
Hands of Dying Ocean
By Yena Lee
A sculpture revealing the struggle between industrial growth and marine ecosystems through the lens of environmental science.
Hands of the Dying Ocean depicts a bleeding fish with buildings rising from its back, surrounded by outstretched human hands. The sculpture contrasts natural forms with industrial structures, illustrating how urban growth feeds off the ocean’s resources. The piece reflects the effects of chemical pollution, destruction of habitat, and overfishing, which contribute to the decline of vital species like salmon.
Based on the concepts from ecology and environmental science, the work explores how human activities are pushing marine ecosystems beyond their capacity to recover. The shrinking populations of key species serve as bioindicators of ecosystem health. The outstretched hands symbolize collective responsibility and the role of human innovation in conservation. They highlight the importance of combining scientific understanding, sustainable methods, and cutting-edge technology to restore ocean health and ensure its protection over time.
