Want to see the wonderful room that Mandy created?
Mandy Barker
“Ocean Galaxy”
International award-winning photographic artist 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 whilst highlighting the harmful effect on marine life and ultimately ourselves.
The aim of my work within the space is to engage with and stimulate an emotional response in the guest by combining a contradiction between initial aesthetic attraction along with the message of awareness. The impact of marine plastic is an area I have documented for more than 10 years and am committed to pursuing on many different platforms. In the case of the Art Hostel I hope the space will be an invitation for a relaxed stay with a message, and that people will go away remembering the experience, mindful of the issue, that will ultimately lead to positive action in tackling this increasing environmental problem, which is currently of global concern.
The room is based around a galaxy of suspended footballs, giving the impression that the guests themselves are part of a unique solar system. The footballs are in fact marine plastic pollution, a total of 992 marine debris balls recovered from the world’s oceans in just 4 months. 769 footballs from 41 different countries and islands and from 144 different beaches, by 89 members of the public. Surrounding walls of the room show collections from Europe, the United Kingdom, and a recovery of 228 balls by one person. Laying in bed looking at the ceiling reveals the global collaboration of over 769 footballs collected by the world’s public.
The FIFA World Cup was the catalyst for the creation of this project to be able to raise awareness during an international sporting event.
PENALTY is the name of the series with the double meaning; PENALTY is a punishment for breaking a rule in the game of football, and in relation to this project, a PENALTY is the price we will all pay if we do not look after our oceans by managing the over consumption of plastic and becoming responsible for its disposal.
