Eco-Art Competition 2022

According to Abrahamic religions, the Garden of Eden is an earthly paradise made to be inhabited by God's creations. Yet, increasingly, our planet continues to deteriorate, straying further and further from this biblical vision of paradise. Every day, carbon emissions melt ice caps, urban runoff contaminates freshwater, and deforestation destroys ecosystems. The issue of environmental conservation was brought to my attention in my AP biology class, where I was introduced to an environmental service project. Through my exploration of ways to improve water quality, I learned that plants can absorb carbon dioxide and expel oxygen. In aquatic environments, plants also absorb nutrients, bacteria, metals, and chemicals, which help animals and strengthen habitats. As I conducted research for my conservation project, I realized that many aspects of the environment are interconnected. Through improving water systems, we are simultaneously addressing the problem of climate change. In order to preserve the Earth, we must think of our planet as a whole. Even small changes, no matter how minuscule they seem individually, can impact the world collectively. My piece depicts the coexistence of humanity and nature in which both sides are balanced and equal in size. By protecting the environment and being mindful of our ecological footprint, our home would in turn be able to better sustain us. Through the use of vibrant colors and soft lighting, I depicted a tranquil future where this harmonious relationship will allow plants to flourish and streams to glow. However, an ominous gloom pervades the background of my piece, and a creeping fog reminds us of reality. Currently, my artwork is only a vision--though it is one that can be achieved through time and dedication. To cultivate our garden of Eden, we must all plant the seeds of change and nurture them until they blossom.