In a world where environmental concerns weigh heavier each day, art continues to emerge not only as a mirror of reality but also as a catalyst for transformation. One such meaningful and innovative endeavor comes from Jesno Jackson, an internationally acclaimed curator and artist, who sets sail on a mission for marine conservation through a groundbreaking project titled “Brushes for the Blue.”
Inspired by SDG 14: Life Below Water, Jesno’s concept harnesses the expressive power of art to advocate for marine protection, plastic-free living, and sustainability, key pillars in preserving our fragile blue planet.
The Symbolism of the Sailboat
The centerpiece of this unique exhibition is a series of handcrafted wooden sailboat sculptures, each artistically painted by a group of dedicated artists. The sailboats, far more than decorative pieces, are chosen intentionally for their symbolism. They represent a journey, an odyssey through awareness, consciousness, and change.
“Just as a sailboat navigates the sea, humanity too must chart a thoughtful course through the environmental crises we face,” says Jesno Jackson. “These boats are visual ambassadors, vessels of hope, reminding us to protect what lies beneath the surface.” Each sailboat artwork vividly portrays marine life, whales breaching, dolphins dancing, turtles gliding, jellyfish drifting, interwoven with undercurrents of distress caused by plastic waste and human neglect. The result is a breathtaking convergence of beauty, urgency, and message.
Plastic-Free July: Launching the Initiative
The project was launched in alignment with Plastic-Free July, a global movement encouraging people to reduce single-use plastic. By integrating this initiative with visual storytelling, Jesno with a group of 16 international artists, created an immersive experience that highlights the consequences of pollution while celebrating the vibrancy of marine biodiversity. These sculptures are more than static exhibits, they’re interactive narratives, meant to inspire viewers to reflect, respond, and reform their habits. The event was hosted at Mehromah Art House Dubai.
Art for SDGs: Beyond Aesthetics
Art4you Gallery's project seamlessly integrates United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into contemporary art practice. Specifically addressing SDG 14, this campaign underscores the need to protect aquatic ecosystems, reduce marine debris, and support sustainable ocean practices.
By turning wood into waves of creativity, Jesno and her artist team use art to convey complex environmental themes in an accessible and emotionally resonant manner. This form of eco-art becomes a universal language, breaking barriers, building bridges, and stirring action across communities.
A Collective Voice for the Ocean
What makes this project especially powerful is its collaborative spirit. Artists from diverse backgrounds brought their own styles and sensibilities to each sailboat, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives on ocean life. Their contributions amplify a collective voice, one that speaks for the sea creatures who cannot advocate for themselves. Each sculpture tells a different story. Some celebrate untouched marine ecosystems, while others lament the silent suffering caused by plastic, oil spills, and climate change. Yet, all of them point toward hope, healing, and harmony.
Roya Vahidi, Thomas Antony, Jaimee Felysse, Nataliia Venerova, Fatimeh Habibollah, Nithin Umesh, Jeevan Proolu Veettil, Parisa Keramati, Jesno Jackson, Reem Al Subiae, Avigyan Bhattacharya, Mana Razeghi, Dahana Salem, Kumar Chadayamangalam, Naseem Abdo Othman, and Noreen Nawab were the participating artists who painted live on wooden boats.
The event welcomed a distinguished panel of guests includingAhmed Al Heifeiti, Founder of Wadi Dafta Plantation in Fujairah; Claudia Pinto, Sustainability Advocate and Founder of Empowering Women Middle East; Dr. Heike Lieb-Wilson, Business Strategist and President of Rotary Eco Club Dubai; Bouchra Izaabel, Holistic Health Visionary; and Muhammad Yusuf, Gulf Today Feature Writer. Their presence highlighted the critical intersection between art, sustainability, and community engagement.
Art4you Gallery’s Commitment
Art4you Gallery continues to be a beacon for purpose-driven art, bridging the gap between culture and conscience. This project stands as a testament to the gallery’s mission to champion global issues through creativity and innovation. The eco event is part of Art4you’s larger vision to support community engagement, environmental education, and sustainable dialogue through multidisciplinary art events, workshops, and public awareness campaigns.
The Road (or Sea) Ahead
“Sailing Toward Sustainability” is not just a one-time live art, it is a movement in motion. Plans are underway to take these sailboat sculptures on a traveling tour, hosting eco-art pop-ups, interactive workshops for youth, and partnerships with marine conservation organizations.
Art4you Gallery’s vision is clear: let art not only decorate our world but also defend it. Through this poetic fleet of sailboats, she invites us all to be sailors of change, charting a new course toward environmental harmony.
Let’s sail together, toward awareness, action, and a cleaner tomorrow.