Rylee Ewert (Baylor University)
Artist Statement:
A less witnessed consequence of climate change is the rise of acidity levels in the ocean. As carbon dioxide emissions sink into the sea, rising acidity levels kill many species of coral, plant life, and species of marine life. The skeletons of marine creatures break down under these worsening conditions, and the acidity slows other life processes like home building (such as the formation of shells). As it relates to us, the loss of coral and other structural organisms is not only a matter of natural beauty, but it also means less food, disrupted ecosystems, and the erosion of sea coasts. In the same way, this ceramic conch shell represents an organism slowly bleached and dissolving because of acidity from our emissions-reliant species. Those who hold this shell in fear of its fragility must also consider the earth as an entity impacted by the actions of our hands.
Not for sale (NFS)