Aquaria of the Plastocene is a collection of real (and imagined) aquariums. But instead of being filled with marine life, they are filled with discarded single-use plastic, which is coated with genuine gold leaf to draw attention to the plastic, and to examine the idea of value. Each aquarium tells a unique story about plastic pollution. These aquaria are surrounded by large ocean paintings and drawings to juxtapose our different values — peace, nature, convenience, and money. What do we really treasure most? What does our culture of convenience actually cost us?

My intention with this series is to create artworks that increase mindfulness about our plastic use, and inspire us to look at the challenge in a creative way.