Original artwork description:

This painting is dedicated to our coral reefs. I envisioned an underwater garden of corals and fish. The sea turtles are the gardeners that tend to the reef by controlling sponge populations and by distributing nutrients for a balanced and vibrant reef ecosystem.

A coral reef acts like an underwater seawall by absorbing energy. The physical presence of the reef forms a protective barrier that buffers the coastline from storms, surges, and floods. Healthy reefs are a vital defense against storm surges.

Unlike artificial breakwaters, a living coral reef has the capacity to repair and maintain itself. It is cheaper to repair our reefs than build artificial breakwaters. Remember and protect what is under our oceans!

Materials used:

linen, stretcher bars, oil paints