German graffiti crew 1UP just made the world’s first-ever artwork using live coral. Located at the Nusa Penida Island off Bali, the piece consists of a 3d installation in the shape of the group’s signature tag which serves as an artificial coral reef and encourages coral growth.
The anonymous Berlin-based crew made the artwork after they were invited to the Seawalls festival for a separate exhibition. While there, they knew they wanted to do something to help protect the local environment, and thus the artwork was conceived.
In the last 30 years, the earth has lost roughly 50 percent of all coral reefs, which are essential to the sea’s ecosystem. Scientists estimate that by 2050, 90 percent of corals will have died due to human impact, meaning it’s likely that coral reefs will be wiped out in our lifetime, unless changes are made.
1UP hopes their work will draw attention to the fate of coral reefs, and encourage people to actively participate in protecting marine life. To find out more about coral reefs and get involved, head to Coral Guardian.
