‘HOMO SARGASSUM’ opens at United Nations, spotlighting ocean pollution

The United Nations Headquarters in New York is now home to HOMO SARGASSUM, an immersive contemporary art and science exhibition designed to raise awareness about ocean pollution, especially the growing threat of sargassum seaweed.

- Advertisement -
Taste of the Caribbean 728x90

Open from May 16 to July 11, the exhibition is curated by Vanessa Selk, director of the TOUT-MONDE Art Foundation and former diplomat to the UN.

First showcased at the Museum of Fine Arts at Florida State University, HOMO SARGASSUM now takes center stage at the UN in celebration of World Ocean Month and in alignment with the upcoming 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference, which will be co-hosted by France and Costa Rica in Nice from June 9 to 13. The exhibition urges visitors to reflect on Sustainable Development Goal 14: “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.”

“It is not merely symbolic to present this contemporary art exhibition at the United Nations rather than in a Museum. It is essential today to keep our critical thinking and conversations about our human responsibility in environmental disasters,” said Selk. “Instead of using words and diplomacy at the General Assembly or the Security Council of the United Nations, I now use art to speak up on certain issues, with the support of artists who are similarly concerned.”

Through multisensory experiences, HOMO SARGASSUM explores the widespread environmental, economic, and health impacts of sargassum seaweed that has inundated Atlantic and Caribbean shores since 2011. The exhibition features more than 20 artists from the Caribbean and beyond, including notable names such as Edouard Duval-Carrié, Minia Biabiany, and Alejandro Durán. Highlights include Durán’s large-scale installation crafted from recycled plastic collected on Mexican beaches and a seaweed-based alternative leather dress created by design duo Felder Felder.

The exhibition is part of a broader, multi-year program that includes films, artist residencies, publications, and symposia. It is endorsed by the Permanent Missions of France and Barbados to the United Nations and supported by institutions including the Winthrop-King Institute, Villa Albertine, and Rubis Mécénat.

Broward-Cricket-Banner-728x90

Public programs include guided tours and artist talks scheduled for May 22 with Billy Gerard Frank and Alejandro Durán, and May 29 with Deborah Jack. Both events are free but require pre-registration.

Admission to the exhibition is free and open to the public with a valid ID and online registration. More information is available at www.tout-monde-foundation.org.

More Stories

patriotic apparel

Why patriotic apparel is becoming a staple in everyday street style

Patriotic clothing has become a staple of many people’s ensembles. Hardly a day goes by without spotting someone rocking it in a flag-themed hoodie...
Veronica Campbell Brown

The Right Fit: Veronica Campbell Brown champions wellness in role as Hi5 5K Ambassador

It was simply the right fit — a decision thoughtfully made by the businesslike, eight-time Olympic medalist Veronica Campbell Brown to partner with and...
Caribbean beauty boom

Exploring the beauty boom in the Caribbean

The Caribbean beauty industry is no longer playing catch-up. It’s leading with confidence, culture, and color. With the regional beauty and personal care market forecasted...
876 South

Jamaican men find their style at 876 South

Men’s fashion in Jamaica is often underrepresented in the apparel industry, even though accessibility for women is constantly growing. A walk through any major...
fenty beauty Rihanna Jamaica

Fenty Beauty confirms Jamaica launch with exclusive rollout in April

Jamaican beauty lovers, the wait is over—Fenty Beauty is officially coming to the island. Rihanna’s globally acclaimed beauty brand announced today that its products...
fine dining Florida

Top 10 Florida cities for fine dining this Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, Florida emerges as a prime destination for luxury dining, offering a wealth of fine dining options for visitors and...
Stay healthy this Thanksgiving by following Food Safety Tips and Guidelines

Stay healthy this Thanksgiving by following Food Safety Tips and Guidelines

During the Thanksgiving season, parties, family dinners, and other gatherings often involve plenty of food, but this festive cheer can quickly turn into discomfort...
Dunn’s River adding rustic dining to adventure

Dunn’s River adding rustic dining to adventure

Jamaica’s Urban Development Corporation, UDC says they will be developing a two-storey restaurant and bar that seats over 150 patrons at Dunn’s River Park...
Father's Day

Top gift ideas for Father’s Day

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s time to celebrate the dads in our lives with gifts that show our appreciation for...
Jamaica wedding

Unity in Love: Jamaicans in the diaspora join forces with locals for a dream wedding in homeland

On May 11th, 2024, the picturesque island of Jamaica served as the perfect backdrop for the wedding of Ms. Suen Shaw, a healthcare executive...

Latest Articles

Skip to content