scuba-inspired hawksbill jacket

Fabric programmed in Point Carre and woven on a 54" wide jacquard loom.

This garment was created for a public exhibition co-sponsored by Creature Conserve, and International Fund for Animal Welfare. The design draws upon information concerning poaching and tourism on declining Hawksbilll Turtle populations.

While poaching remains a key threat to Hawksbill Turtle populations, often overlooked are the consequences of tourism. Over the decades, tourism has experienced unrelenting diversification to become one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world. Over one million new recreational scuba divers are trained each year. Though diving promotes greater awareness of marine life, overuse of dive sites contribute to disruption of nesting sites and feeding grounds. To combat these effects, tourism models have emerged that encourage local researchers to work with tourists to monitor and collect sea turtle data. Eager to assist with beach visits, egg monitoring, and hatchling release, tourists become engaged in conservation on an intellectual and emotional level. This jacquard fabric’s long weft-floats, tropical colors, undulating surface patterns, and scuba-inspired silhouette reflect the life and habitat of the Hawksbill Turtle.