Plastic Present/Fluorescent Future
BY OYIZA ADABA, NEW YORK
"Plastic Present/Fluorescent Future: An Artistic Exploration of Plastic Pollution and the Impact of Abandoned, Damaged and Lost Fishing Gear ( ADLFG) on Marine Life" by Beatrice Bee Arthur
In a violently thought-provoking exhibition, Beatrice Bee Arthur joins the many artistic voices which seek to hold up a mirror to society and shed more light on one of the darkest and greatest environmental challenges of our time: plastic pollution and the deadly impact of nylon fishing nets on marine life.
Dubbed "Plastic Presence of a Fluorescent Future" this expo serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address the pervasive issue of oceanic degradation and ubiquitous presence of plastic bottles. Through the medium of a spectacular installation comprised of nylon fishing nets, broken mannequins, plastic forks ,straws, plates, dried coconuts, shells, plastic bottles, polyethylene sheets, a wooden board from a broken canoe, flattened aluminium coffee capsules and a broken mirror, Bee Arthur offers a unique perspective on the detrimental effects of human activity and plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and the planet as a whole.
Visitors to the Mother Earth Festival 2024 on the grounds of Aburi Botanical Gardens are confronted with powerful imagery depicting the stark reality of plastic waste choking our oceans, destroying our marine life and the devastating consequences for our environment. The mannequins, draped in discarded plastics, nylon nets and upcycled plastic products, serve as tangible reminders of the sheer volume of debris that finds its way into our lives and seas each day, and the extent to which we have become indifferently accustomed to its omnipresence.
Yet, amidst the somber portrayal of our plastic-laden present, Arthur offers glimpses of hope and resilience as she juxtaposes black nylon fishing nets with a vision of a fluorescent future where innovation and collective action lead to sustainable solutions and a brighter future. Through this captivating fashion and multimedia installation Bee Arthur explores innovative approaches to waste management, recycling, upcycling and eco-friendly alternatives.
The “Plastic Presence of a Fluorescent Future” expo not only serves as a platform for artistic expression through fashion but also sparks crucial conversations about consumer habits, corporate responsibility, and the importance of conservation efforts. Arthur hopes that visitors who engage with the installation will have discussions about the issues raised and explore actionable steps towards a more sustainable future.
"Plastic Present/Fluorescent Future" challenges us to confront the reality of our impact on the oceans while inspiring us to envision a brighter, more environmentally conscious tomorrow. It is a call to action for individuals, communities, and policymakers to take decisive steps towards preserving our planet's precious marine ecosystems for generations to come.
Plastic Present/ Fluorescent Future Expo is will last through the 27th and 28th of April 2024 as part of Mother Earth Festival organised by Green Butterfly Market. It is supported by Chaint Afrique/NetCycle & Creation Africa Ghana