Winners of the 2018 Science Without Borders® Challenge

The 2018 Science Without Borders® Challenge invited students from around the world to illustrate the theme, “Why Coral Reefs Matter.” Organized by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation in partnership with the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI), this international student art competition encouraged young artists to use their creativity to highlight the vital role of coral reefs in marine ecosystems and human communities. The theme was selected in honor of the International Year of the Reef (IYOR), emphasizing the urgent need to protect these critical ecosystems.

Through their participation, students gained a deeper understanding of why coral reefs matter. Coral reefs support marine biodiversity, protect coastlines, and provide livelihoods for millions of people. However, they are increasingly threatened by climate change, pollution, and overfishing. By researching these topics and expressing them through art, students became more aware of the challenges coral reefs face and the steps needed to protect them.

The competition was divided into two age categories: high school (15-19 years old) and middle school (11-14 years old). Winning artworks beautifully captured the complexity and fragility of coral reef ecosystems, inspiring viewers to appreciate and protect these underwater treasures.

Through this challenge, the Living Oceans Foundation hopes to raise public awareness about the need to preserve, protect, and restore coral reefs. Each year, the Science Without Borders® Challenge encourages students to use art to express their concerns about the ocean, and their work reflects a deep passion for marine conservation. The 2018 entries demonstrated how young people around the world recognize the value of coral reefs and the urgent need to safeguard them for future generations.

Middle School Winners & Finalists:

High School Winners & Finalists: