At Scarborough Harbour, discover internationally acclaimed artist Paul Morrison’s artwork Sea Oak. This sculpture, inspired by the form of Fucus vesiculosus, commonly known as bladderwrack, celebrates an ecologically vital seaweed species native to the UK.
Crafted from water-jet cut stainless steel, the highly polished artwork stands overlooking the North Sea. Its reflective surface mirrors both the changing conditions of the sea and sky, as well as the viewer, perhaps causing us to reflect upon our interdependence with nature.
Seaweed has the potential to be an important part of the fight against climate change because it grows fast, taking up carbon and oxygenating seawater. It also functions as an important habitat for marine life.
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Paul Morrison’s sculpture Sea Oak photographed at Scarborough harbour© Richard Ponter -
Sea Oak, Paul Morrison with Launch Crowd Richard Ponter for Invisible Dust 2024© Richard Ponter -
Sea Oak by Paul Morrison© Richard Ponter -
Sea Oak by Paul Morrison stands on Scarborough Harbour© Richard Ponter
Created by Yorkshire-based artist Paul Morrison, whose work often refers to modified found imagery from botanical photography and illustrations, Sea Oak not only draws inspiration from seaweed but also the visual connection to the health of our lungs and the air we breathe. Absorbing CO2 more effectively than trees, seaweed improves water quality by extracting harmful substances such as excess nitrogen from the sea, helping the local and global environment. This sculpture functions both as a striking work of art and also as a reminder that the health of the planet above and below the waterline is all interconnected.
Listen to Social Broadcasts: Sea Oak
Seaweed, often overlooked and underestimated, holds profound secrets beneath the waves—secrets that have fascinated scientists, artists, and conservationists alike. In this audio journey, we dive into the world of marine algae with experts like Dr. Jane Pottas and Professor Juliet Brodie, who reveal the stunning beauty and ecological significance of these underwater treasures. From the herbarium at the Natural History Museum to coastal Scarborough’s art installations, discover how seaweed inspires innovation, challenges perceptions, and connects us deeply to our natural world. Prepare to see seaweed in a whole new light.
Read a transcript of the audio piece here
Created by Social Broadcasts. Listen to more audio tracks here.
