Nature Talk: Eco Art & Ocean Plastics
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
with Katy Rodden Walker
About the Presentation
A special thank you to multidisciplinary artist and educator Katy Rodden Walker for joining WRWA this past April to share her inspiring presentation, Eco Art & Ocean Plastics. We also thank everyone who attended and participated in the discussion.
Katy's presentation explored how art can inspire environmental awareness by transforming discarded plastics into thought-provoking works that highlight the growing issue of plastic pollution. Blending science, creativity, and community engagement, she demonstrated how artists can play an important role in educating the public and encouraging environmental stewardship.
What Was Covered
The presentation explored the intersection of art, environmental science, and community action, including:
Katy's artistic practice, which examines the relationship between people, nature, and environmental justice
The growing problem of plastic pollution and the widespread presence of microplastics in our oceans and waterways
Research from organizations including Greenpeace and the Minderoo Foundation on the scale of global plastic waste
How a "studio discovery" inspired Katy's signature jellyfish sculptures made entirely from discarded plastic materials
The connection between jellyfish blooms and changing marine ecosystems affected by pollution and climate change
The Community Blooms project, which brought together beach cleanups, workshops, and collaborative artmaking at the New Bedford Whaling Museum
How public art can encourage conversations about conservation and inspire positive environmental action
Key Takeaways
Plastic pollution is one of the most significant environmental challenges affecting our waterways and oceans.
Art can make complex environmental issues more accessible, personal, and engaging.
Everyday discarded materials can become powerful tools for education and storytelling.
Community participation—including beach cleanups and collaborative art projects—helps foster environmental stewardship.
Small individual actions, when combined across a community, can make a meaningful difference in reducing pollution and protecting our natural resources.
Looking Ahead
Katy's presentation served as a reminder that protecting our environment requires both creativity and collaboration. Whether through reducing single-use plastics, participating in local cleanups, supporting environmental education, or simply starting conversations about plastic pollution, everyone has a role to play.
WRWA looks forward to continuing our Nature Talk series by connecting our community with experts, artists, and advocates who inspire us to better understand and protect the Westport River watershed.
To watch the full presentation, visit our YouTube channel and access her presentation below. You can also visit her website and follow her on Instagram:
Watch & Download
▶️ Watch the recorded talk on our YouTube Channel:
