Ubiquitous: Microplastics in Our Bodies

An Immersive Installation by Tracy Penn

Ubiquitous was created to bring attention to the proliferation of microplastics in the human body. Microplastics are everywhere: in the air we breathe, in the food we eat, in the clothes we wear, in our homes, and in our bodies.

When entering the installation, the viewer will see sculptures suspended from the ceiling, and grouped in piles on the floor, as well as sculptures and paintings hung on the walls. As one moves through the installation they will have the experience of being fully encompassed by the work, to further raise their consciousness about the pervasiveness of microplastics in our bodies.

The viewer will come to learn about the harmful effects that the oil and packaged goods industries have on the environment through the creation and distribution of single-use plastics. In addition, they will learn of research which shows that microplastics have been found in major organs of human beings and the chemicals that leach from plastic have been tied to serious diseases.

The installation features over 200 microplastics sculptures, created with wire mesh and plaster bandages. The pieces are filled with discarded plastic on the inside and textured with encaustic paint and upcycled plastic on the outside. Each piece is lozenge shaped to represent how microplastics look under a microscope. In addition, there are 20 paintings created with encaustic and upcycled plastic, which provide contrast to the creamy white sculptures.

Ubiquitous was created by Tracy Penn, an environmentally conscious artist who showcases the beauty that can be created from unwanted materials. She hopes to inspire others to think more consciously about the need to reduce the creation and consumption of plastic.

Tracy believes that art has the power to spark conversations and drive change. She is dedicated to using her talent and passion to raise awareness about the harmful effects that our dependence on single-use-plastic is having on the environment and our bodies.

The goal of Ubiquitous is to inspire the viewer to be part of the solution to reduce the creation and consumption of single use plastic and the microplastics which are created when they break down.

The installation has been created with materials and processes that have a low impact on the environment.