A new exhibition in New York brings together the realms of high fashion and environmentalism.
Renowned for his work in fashion and portrait photography, climate artist Enzo Barracco transitioned to environmental activism, driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the planet.
Barracco's journey began over a decade ago when he stumbled upon a biography of explorer Ernest Shackleton, prompting him to embark on his own expeditions to Antarctica in 2016 and the Galapagos Islands in 2019.
These experiences, where he witnessed the dynamic yet delicate balance of nature, profoundly influenced his perspective and career trajectory.
Photographs captured by Barracco in Antarctica and the Galapagos Islands, both among the most imperiled regions globally, are now integrated into the meticulously arranged product displays at Prada's "epicenter" in Manhattan's Soho district. This sprawling 26,000 square-foot store, formerly the site of the Guggenheim museum's Soho branch, serves as a striking backdrop for Barracco's work.
Upon entering the expansive two-story superstore, visitors encounter Barracco's image of an Antarctic iceberg adorning the circular elevator. Adjacent to this elevator, capable of accommodating upwards of a dozen people, stands a towering 10-foot sign detailing Barracco's expeditions.
Antarctica has witnessed a decline in sea ice extent over recent years and is home to the Thwaites Glacier, ominously dubbed the "Doomsday Glacier," with the potential to elevate global sea levels by approximately 10 feet if fully melted. A study in Nature Climate Change suggests it might be too late to halt the onset of melting in West Antarctica.
Similarly, the Galapagos Islands, like numerous island nations, confront threats beyond rising sea levels. Escalating temperatures pose risks to the delicate equilibrium of the islands' ecosystems, renowned for their unparalleled biodiversity.
Reflecting on his Antarctic journey, Barracco recalls being immediately struck by the vast expanse and seemingly endless ice, likening the experience to setting foot on another planet.
Encountering an owl in the Galapagos, Barracco marveled at the species' resilience and ability to adapt to disparate environments.
Barracco's journeys transformed his perspective on the significance of environmental preservation efforts.
"Experiencing places like Antarctica or the Galapagos inevitably alters your mindset," he remarked.
In his capacity as a climate artist, Barracco has garnered an Emmy nomination, authored a book titled "The Noise of Ice: Antarctica," and is currently engaged in writing another book focused on the Galapagos Islands.
Embedded within the pristine showcases of footwear, bags, and apparel are Barracco's photographs capturing the essence of these threatened locales. His imagery portrays landscapes and indigenous species amidst their struggle for survival.
Barracco holds a special affinity for a photograph he captured of a glacier with a distinctive shape. Upon sharing it with researchers from Cambridge University, they remarked on the glacier's struggle for survival. According to Barracco, as the iceberg melts, it loses its equilibrium and begins to rotate into the water.
The exhibition featuring Barracco's work is part of Prada's Sea Beyond ocean conservation initiative, conducted in collaboration with UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission. This partnership underscores Prada Group's acknowledgment that safeguarding a healthy planet necessitates proactive measures to preserve nature, especially given the fashion industry's significant impact on biodiversity loss, notably through the production, processing, and sourcing of various raw materials.
Barracco staunchly asserts that it is the duty of every individual to take action in conserving the natural world.
Barracco emphasized the potency of photography, stating to ABC News that visual media requires no translation, making it an ideal means to convey the current state of nature.
"I believe it's the perfect medium to illustrate what nature is undergoing in the present moment."
His works were on display at the Prada shop at 575 Broadway until 27 May.
