Coastal public art: an innovative way to disseminate ocean science

Unrestricted In order to sustain life on our planet the public's perception of the world's oceans needs to change and it is vital that progress is made towards greater ocean consciousness. To do this, I propose an innovative model for communicating ocean science, which I have called coastal public art. I envision this art genre evolving as artists and scientists collaborate to develop an interdisciplinary communication that intertwines art and ocean science, uses new media and technology, engages community, and exists in public spaces. This new genre of art will spawn effective dissemination of ocean literacy. Through coastal public art, I suggest several ways in which aquariums, government programs, environmental groups, and independent collectives can establish dynamic relationships between public audiences and ocean science, thereby engendering more ecological awareness.