Kolin Hansen - Getting Salty

Website: gettingsalty.ca

Instagram: @getting_salty_

Kolin Hansen, a cold-water diver and artist from Vancouver Island, harnesses his 3D animation skills to spotlight the often-overlooked marine life of the Pacific Northwest. Certified as a scuba diver since 2012, Kolin’s artistic focus is on the unique species found in colder waters, diverging from the typical tropical subjects seen in mainstream marine art. His digitally hand-painted portraits vividly capture the essence of local marine life like rockfish, wolf eels and the giant Pacific octopus.

Kolin’s involvement in marine conservation goes beyond art. He contributes to a research team studying glass sponge reefs in Howe Sound and supports local cleanup efforts, using his art to motivate community participation. His works highlight the diversity and beauty of marine life and serve an educational purpose, raising awareness about ocean conservation through his website and social media. Kolin’s art acts as a conduit, connecting the underwater world with a global audience and encouraging deeper engagement with ocean advocacy.

Related Reading: Meet Conservation Photo Contest Winner Jenny Stock

Jaclyn Gerakios and Yasmin Greene - Fin Pin Shop

Website: finpinshop.com

Instagram: @finpinshop

Jaclyn Gerakios and Yasmin Greene, founders of Fin Pin Shop, merge their love for marine biology and art into playful, ocean-themed products. Jaclyn, a marine biology professor with experience as a scuba diving instructor and aquarist, and Yasmin, an artist with a background in biology and environmental science, design with a purpose to entertain and educate. Their products, ranging from enamel pins to stickers, feature beloved marine species adorned with clever puns and charming characters.

Twenty percent of their proceeds is donated to various marine conservation nonprofits, highlighting their commitment to the ocean. Signature items like the Greene Bean Sea Turtle sticker, inspired by a rehabilitated sea turtle, and the Sharks Older than Trees sticker, which mixes fun visuals with educational facts, exemplify their unique approach. The duo aims to foster a deeper connection with marine life and encourage environmental stewardship with each sale.

Related Reading: Meet Photo Contest Winner Pier Nirandara

Andrea Dingeldein - The Local Naturalist

Website: thelocalnaturalist.com

Instagram: @the_local_naturalist

Andrea Dingeldein, a science illustrator in the Monterey Bay, California, area, blends her passion for marine biology with her artistic ability to create engaging and educational artwork. Her diverse experiences, from Caribbean snorkeling to studying marine biology, influence her depictions of marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Andrea collaborates with scientists and conservationists to produce illustrations that support marine conservation, like her work for the Puget Sound Partnership and the White Abalone Captive Breeding Program. Her creative process starts with precise field observations, which she transforms using watercolor, colored pencil and digital media. This meticulous approach ensures vivid pieces that enchant and educate. Dedicated to marine conservation, she aims to inspire stewardship and support for environmental protection through her art. Her works are available on her website, where she also seeks partnerships to further environmental awareness.