Growing up in a city, I wasn't always surrounded by nature but sought it out through books, documentaries, and art. When our class learned about the devastating effects of climate change, I was surprised that very few of my classmates seemed to care. If only people knew how diverse and beautiful the world around us truly is, they might be more motivated to care about climate change and take action to protect it. I feel as though children are one of the most potent forces of change in our world, and through the education of our scholars, we can create a generation full of compassion dedicated to all life on Earth. This sentiment is what I captured in my piece: the feeling of childhood wonder combined with a message about environmental change. I wanted to inspire people to open their minds to the imagination and encourage people to think about solutions for the future. I wanted my artwork to be more than just a visual piece; I wanted it to be a call to action. Using recycled materials, I aimed to show that even waste could be transformed into something beautiful and meaningful. The colorful birds represent the potential for change and the power of creativity in addressing environmental issues. Just as these birds soar with pride, we, too, can rise to the challenge of protecting our planet. In creating this piece, I wanted to inspire others to see the world through the eyes of a child, full of wonder and curiosity. If more people could reconnect with that sense of awe, they would feel more responsibility towards the environment. Every small action counts, and working together can make a significant impact. The process of making this artwork reminded me of the importance of education and its role in shaping our future. Educating young minds about our world's beauty and fragility can instill a sense of stewardship and drive for positive change. I hope this piece will raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire others to take action, no matter how small.
Daniel Kim, November 2024
Notable Recognition, Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Program 2024