Winners of the 2023 Science Without Borders® Challenge
The 2023 Science Without Borders® Challenge invited young artists from around the world to raise awareness about endangered marine species with the theme, “The Sixth Extinction.” This theme challenged students to reflect on the alarming rate at which marine species are disappearing—many due to human activities such as overfishing, pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction.
With over 1,200 entries from 67 countries, the competition showcased an extraordinary level of talent and environmental consciousness. Students aged 11-19 submitted artwork that not only celebrated the beauty of endangered species but also highlighted the critical threats they face. Their detailed imagery and emotional depth brought to life the struggles of species like the vaquita, hawksbill sea turtle, and many other marine species teetering on the brink of extinction.
The winning pieces captivated us with more than just their artistic brilliance—they delivered powerful messages about the fragile balance of marine ecosystems and humanity’s role in their preservation. These artworks are more than visual masterpieces; they are urgent calls to action, reminding us that the future of our oceans depends on the choices we make today. We are honored to showcase the 2023 Challenge winners, whose art inspires hope and a renewed commitment to protecting marine biodiversity.
Winners & Finalists Ages 11-14:
First Place (11-14): "The sea bears witness to everything" by Yanjun Mao, Age 14, China
ARTIST'S STATEMENT: The carapace of the hawksbill sea turtle is beautiful ，This has led to a continuous decline in the number of hawksbill sea turtles, and there is a danger of extinction. The background is a tearful eye, and the eyeball is the earth, which symbolizes the ocean. The ocean is the home of the hawksbill sea turtle. The ocean has witnessed all the history of the hawksbill sea turtle. not only the importance of this species, but also witnessing the killing of many hawksbill sea turtles by humans, This evidence proves that the earth is facing the sixth mass extinction. Hawksbill sea turtles are just one of them. The water drop represents the sorrow of the turtle, The light of the sun in the distance represents the hope of the future, because human beings have realized the importance of protecting marine life.
Winners & Finalists Ages 15-19:
Second Place (15-19): "The Currents of Pollution" by Celine Yang, Age 15, Republic of Korea
ARTIST’S STATEMENT: When it comes to the topic of the sixth extinction, many may think we need to make a choice between industry and the environment. In order to convey the effects of an industrializing society, factories producing fossil fuels and an airplane are positioned as a 'reflection' of the Humpback whale in order to visually portray the close proximity of human industrialization and its impacts on marine life. The ships surrounding the whale exhibit a juxtaposition between the beauty of the whale and the harsh reality of sound pollution that interferes with the whale’s ability to navigate. By illustrating the oblivious actions that contribute to marine life becoming endangered, this piece aims to shift negligent views on the sixth extinction, establishing the perception that taking action is a necessity rather than a mere choice.
