Collaboration with Jason deCaires Taylor
Artist: Jason deCaires Taylor | Creative production: Marcela Terán, Greenpeace UK
Plasticide is a collaboration between underwater sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor and Greenpeace UK, whose paths were joined by a mutual passion and determination to protect our magnificent oceans from the threat of plastic pollution.
The sculpture was conceived by Jason deCaires Taylor specifically for a non-violent direct action that would launch Greenpeace's campaign calling on Coca-Cola to stop choking our oceans.
The sculpture seeks to bring home the stark impact plastic pollution is having on our oceans and marine life. It is a visceral forewarning of the consequences of our age of throwaway plastic and a rallying cry to companies, government and policymakers to urgently work together to turn around this catastrophe.
Reflecting the distinctive style and political nature of Jason’s underwater installations, the sculpture weighs two and a half tonnes and features life-size human figures, including a cast of the artist’s daughter. It also incorporates recovered ocean plastics.
The sculpture was first installed outside the National Theatre in London, facing the river Thames, where it was viewed and experienced by thousands.
We then installed Plasticide on the front door of Coca-Cola's HQ in London, where it fulfilled its mission. Bridging the worlds of arts and activism, this sculpted blockade confronted Coca-Cola with their responsibility for their plastic footprint.
This action also served as the launch of a world-wide Greenpeace campaign that has led to Coca-Cola making some important commitments on plastics.
