Meditations on the death of an empire
2023-2024
Mixed media on Canvas
8’ x 8’
Made during the mass coral beaching events of 2023 . ‘Meditations on the Death of an Empire’ was a reaction to going on a coral restoration dive with University of Miami’s ‘Rescue a Reef'. The work centers on a Vintruvian skeleton with an alarm on their head. Around the work you see a reef losing its color, stressed coral release the symbiotic algae that nourishes them— a bi-product of warming ocean temperatures. Coral scientists and concerned artists work quickly to plant heat resistant corals on the reef and communicate the corals plight. Composed as a giant ticking clock, the work is a reflection on watching empires fall and how engaged citizens can shape healthier outcomes through action.
Dive a Reef!
While there are many coral conservation efforts and reefs you can dive in South Florida, I would like to highlight
