Welcome to our Artist Residency Alumni page, a space dedicated to celebrating the incredible talent, creativity, and vision of the artists who have taken part in our residency program. Moku Art Studio, in partnership with MANGO, proudly presents the Ocean Virtual Artist Residency, uniting art and ocean advocacy in a unique creative journey.
Each artist has brought their unique perspective, passion, and dedication to exploring the deep connection between art and the ocean. Their work has contributed to a growing conversation about sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the vital importance of preserving our marine ecosystems.
We’ve chosen to display the artists on a map to highlight the global impact of ocean conservation. This format underscores how ocean protection is a universal issue, with international artists actively contributing to this vital cause. It visually reinforces the interconnectedness of our planet and the collective efforts to protect our oceans.
The Ocean Virtual Art Residency experience was both grounding and transformative for me. The flexibility of the virtual format made it feel more approachable than a traditional residency program, especially as a parent, but what truly stood out the most was the depth of connection fostered by the organizers. Frieda and Mercedes created a space where artists didn’t just work alongside one another—we built real relationships. This program also helped me reflect more deeply on my own connection to the ocean and offered moments of healing I didn’t expect. You don’t have to have it all figured out to benefit from this experience; just bring your curiosity, your creative voice, and a willingness to explore and grow.
Connie Lee Lynch
I was initially drawn to the residency because of the enormous potential that cross-disciplinary collaborations between art and science can have in the field of ocean conservancy. In practice, I found the relationships between the participants transformative to my art practice. Frieda and Mercedes facilitated a comfortable, inclusive but creatively challenging environment that kept the group engaged in conversation and experimentation. I hope the program can continue to run for years to come so that we can all work in concert, each from our own perspective—and populate that world map of participants!
Una Janicijevic
When searching for residency programs, I normally try to find opportunities that will advance my creative thinking and allow time to expand a focused body of work. Oftentimes the residency periods are solitary and reflective allowing for a deep dive into the self creative process balanced with pursuing elusive concepts while expanding artistic philosophy. Selected for the Ocean Residency 2024 presented a unique opportunity for creative self growth amplified by open interaction with other artist and Residency hosts. The format of the residency was remote, conducted through weekly free flowing Zoom meetings fitting my creative process and busy schedule. Although remote, I became very close, comfortable and connected to the residency group. The collective group creativity and unique conversational dialogue greatly influenced my process and resulting artwork. Well organized topics developed into effective visuals and inspirational progress. The group of selected artists were well curated each bringing new ideas and barrier breaking ideas to artistic life.
Dodd Holsapple
The residency created a dynamic atmosphere of community. I had several aha-moments in my creative process that came from the conversations and sharing of information with both the residency organizers and the other artists. I love the way my work came together for the exhibition and also being a witness to how other’s work came together. We influenced and inspired one another in unexpected ways and our exhibition reflects that dynamic in a wonderful way.
Kirsten Carlson
The Oceans Residency was a breath of fresh air! I met dynamic artists, I learned about ocean conservation, and I created award-winning art that has been on display in two galleries. Additionally, the Residency allowed me to be more informed as a conservationist, an artist, and a human. I am grateful for the friendships and the instruction that I established and received during my Fellowship. I look forward to continuing my sea-related studies!
Van G. Garrett
This art residency has been such an amazing experience. It’s my first time participating in a residency, and I felt so comfortable and welcomed from day one. It’s been incredible to connect with other artists who share the same appreciation for both art and the ocean. The support and guidance throughout every step of the residency were truly helpful. I highly recommend giving yourself the chance to live and learn from this kind of experience 100%. What I enjoyed the most was meeting other artists, building new connections, and gaining a deeper understanding of the ocean. I’m so thankful I got to be part of this!
Kelly Perez
The rapport and bonds formed among the artists during the last residency were subtly, yet profoundly, reflected in our music and video. The ocean is a symphony of nature that never stops playing. In it, We feel the rhythm created by the waves and the breath of life. The waves sound like a piano, the wind like strings, and the songs of whales like the breathing of woodwinds. This experience made us a small messenger who tells the story of the ocean through music. We write these sounds into scores and wish to carry the voice of the sea through music.
Art Farm LK
This project was an experience that went beyond just art for me. It led me to deeply contemplate the ocean, whales, and the value of life. It was a precious time of self-reflection, as an artist, on what I should express and what responsibilities I hold, and it allowed me to transform in new ways.
Bass Baritone Byeonghee KIM
This project has become a profound opportunity to deepen our understanding of the intimate relationship between the ocean and humanity. As human beings have evolved and pursued increasingly convenient ways of life over millennia, we have come to realize the profound impact these choices have on the sea. Witnessing the deterioration of marine life and the wounded beauty of nature has brought us great sorrow. As artists, we hope that through music, we can awaken a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s value and inspire people to reflect on what must be done to preserve it for future generations. It is our hope that our art not only raises awareness but also evokes a sense of urgency to care for and protect the ocean before it is too late.
Cellist Kyungmi Anna LEE
Through this project, i aimed to reinterpret ocean and environmental issues from a new perspective. I hope these small steps become a catalyst for moving towards a better future.
Violinist Jueun KIM
Art that communicates through sound and movement closely resembles nature, and we saw that humans are merely a small part of nature's vastness. It was a valuable time that reminded us once again of the critical need to live with constant awareness of the crises humans have caused and the suffering lives endure because of them.
Actress Jeong SEO
Music, through its lyrics and instrumental melodies, creates a compelling voice. This made me reflect on how proactive my artistic actions have been.
