Abstract
M.Tech. (Fine Art)
The purpose of my study is to investigate artistic responses to marine plastic pollution. There is a deficit of awareness regarding this environmental phenomenon. Therefore, I examine the extent of the problem of marine plastic pollution on a global and local scale. I refer specifically to Hibberdene, a small South African coastal town situated on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast. I present various approaches used by ecological artists in order to respond to environmental problems. I analyse selected ethical and moral values in relation to how artists focus their art practice to create social change. I further argue that local artistic responses, including in my own work, in relation to selected international artistic responses, can open the field for further development and exploration. I provide a critical analysis of selected works by artists, Simon Max Bannister and Pamela Longobardi, in order to understand the conceptual basis of the work. These works exemplify the elements which I adopt in the practical component of my research. I contend that by using visual art practice, it is possible to raise awareness about marine plastic pollution. I argue that art can provide opportunities for creative, critical, personal reflection using a range of multidisciplinary approaches in order to draw attention to marine plastic pollution.