Filipino artists lead ocean conservation exhibit at ART CAPITAL in Paris

The recently concluded ART CAPITAL exhibition at the Grand Palais in Paris drew over 50,000 visitors, showcasing diverse artistic expressions from around the world. Among the highlights was EAU La La! ART for Life in the Ocean, a collaborative exhibit advocating for ocean conservation.

Led by Filipino artists Margo Calderero-Le Lain and H.E. Junever Mahilum-West, the exhibition aligned with the United Nations Oceans Conference in Nice, highlighting the urgent need to protect marine biodiversity. Ten international artists, including Calderero-Le Lain and Mahilum-West, used various art forms to depict the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems.

Calderero-Le Lain presented three new works exploring humanity’s connection with the sea, while Mahilum-West paid tribute to Japanese fish painter Kumataro Ito through her fish-inspired pieces. They were joined by artists from different backgrounds, including Singapore, France, the UK, and Italy, each contributing unique perspectives on ocean conservation.

The exhibit was more than an artistic showcase—it was a call to action. Through their works, the artists urged viewers to reflect on the importance of protecting the oceans, reinforcing the role of art in environmental advocacy.