“Soaring Squadron” and the Journey of Oceanic 31: A Final Celebration of Sharks and Rays
I’ve shared about "Oceanic 31" before, but with the tour nearing its close, I wanted to take a moment to revisit the journey this exhibition has taken and the meaning behind it. "Oceanic 31" brings together the work of 31 artists, each showcasing an endangered species of shark or ray to raise awareness and funds for marine conservation. This exhibition has been traveling around the UK at various stops since the Fall of 2023. With its last stop approaching at the Royal Geographical Society in London, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on this project’s message and the upcoming For the Love of Sharks fundraiser event.
Why the Sicklefin Devil Ray?
My painting, "Soaring Squadron", celebrates the magnificent and elusive Sicklefin Devil Ray. The idea came to life from an unforgettable encounter I had while diving the WWII Japanese submarine I-169 in Chuuk Lagoon, Micronesia. This wreck dive was already deeply moving, surrounded by the sunken history of the submarine itself. But as we descended along the mooring line with the wreckage in site, I felt, rather than saw something behind us. I glanced over my shoulder and caught site of a shadow moving slowly, just at the edge of my vision. I turned fully and there behind us was a giant Sicklefin Devil Ray. It was indifferent to us and glided away with a wingspan that seemed to stretch endlessly in the clear water.
The sight of this ray, moving in such slow, graceful motion against the vast blue, felt surreal. These creatures are often called “ocean nomads” for a reason—they travel vast distances, yet they’re rarely seen. And here was one now, gliding back to the surface and away from us, the contrasting patterns on its grey-and-white belly standing out sharply against the deep blue backdrop. It was a powerful reminder that we share our planet with such incredible beings, each with its own quiet beauty and vital role in the ecosystem.
When Shark Trust UK invited me to participate in "Oceanic 31", it was not only a privilege to be included with a group of amazing artists, it felt like the perfect opportunity to honour this awe-inspiring encounter. I painted the devil rays in formation, moving in sync, reminiscent of geese flying across a vast sky. The composition is a way of connecting the rhythms of the underwater world with those we recognize on land—a reminder of the threads that connect all life.
Last stop on the exhibition tour - Fundraising For the Love of Sharks and Rays
The final leg of "Oceanic 31" will be held from November 26 to December 7, 2024 at The Pavilion, Royal Geographical Society, a venue with a legacy of exploration and adventure. This milestone will include the For the Love of Sharks event on November 29, with guest speakers, a live auction, and opportunities to connect. I’ll be attending and would love to meet others who feel passionately about marine conservation!
The venue of the exhibition at Pavilion at the Royal Geographic Society in London. Photo By Shadowssettle - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=88747115
Funds raised from this exhibit will support Shark Trust UK in their vital work to protect these species. If you’re not able to bid on an original, there are also prints available to help support the cause at any level. For more on the exhibition and how you can get involved, visit Oceanic 31 on Shark Trust’s page.
I hope this last stop can be the start of something bigger—a step toward greater protection for our ocean’s most vulnerable species. Let’s make this final event count and come together for these awe-inspiring creatures.
Thanks for reading and I invite you to follow along on social media for a behind-the-scenes look at the event, or sign up for my newsletter to get notified of a follow-up blog post with all the details from my trip to London and this event!
Grace