Winners of the 2022 Science Without Borders® Challenge
The 2022 Science Without Borders® Challenge marked the tenth year of this international student art competition, inspiring young artists to learn about the ocean through creative expression. The theme, “Ridge to Reef,” encouraged students to explore the interconnectedness of land and sea, highlighting how actions taken throughout entire watersheds can influence the health of marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs.
This competition introduced students around the world to the plight of coral reefs and encouraged them to learn more about what can be done locally to save this critical marine ecosystem. With over 500 entries from nearly 50 countries, the competition showcased the diverse perspectives and artistic talents of students from around the world. Their artwork vividly illustrated how protecting forests, reducing pollution, and managing land use can have profound effects on coral reefs far downstream. From reforestation efforts to sustainable agricultural practices, these young artists captured the essence of ridge-to-reef conservation and its critical role in safeguarding marine biodiversity.
The winning entries stood out not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their compelling narratives about the symbiotic relationship between terrestrial and marine environments. Each piece serves as a testament to the power of art in raising awareness and inspiring action, reminding us that protecting coral reefs begins long before the water reaches the shore. We are proud to present the 2022 Challenge winners, whose art advocates for a holistic approach to conservation that bridges the gap from ridge to reef.
Winners & Finalists Ages 11-14:
"Restoration" by Emily Zhang, Age 13, Canada
ARTIST'S STATEMENT: When habitats are destroyed by human activity, restoration efforts are needed to return them to their original condition. In marine ecosystems, this process of renewal is made possible when ocean plant life is transplanted and encouraged to grow. In my piece, we see two characters engaged in the process of coral reef restoration. The work being done in the background reveals the result of their efforts in the foreground. The bright greens, reds, and purples of the foreground attract our attention, but then lead our eyes to the background work which made these colours possible. A sea turtle can be seen swimming between the characters, with coral reef on his back, representing the need to work with nature and not against it.
Winners & Finalists Ages 15-19:
First Place (15-19): "Rooted in the Ocean" by Yeon Jae Lee, Age 16, Republic of Korea
ARTIST’S STATEMENT: Ridge to reef management plans connect human activities that take place on land with the ocean. The specific solution that I have chosen to address with my artwork is reforestation. The roots of trees act as forest buffers and help prevent pollution from entering the water by stabilizing the sediment. The depiction of a father and son planting a young tree represents a hopeful future where the current generation can hold hands with the next generation to save the ocean. The illuminating roots of the trees depict the power that they hold in saving coral reefs. In the background, the trees and the sky seem to reflect the ocean to represent the connection between the world above and below the water. Finally, the ocean beneath is glowing with vibrant coral reefs and sea animals - an ocean that we must save.
