"Barbara Manatee" is a powerful and thought-provoking mixed-media artwork that features a manatee, lovingly named Barbara, depicted amidst a backdrop of vibrant blues and dynamic splashes of color. The figure of Barbara, a symbol of grace and vulnerability, is intricately constructed from newspaper clippings, each article shedding light on the dangers of plastics and trash polluting our oceans. These clippings serve not only as a historical record but as a reminder of the urgent environmental crisis facing our marine life.
The manatee, often associated with peacefulness and calm, stands in stark contrast to the chaotic and damaging effects of human activity represented through the newspaper's stories. The combination of the black-and-white image of Barbara and the bright, expressive background symbolizes the struggle between the natural world and the destructive forces threatening it. "Barbara" is a call to action, urging the viewer to reflect on the impact of ocean pollution while celebrating the beauty of these magnificent creatures. This piece blends art and activism, making it a visually striking and socially relevant addition to any collection.
