cannot exist without healthy oceans. With dwindling global fish stocks, rising sea levels, and widespread pollution, whether you live on the coast, in the city or in the mountains, we should all feel responsible for the health of the oceans and life that lives within it.”
