A conceptual carousel split into two halves, one vibrant with healthy coral reefs and marine life, the other bleached and decaying. Beach scenes are above.

A carousel of life and death - tourists once circling paradise, now trapped in ecological collapse. This artefact explores the fragile interdependence between Barbados' marine ecosystem and its tourism-based economy. It metaphorically represents how both human livelihood and tourism are suspended by the health of coral reefs. On one side, vibrant materials signify the life phase: healthy coral, marine biodiversity, flourishing tourism, and economic vitality. Opposite, the bleached coral, broken textures, and fish skeleton represent the death phase: coral bleaching, fisheries collapse, tourism decline, and economic stagnation. A rusted base that reflects the deteriorating foundation of Barbados-the land and environment under threat from climate change-the artefact urges viewers to recognize that when coral dies, livelihoods collapse, and the cycle of dependency breaks. This sculpture not only raises awareness but also demonstrates recovery possibilities through its use of recycled and reclaimed materials. This artefact explores the fragile balance between life and death in Barbados' marine ecosystem. As coral reefs fade from vibrant life to skeletal remains, tourism and local livelihoods follow the same trajectory. Made using upcycled waste, the piece represents the cycle of dependence on nature, and the collapse that follows when that connection is broken. See more