The response to our 2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge has been overwhelming! We’ve been blown away by the sheer number of submissions we received from aspiring young scientists and artists worldwide. Last week, we proudly unveiled the finalists in the 11-14 age group, and now, we’re ecstatic to announce the finalists in the 15-19 year-old category.
These gifted students come from all over the globe, including The Bahamas, Canada, China, Greece, Japan, Indonesia, Korea, Thailand, and the United States. Their artwork brings the 2025 theme, “Marine Keystone Species,” to life in extraordinary ways. From intricate illustrations of krill and coral to impactful portrayals of sharks, sea otters, polar bears, mangroves, and more, each piece highlights the essential roles these species play in maintaining ocean balance and biodiversity.
Without further ado, please meet our talented 15-19 year old finalists! These exceptional artists have not only showcased their incredible talents but also their unwavering passion for marine conservation.
15-19 Year-Old Finalists
"The Great Shelter" by Siyoo Choi, Age 18, Republic of Korea
ARTIST'S STATEMENT: For underwater creatures, the kelp forest serves as a home. This is because it provides thousands of food and shelter, including fish, invertebrates, marine mammals, and birds. Therefore, I thought that underwater creatures could take a break, find stability, and leave again in the deep, dark sea, where they did not know where or what would appear. While maintaining the original appearance of the kelp forest, I expressed that it is a place where creatures can evacuate or rest by using leaves to form an entrance like a door. In addition, the role of a nest or place was emphasized by creating a bubble of the sea as if decorating the door of the kelp forest. An Orange Garibaldi is placed in the center of the screen to share the viewpoint of the fish entering the kelp forest with the audience.
Stay tuned! We will announce the winners in the next couple of weeks.