Plastic pollution depicted in modern scrimshaw at New Bedford Whaling Museum

Artist Duke Riley transforms ocean plastic into modern scrimshaw, highlighting industrial pollution in a new exhibit at the New Bedford Whaling Museum.

Ben Berke reports for The Public's Radio.

In short:

• Duke Riley uses discarded plastic to create contemporary scrimshaw, depicting environmental degradation.
• A new exhibit at the New Bedford Whaling Museum features Riley’s work, including a piece showcasing local pollution history.
• Traditional scrimshaw, historically carved from whalebone, is reimagined through Riley's modern, environmentally conscious art.

Key quote:

“Human beings have always been on this path to extract what we can from the environment around us for financial gain, oftentimes without a mind to the kind of environmental costs that come along with that sort of industry.”

— Naomi Slipp, chief curator, New Bedford Whaling Museum

Why this matters:

Duke Riley's work doesn't just highlight the problem; it encourages us to confront the consequences of our actions. His art serves as a reminder of the fragility of our environment and the ongoing consequences of industrial pollution. Read more: Plastic pollution in the ocean.