Marine Plastics Project- Laysan Albatross

I've started a new series of projects reflecting on the effects of plastic pollution on the marine environment. Using plastic debris collected from the open ocean or specific beach locations, I create collaged portraits of the animals most affected by this plastic smog that is floating through our oceans. 

For my first piece in the series, I have used plastic collected by Capt. Charles Moore of the Alguita at Kamilo Beach in Hawaii, a place that is sadly overrun by plastic debrit that floats in on currents from the open ocean. The Laysan Albatross is of particular concern in Hawaii, because it nests on the outer islands and the chicks are often mistakenly fed plastic by their parents. These birds skim for food on the surface of the water, which makes it easy for them to pick up floating bits of plastic instead. 

Researching this project and working with marine plastic as a medium was very eye-opening for me and encouraged me to take steps in my everyday life to reduce the amount of plastic I use. I hope it will encourage others to do the same.

Sorting of the plastic debris used in the collage.

Beginning the collage processFinished collage. Larger image can be seen in the gallery.