Prada turned the spotlight from the runway to the ocean, bringing the Possible Conversations series to the Aoyama Epicenter. Environmental photographer Enzo Barracco and ocean advocates posed a critical question: how can art, science, and fashion drive action to save our seas?
This Tokyo edition of Possible Conversations centered on SEA BEYOND, Prada’s collaboration with UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission. Launched in 2019, the initiative aims to raise awareness about sustainability and protect marine ecosystems. Joining Barracco were Francesca Santoro, Senior Program Officer at UNESCO-IOC, and Meghan Marrero and Joanna Philippoff from the National Marine Educators Association. They discussed how art and education can connect people to ocean conservation and inspire meaningful action.
Ichthyologist SAKANA-KUN contributed a video message, emphasizing shared responsibility for ocean preservation. “Photographic art is one of the most impactful tools to nurture knowledge and spark change,” said Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group’s Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, reflecting on the power of creativity in raising awareness.
Barracco’s photographs captured the beauty and fragility of Hawaii’s biodiversity, drawing from his book The Blue on Fire, Hawai’i. His work stood as a reminder of what’s at stake. Named a “SEA BEYONDer” for his commitment to ocean preservation, Barracco said, “I hope my work reminds people it’s time to give back and fall in love with the ocean again. We are all marine animals; we just forgot.”
Santoro highlighted the importance of storytelling in advocacy: “Every photograph tells a story, and the ocean has countless stories waiting to be told. These narratives inspire change and encourage sustainable practices.”
Prada also announced an expansion of SEA BEYOND’s educational programs. After helping 16 schools in the Tri-State area become “Blue Schools,” the initiative will now include 10 schools in Hawaii, fostering ocean literacy and empowering young people to protect marine ecosystems.
By blending art, science, and education, Possible Conversations showed that the fight for the ocean’s future is ongoing. Prada’s Tokyo event served as a call to action, reminding us that real change begins with the conversations we have today.
