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!
