I created the Holocene Extinction piece for my "Loss of Identity" themed IB Art Exhibition.
Our ecosystem stems from millions of years of evolutionary history. Species that took millions of years to evolve in are now eradicated decades. We have brought about an extinction event through our indifferent consumption of the Earth’s habitats and resources.
Coral bleaching is caused by rising ocean temperatures and water pollution. I chose to depict coral bleaching in this piece because of its striking finality. Coral bleaches due to starvation and being close to death, and the profound suffering it endures changes the appearance of the ocean floor. Its like a last call for help. As if they have surrendered and are awaiting the end of a battle.
The Holocene Extinction sculpture is displayed along side silverware, and placed on a tablecloth. The tablecloth is decorated with the names of species made extinct by humans in the Holocene Extinction. This piece aims to confront the viewer with the irreversibility of our consumption.
Coral Detail 1
Coral Detail 2
Coral Detail 3
Coral Detail 4
Display Detail
Table Cloth Detail
Final Display
Wheel-spun Plate
Forming Brain Coral
Carving Brain Coral
Forming Digitate Coral
Forming Lettuce Coral
Final Assembly
Glazing Process
Laser Cut Names
Building Template
Spray-painted Names onto Cloth
