The success of the sold-out event at Rachel Bebb Contemporary on World Ocean Day demonstrated the growing interest in art with something important to say about the environmental crisis - art as a messenger. On this occasion, it was all about seagrass. Glassmakers Roberta Mason and Neil Wilkin spoke about reducing environmental impact through sustainable living and working on their smallholding in Wales. Their exhibits in Our Ocean, the latest exhibition at RBC, are made from re-melted waste glass. Roberta’s vessels are a vivid depiction of her experience of snorkelling through seagrass meadows. Both artists represent environmental advocacy and activism in action.
Roberta Mason - Seagrass III (re-melted waste glass, 26 x 23 x 24 cms)
The event raised funds for the Solent Seagrass Restoration Project. Dr. Tim Ferrero, Senior Specialist, Marine Conservation, for the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, spoke entertainingly and with conviction about the significance of seagrass. Seagrass is an unassuming little plant punching well above its weight. It produces oxygen, stores carbon, stabilises the coastline, provides habitat and nutrients for many species, and keeps the ocean clean. So how can it be that seagrass, like so many plants vital for survival, is globally threatened?
Alan Lovell, Chair of The Environment Agency, also spoke with fervour, drawing attention to the importance of that precious resource we largely take for granted - water. We might have seen a lot of rain this year in the UK, but that doesn’t guarantee an infinite supply! You might like to read this speech Alan gave last year to the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators:
Rachel Bebb Contemporary continues to be open by appointment. Watch out for newsletters and blogs about future shows and events, and my Eye on the Artist series. Next up will be Rebecca Newnham FRSS, Merlyn Chesterman RE and Neil Bousfield RE, all key contributors to Our Ocean and its ethos.
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Thank you.
Rebecca Newnham FRSS - Carbis Bay (glass, glass enamel, timber frame, 95 x 15.4 x 12 cms)
Merlyn Chesterman RE & Rod Nelson (woodcut, 4/50, 66 x 185 cms)
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