Reefscape

Reefscape is a series resulting from Grant Stirton’s visual exploration of our global tropical coral reefs, as he engages with an explosion of biodiversity and presents us with an enduring sense of awe for our natural world.  His work questions our view of ecological permanence, where over half a billion people rely on a resource that has been decimated by three quarters since 1950 through pollution, overfishing and climate change. 

His images center on expressing the unique character and essence of the underwater world, whilst articulating its vulnerability and need for stewardship.  Grant’s approach reflects the challenges inherent in capturing underwater environments, where he meticulously balances complex camera systems in close range of wild species and unpredictable conditions, reflective of years spent as a marine expedition guide and scuba instructor across the globe.  Ultimately, he inspires us with a kaleidoscope of beauty and diversity, but provokes an unsettling admission that our ability to thrive is often at odds with our desire to sustain ourselves.

Ice ages have come and gone.  Coral reefs have persisted.
- Silvia Earle

Each image in the series below is printed with pigment inks on archival substrate.