In Art

Delicate Paper Corals Illuminate the Ocean’s Plastic Crisis

June 5, 2025

Franco-Croatian artist Ana Brecevic’s latest series, Plasticum, transforms recycled paper and upcycled fabrics into hauntingly beautiful representations of bleached corals and sea fans.

Adorned with baubles resembling plastic debris, these sculptures juxtapose the fragility of marine ecosystems with the pervasive threat of ocean pollution.

Through meticulous craftsmanship and sustainable materials, Brecevic’s work serves as a poignant commentary on humanity’s impact on the oceans.

It’s urging viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between nature’s beauty and environmental degradation.

See more of Brecevic’s beautiful and impactful work on her website.

Images © Copyright Ana Brecevic. Used with artist’s permission.

Close-up of a decorative coral sculpture made from recycled paper and upcycled fabrics, featuring colorful baubles that resemble plastic debris.

Intricate art piece resembling coral with delicate patterns made from recycled paper and adorned with colorful plastic-like elements, emphasizing the themes of ocean pollution and environmental fragility.

Intricate paper art resembling bleached coral with colorful baubles depicting plastic debris, presented in a framed display.

Close-up of a sculpture made from recycled materials, featuring coral-like patterns and colorful plastic elements, representing ocean pollution and marine fragility.

Close-up of an artistic representation of coral made from recycled materials, showcasing intricate designs and colorful plastic debris resembling ocean pollution.

A textured artwork depicting a coral tree made from recycled paper, adorned with colorful baubles resembling plastic debris.

An artist holding a delicate, intricately cut white sculpture resembling coral branches against a neutral background.

A detailed artwork featuring cut-out patterns resembling coral branches, crafted from recycled paper, with colorful plastic debris scattered throughout, highlighting the theme of ocean pollution.

Author Ben VanderVeen

Ben VanderVeen is the founder and editor of Moss & Fog, one of the web’s longest-running visual culture destinations. Since 2009, he’s been finding and framing the most beautiful, surprising, and thought-provoking work in art, architecture, design, and nature — reaching over 325,000 readers each month. He lives in Portland, Oregon.