Bringing coral reefs to life through art, science and immersive experiences.
About the Project
Rescue D’ Reef is a SpeSeas science communication initiative that uses art, storytelling and immersive experiences to raise awareness about Trinidad and Tobago’s coral reefs, the threats they face, and how we can help protect them.
Launched in 2020 in collaboration with local artist Jesica Sadler, designers Levi Marcus and Travel Trinbago, the initiative began with original artwork featuring marine life, including reef fish, sea turtles and corals. Through merchandise and outreach activities, Rescue D’ Reef encourages people to rethink their relationship with the marine environment and take action to protect it.
In 2023, the initiative expanded through the Maritime Ocean Collection (MOC) Road Show, bringing Tobago’s coral reefs directly to communities. As part of the Cropper Foundation’s Today! Today! Congotay! theatrical production on climate change and small islands, SpeSeas visited Brazil and Williamsville. In 2024, the Road Show also reached schools through the Environmental Management Authority’s Environmental Club programme.
Using 360-degree underwater photography and virtual reality (VR) headsets, participants can experience Tobago’s coral reefs through an immersive virtual dive, connecting with marine environments they might otherwise never see firsthand.
Project Goals
- Raise awareness of the importance of Trinidad and Tobago’s coral reefs and the threats they face.
- Make marine science accessible and engaging through art, visual storytelling and virtual reality.
- Give communities and students opportunities to experience Tobago’s underwater world.
- Encourage ocean stewardship and inspire practical action to protect marine ecosystems.
Impact and Key Numbers
- 5 schools visited through the MOC Road Show.
- Approximately 400 participants reached through school outreach.
- 360° underwater photography offering immersive views of Tobago’s coral reefs.
- Two communities visited in 2023: Brazil and Williamsville, through the Today! Today! Congotay! programme.
Explore Further
Interested in experiencing Tobago’s coral reefs?
- Explore the Maritime Ocean Collection: maritimeoceancollection.com
- Enquire about the MOC Road Show: Email info@speseas.org to learn more about educational and outreach opportunities.
Partners and Funders
Project partner: Environmental Management Authority (EMA), Trinidad and Tobago.
Funder: Schmidt Marine.
Original Rescue D’ Reef collaborators: Jesica Sadler, Levi Marcus, Travel Trinbago and SpeSeas.
