Ge Shuwei
Bronze Prize
Title: Save the Sea
Competition Theme: Environment and Sustainability
Medium: Painting
Ge Shuwei’s thought-provoking work, “Save the Sea,” portrays the urgent dialogue between marine life's enchanting beauty and its vulnerability to human-induced environmental threats. Ge’s use of materials like quartz sand and ultralight clay, alongside a water marbling technique, creates a haunting depiction of the ocean's struggle against nuclear waste. Drawing inspiration from the expressive dot work of Gordon Hunt to the haunting visions of Lauren Marx, and the time-traversing brushstrokes of David Ambarzumjan, Shuwei’s art is a vivid montage of urgency and advocacy, urging a deeper consideration for our environmental responsibilities.
In awarding the Bronze Prize, the judges were struck by the clarity and depth with which Shuwei communicated her message, noting her well-managed presentation that intricately tied her project to the pressing issue of ocean conservation. They applauded her ability to weave personal insights with extensive research, resulting in a compelling call to action. Her engagement and commitment, coupled with her reflective and adaptable approach to the creative process, were seen as indicative of her potential for growth and impact within the artistic community, signaling a bright future for Shuwei as she uses her craft to champion the cause of the seas.