Plastic Pollution Expert to Speak at Unlikely Universes Exhibition

As part of Ann Tracy's Unlikely Universes exhibition at the Oak St. Lofts Gallery, 72 Oak St., (between Congress and Cumberland Sts.), Portland Maine, Dr. Charles Rolsky, of the Shaw Institute in Blue Hill Maine will present "Plastics VS. People" on Saturday, Oct 24 at 4 pm. The Shaw Institute is a nonprofit, scientific research organization based in Blue Hill, Maine. This event is free and open to the public.

The complexities of our relationship with plastic will be explored in an engaging discussion led by plastic pollution expert, Rolsky. He will cut through the confusion, separating the facts from the fiction surrounding the widespread use of this material. Rolsky will address critical issues, including the threats posed by microplastic pollution to environmental and human health, and the deceptive practices of "greenwashing." Join us for insights that offer hope for a more sustainable future.

"It almost seems alchemical to take photographs of microplastic tainted waste water from painting to transform it into beautiful images," said Tracy. "I hope the message of this series will make people think of how we ALL need to pick up after ourselves as humans. Especially if we are using plastic products. At least when I'm working digitally, I'm not introducing microplastics into eventual waterways. These narratives I've created can also be read as the freedom to dream and create the world we want to live in. How can we create change to make our world better?"

The Shaw Institute is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3), established in 1990 by ecotoxicologist Dr. Susan Shaw. The institute is dedicated to connecting environmental health with human health through rigorous science, national collaboration, and deep community engagement. (https://shawinstitute.org/)

Tracy is a founding member of the Midcoast/Downeast Group of Union of Maine Artists (UMVA) as well as having served on board of directors for UMVA, Beyond the Proscenium Productions and the El Dorado Arts Council. She is also a member of the Maine Art Collective, Monotype Guild of New England, Professional Women Photographers (NY) and the Saco Public Arts Commission. Read about her recent exploits here: https://anntracy.substack.com