Hold Fast - an Underwater Forest is inspired by the kelp forests found growing in many oceans around globe. Many of the kelp forests, which support a huge range of marine life and are vital nursery grounds for fish, are threatened by overshing and dumping of sediment. Kelp forests play an important role in capturing carbon, helping to purify our oceans and environment and help to reduce climate change. The health benefits of seaweed are known throughout the world.

The Underwater Forest installation is designed with rows of seaweed hanging down from the ceiling to represent the underwater kelp forests. The starting position of the seaweed will be at 1.8 metres or 6’ from the ground to represent the anticipated sea level rise. As the seaweed dries out the seaweed will create an organic sculptural art form that will change daily throughout the installation. The visitor will be able to smell the seaweed throughout the installation.

The Uprooted II loveseat, inspired by seaweed, represents how our natural and manmade environments are uprooted by natural and manmade disasters. The seat will be displayed as part of the installation.