Sculpture by the Sea: Q&A with Marina Debris

Sculpture by the Sea is one of Sydney’s most loved events, stretching along the glorious Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk and featuring more than 100 sculptures by artists from far and wide.

Free to the public, eager art bingers can get their dose of art and nature at the same time, while adding in some incidental exercise….

We were lucky enough to catch up with US-born, Coogee-based artist Marina Debris, who has some intriguing works featured in this year’s event.

SR: You are a US native now residing in Bondi * – what differences have you experienced in your work from working on the LA beaches to working in Bondi?
MD: I lived in Bondi in the late 90’s and don’t recall seeing much trash washed up on the beach. Of course coming from NYC, Bondi was heaven to me so I wasn’t that switched on to the issue. When I moved to Venice Beach, I couldn’t help but notice a constant onslaught of trash that washed up.
Moving back to the eastern suburbs just over 2 years ago, I thought for sure I would be out of materials! Much to my dismay, that has not been the case at all.

SR: How did you begin working with waste materials to inspire your pieces?
MD: As mentioned above, it was when I moved to Los Angeles. It took me about 9 years to actually start making art from detritus. It really came out of learning about the issue, working with groups like 5 Gyres & Heal the Bay. My main inspiration stems from learning how our waste effects marine life.

SR: What can we expect from your work at this year’s Sculptures by the Sea?
MD: A whole lot of washed up trash!

SR: What messages do you want people to take away from your work?
MD: Hopefully people will begin to think about our habits or “convenience”. We need to eliminate the amount of waste we are creating on a global & massive scale. The plastic genie cannot be put back in the bottle at this stage so the onus is on humans to “leave no trace”.

SR: Considering you are now a Coogee local – what are some of your favourite local haunts?
MD: I try to shop & eat ethically. When I go out to eat, (which is rare!) It’s usually to a restaurant that caters to or offers Vegan options. Soul Burger in Randwick is probably one of my favourites. I also love the U-Turn on Hall st, Iggy’s bread and Maya Sweets (Surry Hills). I know there are a lot of options in Bondi I’ve yet to explore! But the truth is, there is so much thrown out on the streets that a good amount of my “shopping” is done that way!

SR: Lastly, If you weren’t an artist, what would you be doing?
MD: No doubt I would be a hoarder.

If you’re wanting to enjoy the celebration of art, with a QT twist, check out our Sculptures Experience.

interview by sophie rennard