Oceans: Part 2, Art from our Trash

In Oceans: Part 1, we talked about the insane amount of plastic waste in the oceans and a few ways we can reduce our own negative contributions. 

The Washed Ashore Project responds to this waste with a few solutions. The project started with artist Angela Haseltine Pozzi, who wanted to do something with the plastic polluting Oregon beaches. She uses the litter gathered by volunteers to create giant sculptures of marine life. 

(Image ©WashedAshore.org)

These sculptures are created from all sorts of debris, that you may or may not expect to see discarded in the ocean - from bottles and bottle caps to beach toys, toothbrushes, shoes, lighters, sunglasses, and more.

In addition to creating the sculptures, the Washed Ashore Project has become a full-fledged educational program with staff and volunteers. The sculptures go on exhibit at zoos, aquariums, and museums to teach the public about pollution, conservation, and our ocean life. 

(Image ©WashedAshore.org)

If you are in the Pacific Northwest, you have some opportunities to see these in person this year: 

The Washed Ashore Project's home is in Bandon, OR with regular open hours Thursdays-Saturdays.
They are also going to be on exhibit at the Point Defiance Zoo in Tacoma, WA starting 4/17.

How you can get involved:

• Visit the project's website or Facebook page. 
• Visit the Bandon, OR workshop to participate in the process. 
• Reduce, reuse, and recycle your own plastic, and make sure to pack out your trash at beaches and parks.