The diverse intersection of art and science at the Research Station highlights the broad expression of creativity inspired by this unique place and program.

“Sushi for the Grandkids was made from marine debris gathered offshore Santa Rosa Island. Some of the debris gathered can be traced all the way to China and South East Asia. Parts of it also include trash I found around my home that was probably bound to end up in the ocean.” The reason behind the title is based on estimations that by 2050 there will be more plastic than marine life in the oceans. I figured by that time most people my age group will be grandparents who would want to share popular sea food like sushi with their grandkids.”

– Jose Galvan Martinez

“Through these pieces, I wanted to convey the idea of a collective consciousness between all living beings and how that itself is a grounding interconnectedness much bigger than we may fully understand.”

– Maria Zuarte

“As we reflected on our past adventure on Santa Rosa and our ambitions to travel to the beaches of New Zealand one day, I was overcome with a feeling of impermanence. That at one point or another, we would have to have our last adventure together. That profound knowing of such a basic and universal truth made that moment extremely emotional and brought upon an incredible sense of gratitude for the present moment.”

– Evan Liu

“The quiet space between the trees afforded me the opportunity to contemplate the passage of time, life, death, decay, and renewal in a way that is difficult to do when on the mainland. That intense experience left an indelible impression.”

– Patricia Keller

“The Santa Rosa Island marine debris cleanups with the CSUCI art department engage critical thinking of ecosystem health, past, present, and future habits and enrich creativity through thinking of objects outside of their utility and purpose.”

– Karly Kennedy

“Thank you to SRIRS for graciously donating marine debris collected from the islands, we are able to continue our journey together promoting a cleaner ocean.”

– Lynn Dodge

“SRIRS allowed me to find the reflection I was searching for and contrary to my goal of abstraction a realism I never felt before. I was able to produce images that when finished allowed me to ask questions of my own personal impact on the environment around me and perhaps more importantly what I can do to contribute to the world underneath my feet. My sense of place in the world was redefined after visiting Santa Rosa Island.”

– Ryan Yablow