“Growing up by the beach, surfing, and exploring the California coast, I developed a deep connection with ocean life. Witnessing a precious sea turtle in Hawaii was a transformative experience. Learning about the human-induced threats to sea turtles, such as bycatch in fishing gear, vessel strikes, habitat destruction, poaching, and the illegal wildlife trade, alongside the alarming disappearance of kelp forests and its impact on marine life, deepened my determination. This drove me to design this gown, capturing the natural beauty of our ocean life while amplifying their story, and urging everyone to protect our oceans and the incredible life they support.”
— Azi Sharif, Executive Director of Wildlife Jewels™
Introducing the Wildlife Jewels Oceans Gems™ Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle Gown!
This extraordinary creation is born from an enchanting encounter with a majestic green sea turtle in Hawaii and is deeply inspired by the poignant story of kelp, purple sea urchins, and sunflower sea stars, shedding light on the alarming state of our oceans. This stunning gown is designed to showcase the enchanting beauty of marine life while shedding light on the threats they face due to human activities. It is an integral component of the Wildlife Jewels® educational fine art program and is featured at diverse conservation events and art gallery exhibitions.
The Story:
California's Kelp forests are vanishing, affecting over 800 marine species and even endangering gray whales and their young, who seek refuge in these underwater havens. Kelp, a versatile algae, holds potential as biofuel and even aids in reducing methane emissions from cows. However, pollution, overfishing, and a devastating marine heatwave have led to a drastic 75% reduction in Southern California's kelp, disrupting the entire ecosystem.
Sunflower sea stars, the natural predators of purple sea urchins, have dwindled due to the sea star wasting disease, making way for the unchecked proliferation of these urchins, which now devour the remaining kelp. This imbalance threatens marine life and underscores the urgent need for preservation efforts.
The Gown:
The Oceans Gems Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle Gown, a testament to nature's beauty and fragility, mirrors the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of sea life. Crafted from eco-sustainable materials like English cotton bobbinet and organic cotton satin, it features meticulous appliqué work, capturing the essence of purple sea urchins, sunflower sea stars, and the green sea turtle. Its design pays homage to the grace of ocean kelp, serving as both a visual masterpiece and a wearable work of art.
The Fine Art:
The artist initially painted the “Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle”, “Purple Sea Urchin”, and “Sunflower Sea Star” with bold colors and intricate details on canvas before transforming the artwork into applique to adorn the gown.
This gown stands not just as a symbol of elegance but as a call to action. Through its intricate beauty, it amplifies the urgent plea to protect our oceans and the invaluable marine life residing within them.
Story of The
Oceans Gems™ Gown!
Vanishing Kelp forests, sunflower wasting disease, green sea turtles and purple sea urchins.
Meet our Gems!
-
![Oceans Gems™ Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle]()
Oceans Gems™ Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle
Meet the inspiration behind our “Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle” Collection. Discover the magical world of Sea Turtles, and learn about the human-caused threats they are facing .
-
![Oceans Gems™ Amethyst the Purple Sea Urchin]()
Oceans Gems™ Amethyst the Purple Sea Urchin
Meet the inspiration behind our “Amethyst the Purple Sea Urchin” Collection. Discover the fascinating world of Sea urchins, and learn about the human-caused threats they are facing .
-
![Oceans Gems™ Citrine Quartz the Sunflower Seastar]()
Oceans Gems™ Citrine Quartz the Sunflower Seastar
Meet the inspiration behind our “Citrine Quartz the Sunflower Seastar Collection. Discover the magnificent world of Seastars, and learn about the human-caused threats they are facing .
Exhibitions
Join us as we showcase our Wildlife Jewels™ Collection of fine art and exquisite fashion pieces at select galleries and events specifically designed to raise awareness for precious wildlife and the threats they are facing from human activities.
Events & Outreach
Explore our dynamic educational & outreach programs featuring workshops, webinars, newsletters, art showcases, fashion shows, presentations, and community engagement, all dedicated to wildlife conservation awareness.