Piyanon Somboon, Echoes of Neglect

Описание: Echoes of Neglect is a digital art project that examines the impact of marine pollution on ocean ecosystems within the framework of a BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, Incomprehensible) world. This 2:17-minute video features twelve marine species ranging from jellyfish to starfish each constructed entirely from marine debris, such as plastic bottles, fishing nets, and cans. Using DALL·E 3 for static image creation and RunwayML for animation, the work presents a hyper-realistic yet symbolic depiction of nature’s degradation. The visual design employs a deep blue and gray color palette, with diffused lighting that casts soft shadows, creating a somber and oppressive atmosphere that reflects the brittle state of marine ecosystems. The non-linear narrative, which transitions between species without a predictable sequence, mirrors the incomprehensible scale of the ecological crisis, aligning with the symposium’s theme. For instance, the jellyfish, composed of debris like plastic bottles and nets, floats amidst a polluted coral reef, its slow movements evoking a sense of despair. By imagining a future where marine life is overtaken by waste, the project critiques humanity’s neglect of environmental responsibilities and calls for urgent action. This work contributes to the Design Thinking Research Symposium’s exploration of design as an interdisciplinary practice, where art and technology converge to address global challenges (Design Research Society, n.d.). It positions the artist as a generalist, integrating art, technology, and environmental advocacy to navigate the complexities of a BANI world. Through this project, I aim to foster emotional engagement, encouraging viewers to reflect on their role in a world where natural systems are increasingly fragile and unpredictable, and to inspire sustainable design solutions through the power of visual storytelling.