Mandy Barker for HRW

Mandy Barker

-In what way is ART a tool for activism?

Art can be a powerful form of communication, providing a visual message when sometimes over-complicated statistics or articles are difficult to understand. I believe art can change people. It can also transcend the barrier of language. If at best my work can educate people to change their habits and lead them to positive action in tackling this ever increasing environmental problem - or at the very least cause people to think, then I will have achieved my aim.

-In what way does your chosen piece for HRW reflect 2020?

This image represents the mass accumulations of plastic currently being found in some the remotest and untouched places on earth. It reflects the current state of our oceans, of how plastic has now reached every corner of the globe, from the poles to equator, and from the seas surface to the ocean floor. We are at crisis point, and need to STOP producing unnecessary single use plastic before we cause irreversible damage.

-What gives you hope?

That most people are now aware of the plastic pollution issue and want to do something about it. During anxious and difficult times this year many people have found solace in nature with time to appreciate the outdoors. COP26 climate talks that will bring nations together to agree coordinated action to tackle the plastic issue.

BIO

Mandy Barker is an international award-winning photographer whose work involving marine plastic debris over the past 10 years has received global recognition. Working with scientists she aims to raise awareness about plastic pollution in the world's oceans, highlighting the harmful effect on marine life and ourselves - ultimately leading the viewer to take action.

Barker's work has been published in over 40 different countries including; National Geographic Magazine, Time, Vogue, New Scientist, and illustrated key academic and scientific research papers. Barker was shortlisted for the Prix Pictet Award Space, the world's leading photography award for sustainability, and regularly takes part in research expeditions that take her to some of the remotest places on the planet to represent plastic pollution issue.

www.mandy-barker.com Instagram: @mandybarkerphotography

This artwork is unframed and located in Brighton, UK. WILLAS contemporary will facilitate artwork release within 21 days after payment. Can be picked up by the buyer, or shipped at the buyer´s expense.