In a vibrant collision of art and advocacy, the Australian National Maritime Museum has unveiled a stunning mural that beckons us to the forefront of ocean protection. Painted by local artist InkHunter, the mural named "Shallow Iridescence" doesn't just grace the museum's entrance; it serves as an unmissable call to arms, urging us to prioritise the health of our oceans for the sake of our planet and future generations.

Entitled "Shallow Iridescence," the mural stands as a visual embodiment of the museum's commitment to ocean health and sustainability. Beyond its aesthetic allure, it seeks to cultivate a sense of shared responsibility, nudging us to consider the reverberations of our actions on the environment. As a proud signatory to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, the museum understands the power of art in conveying a poignant message of ocean science to our community.

Positioned at the museum's entrance, the mural is ingeniously designed to be perceived from various vantage points, each revealing distinct elements of its intricate composition. From the bustling Pyrmont Bridge, the mural's entirety comes into view, an awe-inspiring sight that unifies the message it carries.

InkHunter, the artist behind this masterpiece, artfully conveys the notion that countless imperceptible components harmonise to shape the bigger picture of oceanic health. It's a reminder that every small endeavour, each act of conservation, accumulates to influence the grander narrative of our oceans' preservation.

Patrick Hunter, known as InkHunter, emphasises, "The natural world is not a place we just visit. It is our home, it is where we came from, and we should be proud of how we leave it." His intention goes beyond surface impressions; he aims to captivate onlookers' curiosity, urging them to explore the mural's depths and, in doing so, sparking contemplation on the issues it represents.

The collaborative essence of this mural comes alive through the collective contributions of various individuals, including Museum First Nations curator Tyson Frigo. The images, symbols, and themes that intersect within the mural form a poignant call to communities, imploring us to prioritise ocean health, address overfishing, and uphold environmental sustainability. This compelling message transcends local resonance, extending its reach to a broader national and international concern.

A central image within the mural - a blue-ringed octopus - unveils its message with urgency. Ensnared in nets, the octopus serves as an emblematic warning, shedding light on the perils of shark nets and overfishing. The inspiration behind this portrayal stems from the legacy of Valerie Taylor, a renowned advocate for ocean conservation.

But this mural is more than just an artistic endeavour; it's a clarion call for action. InkHunter asserts, "Caring for the ocean and the environment is part of being a good person. I want people of all ages to think about the ocean that surrounds us and be more aware of taking care of it."

Patrick Hunter, or InkHunter, is not just an artist; he is a guardian of the environment. Rooted in Sydney, his connection to ocean conservation is deeply personal. With a lifetime spent in the water as a surf lifesaver, sustainable fisherman, freediver, and SCUBA diver, he embodies his beliefs. The evolution of his art has mirrored his growing concern for the environment, and through his works, he seeks to inspire the community to embrace sustainable choices.

"Shallow Iridescence" doesn't merely decorate a wall - it communicates a profound message. It's a vivid reminder that our oceans are more than just bodies of water; they're intricate ecosystems deserving of our protection. As we stroll by this remarkable mural in Kiama, may it ignite a spark within us to stand as guardians of the sea, to uphold the pledge of ocean health, and to leave an enduring legacy for the generations to come.