Oceans are some of the most beautiful and fascinating facets on the planet, but they are becoming contaminated by plastic pollution
Approximately six million tons of plastic waste enter the oceans each year, posing a massive threat to the pristine nature of their waters and the many species that call them home. However, by working to reduce, reuse and recycle plastic, our global community can fight to maintain the integrity and well-being of the marine world.
Plastic can be repurposed in a number of useful ways, and non-profit organization Washed Ashore, Art to Save the Sea is transforming plastic pollution into beautiful works of art. Their mission is to build and exhibit aesthetically powerful art to educate a global audience about plastic pollution in the ocean and waterways, and to spark positive changes in consumer habits. Residents in the Metro Vancouver area can now admire these works of art at the "Washed Ashore" Art to Save the Sea exhibit, on display now until April 30, 2022, at Metropolis at Metrotown.
Originally from Oregon and previously hosted at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and on The Kelly Clarkson Show, this is the first time "Washed Ashore" is being showcased in Western Canada. The Metropolis at Metrotown team is pleased to host this sustainable exhibit at its Grand Court, celebrating the community's local tie to the ocean with its proximity to the Pacific Coast.
"The 'Washed Ashore' exhibit is a beautiful and impactful art display, created to educate visitors on the importance of sustainability and reducing plastics from our oceans,” says Alice Wong, marketing manager for Metropolis at Metrotown. “We’re thrilled to showcase this exhibit in Western Canada, where we are deeply connected to the ocean. I look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to experience this unique exhibit."
The family-friendly, free of charge, beautiful exhibit features 10 giant marine life sculptures made up entirely of waste that has been collected from the Pacific Ocean, ranging from beach toys to plastic containers, automobile tires to electronics. The sculptures include Octavia the Octopus, a nine-by-12 foot octopus weighing 1200 pounds (pictured at top), and Grace the Humpback Whale Tail, spanning 10 feet high and 12 feet long, weighing 1800 pounds.
"Washed Ashore" is available for viewing at Metropolis at Metrotown (4700 Kingsway, Burnaby) during regular mall hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday and holidays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.