Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Programs

?? Bow Seat is thrilled to announce the launch of the 14th annual Ocean Awareness Contest– “Connections to Nature: Looking Inside, Going Outside”. ?? The 2025 Ocean Awareness Contest – Connections to Nature – invites you to reflect on your unique bond with the natural world. Whether it’s discovering the history of the land you live on, joining the fight against climate change, or finding peace in a walk through the park, we encourage you to explore how you connect with nature. Express your thoughts and experiences through art, writing, performance, film, or multimedia, and share your relationship to the natural world. ?? Visit the Contest website to explore our four sub-themes: Generational Knowledge??, which looks at the wisdom passed down through generations about our connection to the earth; Concrete Jungle ???, exploring nature’s role in urban spaces; Resilience??, highlighting how humans and ecosystems adapt to environmental challenges; and Healthy Environments, Healthy Humans??♀?, focusing on the link between nature’s health and our own well-being. Use these prompts to inspire your creative work! ?? Students ages 11-18 can submit their entries for a chance to earn cash prizes of up to $1,000 USD, while contributing to the world's largest environmental creative arts program for young people. ?? Get working on your masterpiece! Learn more and submit your work at ??bit.ly/BowSeat2025 (also linked in bio) ?? #ConnectionToNature #YouthPower #BeTheChange #ArtContest #PoetryContest #Youth #KidsContest #School #ClimateHero #Nature #Activism #Artivism #Advocacy #Ocean #WorldOceanDay #Teacher #Teachers #Students #Environment #Nature #YouthOpportunity #ClimateJustice #OceanGeneration #FundingScheme #GoodCauses #ArtContest2025

Meet the 2024 Junior Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest: Tell Your Climate Story. These young visionaries have channelled their unique experiences and perspectives into powerful creations that inspire action and awareness. They are not just storytellers; they are changemakers. ?? Today, we are shining a spotlight on the Junior Gold Winners; each piece is a remarkable tribute to the resilience, imagination, and passion of our youth. From compelling visuals to profound personal narratives, their works resonate deeply, reminding us all of the importance of sharing our climate stories and fostering hope. ?? And this is just the beginning! Explore the complete collection of winning entries and discover the full range of creativity and insight by visiting our open-access online gallery at www.bowseat.org/gallery ??We promise you not just a showcase but an entire digital expedition into the collective consciousness of a generation determined to make a difference. Join us in amplifying these artists and their inspiration, because together, we’re not just witnesses; we’re active participants in the movement for a sustainable future. #BowSeatWinners #ClimateStories #CreativeActivism #YouthVoices #Art #Inspiration #GenerationChange #YouthEmpowerment #Sustainability #Artivism #CommunityVoices #Hope #Resilience #EnvironmentalAdvocacy

?? Drumroll, please! ?? The moment we've all been waiting for is finally here: announcing the extraordinary winners of the 2024 Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest: Tell Your Climate Story. These young visionaries have channeled their unique experiences and perspectives into powerful creations that inspire action and awareness. They are not just storytellers; they are changemakers. ?? Today, we are shining a spotlight on the Senior Gold Winners—each piece is a remarkable tribute to the resilience, imagination, and passion of our youth. From compelling visuals to profound personal narratives, their works resonate deeply, reminding us all of the importance of sharing our climate stories and fostering hope. ?? And this is just the beginning! Explore the complete collection of winning entries and discover the full range of creativity and insight by visiting our open-access online gallery at https://lnkd.in/ga5RB4dT ??We promise you not just a showcase but an entire digital expedition into the collective consciousness of a generation determined to make a difference. Join us in amplifying these artists and their inspiration, because together, we’re not just witnesses; we’re active participants in the movement for a sustainable future. #BowSeatWinners #ClimateStories #CreativeActivism #YouthVoices #Art #Storytelling #ClimateAction #OceanAwareness #Inspiration #GenerationChange #YouthEmpowerment #Sustainability #Artivism #CommunityVoices #GalleryShowcase #Hope #Resilience #EnvironmentalAdvocacy

Now more than ever, we need to highlight the work of the climate heroes affecting change. It's crucial to focus on the remarkable contributions of the 2023 Ocean Awareness Contest winners during these times when the urgency for environmental advocacy grows ever more apparent. These young artists have tapped into their creativity to spotlight the essential work of those at the forefront of ecological conservation, underscoring the need for continued and enhanced efforts. Their artworks, ranging from community clean-ups to international policy advocacy, reflect a collective aspiration for a healthier planet. They remind us, through vibrant and emotive expressions, of the significant impact dedicated individuals can have. As one artist shared, "Through our art, we voice the planet's plea, emphasising what we must protect and persevere for." With the upcoming 2024 Contest announcement, we anticipate introducing another wave of young visionaries committed to ocean and climate advocacy. Their voices are needed now more than ever to sustain and amplify this critical conversation. Cover art: Shangraw’s Guide to Saving the World by Helen McCarty #BowSeat #OceanAwarenessContest2024 #OceanAwarenessContest #ArtContest #Art #Teens #Youth #ClimateHeroes #SylviaEarle #ClimateAction #SDG14 #SDGs #Artivism #ClimateDefiance #YouthArtists #Ocean #ArtistsOfInstagram

In just 7 days, the excitement reaches new heights as we get ready to unveil the results of the 2024 Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest. This year’s theme, "Tell Your Climate Story," has sparked a surge of creativity and passion, bringing forth powerful entries that have left our judging panel deeply moved. From mesmerising artwork to heartfelt stories, each submission is a tribute to the voices sharing their unique climate journeys. The theme encouraged young people to explore their climate story, inviting them to creatively express their personal experiences, insights, or perceptions about our changing reality. This opportunity prompted participants to learn about pressing climate-related issues and reflect on how they impact their families and communities. Our founder, Linda Cabot, shared her admiration, noting that the exceptional quality of this year’s entries speaks volumes about the resilience and dedication within our community. The judging process has been anything but simple, with the panel facing the tough task of choosing winners from a collection of truly outstanding submissions. As we count down to the big reveal, prepare to be inspired by the personal stories that highlight hope, determination, and action in the face of climate challenges. Join us as we honour those who are sharing their climate stories and inspiring us all to protect our blue planet. Stay tuned for this celebration of courage and change! #Winners #Countdown #ArtReveal #WinnersAnnouncement

Aquaculture: A solution or a new set of problems? ?? As the global appetite for seafood grows, many turn to fish farming to reduce the strain on our oceans. But is it really a sustainable alternative? ?? Bow Seat's Future Blue Youth Council member Sabine Cuesta explores this in her blog, diving into the benefits of aquaculture like food security and economic stability, as well as the challenges it presents, from feed dependency to environmental impacts. Swipe through to discover the layers behind this complex topic and see why conscious seafood choices matter more than ever?? Do you think aquaculture is the way forward, or should we be exploring other solutions? Share your thoughts below! ?? Detailed blog is available through the link in our bio #oceanconservation #marinebiology #youthactivism #environment #savetheocean #blueplanet #sustainability #community #changemakers #futureleaders #bowseat #aquaculture #fishing #fish #seafood #cavier

??Last few days until we close the applications for 2025 Future Blue Youth Council! If you're a former Bow Seat alum (past participant or fellowship recipient) or currently participating in the 2025 Ocean Awareness Contest, and aged 16-21, this is your chance to take action! ?? Here’s the scoop: by joining the 2025 Ocean Awareness Contest, you’ll not only get to flex your creativity for a cause, but you’ll also instantly qualify to join the Bow Seat alumni network, a growing community of young changemakers like you who care about our planet. And trust us, being a Bow Seat alum has perks! One of the coolest? You’ll get the chance to apply for the Future Blue Youth Council (FBYC), a program dedicated just to our alumni for youth-led action, creativity, and leadership on environmental issues. As part of the FBYC, you’ll work with other passionate young people, gain real-world skills, and get support for your projects. It’s an amazing way to take your ideas to the next level, connect with mentors, and inspire change. Sound like your vibe? Participate in the 2025 Ocean Awareness Contest, and apply for the 2025 FBYC by Nov 7 ?#FutureBlueYouth #BowSeatAlumni #MakeWaves #YouthForTheOcean

?? Inspiring Change Through Art at the 2024 Climate Beacon Conference and "Thinking About Climate Change: Art, Science, and Imagination in the 21st Century" Conference Susan Tang, Bow Seat’s Contest Programs Manager, joined forces with changemakers at two impactful gatherings: the 2024 Climate Beacon Conference and the "Thinking About Climate Change: Art, Science, and Imagination in the 21st Century" conference. Each event brought a unique lens to the climate conversation. At the Climate Beacon Conference, leaders from New England and beyond engaged in over 25 sessions with insights from more than 50 global climate experts. The gathering provided a collaborative platform for corporate, municipal, and community leaders to align on pathways toward a sustainable, resilient future. Bow Seat’s pop-up exhibit featured eight stunning pieces from Ocean Awareness Contest winners, capturing the urgency of climate action through the eyes of youth. Attendees, including Governor Maura Healy and Mayor Michelle Wu, were reminded of the critical role young voices play in driving climate solutions. Meanwhile, the "Thinking About Climate Change" conference, held at the University of Massachusetts Boston, explored interdisciplinary connections between the arts, sciences, and humanities. This research conference focused on the cultural impact of collaboration across fields, fostering an atmosphere for engaged dialogue on climate change. Bow Seat's exhibit resonated deeply here, too, as artists and scientists gathered to discuss how art, alongside scientific practices, can inspire awareness, education, and actionable solutions for a sustainable future. With 700+ attendees at the Climate Beacon Conference and a dedicated network at the UMass Boston event, we’re grateful to have showcased our talented youth artists. Through creativity and storytelling, these young voices underscore the need for all hands on deck in the fight against climate change. #ClimateBeacon2024 #ThinkingClimateChange2024 #OceanAwareness #YouthVoices #ArtForChange #InterdisciplinaryClimateAction

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: A Poetic Tribute to Puerto Rico In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we're spotlighting a powerful piece by Bow Seat alum Jay Gangadin, a We All Rise Prize winner from Maineville, Ohio. Through his poem, Jay captures the devastation Hurricane Maria left on Puerto Rico and the ongoing resilience of its people. Inspired by his mother's homeland, Jay’s words reflect the unyielding strength of Puerto Ricans as they rebuild their communities and fight for a sustainable, empowered future. In his reflection, Jay shared, “The personal connection with my mother’s homeland served as my primary inspiration. My poem focuses on the destructive path of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, where the estimated death toll surpassed 3,000. Puerto Rico has yet to fully recover, and with each storm season, the island’s vulnerable infrastructure faces new threats. The diaspora and those on the island must continue advocating for revitalization, systemic improvements, and preparedness to create a brighter future.” Jay’s work is a reminder of the importance of honoring our roots, amplifying underrepresented voices, and supporting communities in their fight for equity and resilience. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we stand in solidarity with Puerto Rico and all communities impacted by climate change. ? #HispanicHeritageMonth #BowSeatVoices #PuertoRicoStrong #YouthForClimate

Wildlife in Jeopardy: in this powerful series of artwork created by young artists, ages 11-18, who are using their creativity to raise awareness about the impact of climate change on the world's most vulnerable creatures. Through vivid depictions of endangered animals and habitats under threat, these young minds highlight the urgent need for environmental action. The art in today’s curation goes beyond aesthetics; it carries a message. The artists, inspired by their concerns for the planet, use their work to illustrate the harsh realities faced by species that once thrived in diverse ecosystems but are now at risk due to pollution, deforestation, and rising global temperatures. The emotion and depth in these pieces offer a glimpse into the urgency felt by a generation witnessing the rapid decline of our natural world. In capturing these poignant moments, the series emphasises the power of youth voices in the climate conversation. The perspectives of these young artists remind us that the future of wildlife lies in our hands and that immediate action is required to protect the beauty and biodiversity of our planet. #youthart #wildlifeday #wildlife #giraffe #dugong #elephantart #climatechangeart #climateart #climateaction #climatedecision #globalcommons #bowseat #futureblue #bowseatart #youthclimateart #artivism #ocean #oceanconservation #oceanclimate #oceanart #artvocacy