Artist Natalia Kapchuk’s latest project, The Lost Animals, emerges as a needed response to one of the most pressing crises of our time: the alarming decline and impending extinction of the planet’s critically endangered species. As both an artist and eco-activist, Kapchuk uses her craft to shines a spotlight on the urgent plight of these creatures, many of which reside on The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List.
This project serves as a poignant call to action, with each sculpture in the series represents a unique species, advocating for their protection and conservation. Kapchuk’s work is informed by years of meticulous research into the habitats and life histories of these endangered marine species. Her dedication is evident in the intricate craftsmanship of each piece, which employs materials such as recycled fiberglass using flocking techniques and finishes with hand detailing and electroplating.
Vividly crafted, Kapchuk’s sculptures capture the fascinating beauty and fragility of the selected species, emotionally underscoring the severe threats posed by human activities—such as commercial fishing, poaching, and pollution. These threats contribute to the degradation of marine ecosystems and the broader environmental crisis, highlighting the interconnectedness of all life on Earth.
In Kapchuk’s own words: “The diversity, beauty, grace, and mystery of our planet’s marine life have deeply inspired me. Sadly, many species face drastic population declines and potential extinction, primarily due to human activities. Through The Lost Animals series, I aim to confront these critical threats, awakening viewers to the profound and heartbreaking realities facing our planet’s wildlife and fostering a greater commitment to conservation and protection.”
The sculptures presented in this impactful series feature vulnerable species such as the Blue Whale, Great Hammerhead, Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Spinetail Devil Ray, Spotted Seahorse, Green Humphead Parrotfish, Great White Shark, Killer Whale, and Sunflower Starfish. Through this collection, Kapchuk highlights the immediate risks facing these species and calls for collective action to prevent their extinction, preserving the delicate balance of Earth’s marine ecosystems.
The Lost Animals stands as a profound personal manifesto by Artist Natalia Kapchuk, transforming the precarious situation of each endangered species into a visual and emotional experience that challenges us all to confront and address the environmental crises affecting our planet.
The Sand Makers – Desert Rose, 2023
Mixed Media Sculpture
Recycled Fiberglass, Electroplating Chameleon Chrome
100 x 55 x 15.5 cm
From Natalia Kapchuk's The Lost Animals series, The Sand Makers sculptures celebrate the Green Humphead Parrotfish, a crucial yet endangered species in our marine ecosystems. The sculptures are crafted using mixed media, including recycled fiberglass, electroplating, and eco-friendly acrylic techniques, vividly capturing the importance of this remarkable fish.
The Green Humphead Parrotfish is the largest of its kind, growing up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) in length and weighing as much as 75 kilograms (165 pounds). These fish play a crucial role in coral reef health through bioerosion. They graze on unhealthy corals, stimulating reef growth, and generating up to 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of white sand annually. This sand contributes to the formation of pristine beaches, such as those in the Caribbean.
Despite their critical role, Green Humphead Parrotfish populations are declining steeply. Once listed as a Species of Concern by NOAA/NMFS in 2004, they are now classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Major threats include overfishing driven by exotic marine fishing tourism, the demand for their meat as a delicacy, and habitat destruction from climate change and pollution.
Kapchuk's sculptures reflect the profound connection between the Green Humphead Parrotfish and the ecosystems it supports. Through her use of recycled materials, Kapchuk symbolizes the cyclical process of destruction and renewal that this species contributes to. The artwork not only highlights the fish's vital role in maintaining healthy coral reefs and beautiful sandy beaches but also underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts.