For the Animals, For the Future is an integrative art installation displayed on the boardwalk outside of the Seattle Aquarium that aims to educate the public on the current threats to Pacific marine life by designing sculptures that pair an aquatic species with the biggest man-made threat to their survival, as well as encourage people to take action to combat these threats directly through their own interactions with these sculptures. With this project, I wanted to create sustainable, realistic, and interactive installations that could integrate with the appearance and values of the Seattle Aquarium while also changing the behaviors and actions of the people who pass by this area.
I specifically chose the Seattle Aquarium, as opposed to any other aquarium on the West Coast, because of the unique values and mission of the aquarium. The Seattle Aquarium is managed as a nonprofit by the Seattle Aquarium Society under the supervision of the City of Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation. This aquarium is unique because its fundamental mission is to inspire the conservation of our marine environment and protect the well-being of Pacific marine life. Along with being a place where tourists can visit and learn about marine animals, the Seattle Aquarium also functions as a conservation site and research and educational center where marine scientists lead workshops and events. These are often volunteer events, where people can sign up to help clean local beaches or advocate for more environmentalist policies in local government. They are also a rehabilitation center for injured wildlife and return most of the animals back to their homes once they are healed. I felt that the statements I wanted to make with For the Animals, For the People aligned with the mission of the aquarium and would encourage the public to actually go to the aquarium and learn how they can make a difference. I also included a plaque at various sites of entry onto the boardwalk that explained my vision for this installation and how it relates to the values of the Seattle Aquarium. Ultimately, I wanted to create an interactive experience for the public to have fun while also providing an opportunity for marine and environmental education.
