Get ready to dive into a world of creativity and conservation! The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation is thrilled to announce the finalists of the Science Without Borders® Challenge. This year’s theme, “Marine Keystone Species,” invited young artists from across the globe to explore the critical roles these species play in shaping and sustaining healthy ocean ecosystems.
We were amazed by the response—more than 1,300 entries from 75 countries poured in, each a powerful testament to students’ talent and environmental awareness worldwide. These stunning artworks showcase diverse marine life, from foundational species at the base of the food web and grazers to apex predators and ecosystem engineers.
Every submission brought a unique voice to the conversation about marine keystone species. Most artists focused on a single species’ essential role, keeping its ecosystem healthy, while others portrayed a variety of marine keystone species. After much thoughtful consideration, our panel of judges selected a group of finalists whose pieces stood out for their creativity, originality, and strong connection to this year’s theme.
We can’t wait for you to see what these young artists have created. So, without further ado, we proudly present the finalists in the Ages 11–14 category of the 2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge. Prepare to be inspired by their imaginative interpretations and powerful messages about protecting the species that keep our ocean in balance.
11-14 Year-Old Finalists
"Subtle Shaper" by Jiyul Lim, Age 14, United States of America
ARTIST STATEMENT: This painting displays the star-shaped starfish in a subtle way which shows how they protect the ocean in a subtle way. Starfish are one of the most vital marine animals that control and keep other marine animals safe from their predators. They eat mussels, sand dollars, and sea urchins to shape the beautiful oceans we have today. The ocean is unimaginable without them, and we must strive to protect them.
Stay tuned to find out who the finalists are from students in our 15-19 year-old category!