Young North Devon artists inspired to step up and help save the oceans

Two young artists have stepped up to use their talents to help the planet, one brush stroke at a time.

Secondary school students Poppy Fellows and Ted Child have turned their creativity into activism and advocacy after taking part in the Ocean Explorer Academy, a nature and climate education programme delivered by local charity Earth Action North Devon (EAND).

Both aged 12-years-old, Pilton student Poppy and Ilfracombe student Ted have been working hard to raise awareness of climate and environmental issues, influencing their schools’ policy and even sharing their art at a sold-out UN World Oceans Day event, run by the North Devon Biosphere at the Museum of British Surfing in Braunton.

From this December their work will also be exhibited at the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon.

It reflects the personal impact of their Ocean Explorer journey and experience. For example, Ted’s vibrant and fun illustrations spotlight the plight of his favourite marine animals.

He said: “One hundred million sharks are killed by humans every year. I want to help stop this. I find sharks fascinating and would like to learn to dive, so I can maybe see them up close one day.

“My message for the future is very clear – save our oceans.” Ted donates a portion of his art sale proceeds to The Shark Trust.

Above: Ted Child from Ilfracombe creates fun drawings to highlight the threats to sharks in the world’s oceans due to human greed. Credit: EAND

Poppy’s bold mixed-media pieces, incorporating plastic waste collected during beach cleans, deliver a sobering message about pollution and consumerism.

“Plastic is choking the sea, which produces more than half the oxygen we breathe,” said Poppy.

“So if it chokes the sea, it chokes us.”

Her work also focuses on the beauty of nature: “It’s a wonderful world out there. The biggest thing we’ve forgotten, I think, is that we are very much a part of nature as well. I want to show the peaceful beauty and life that we can all fall in love with.” 

Above: Artwork by Poppy Fellows from Barnstaple is inspired by the sea and nature but often incorporates plastic waste collected during beach cleans. Credit: EAND

The Ocean Explorer Academy offers students a six-week immersive experience that blends environmental learning, personal development, and creative expression.

But it doesn’t end in the classroom and students are encouraged to take action in their own communities. For example, after learning about ethical consumerism, Poppy successfully persuaded her school, Pilton Community College, to ditch online shopping vouchers in favour of ones that support the local high street.

Libby Bowles, education coordinator at EAND, said: “The Ocean Explorer Academy immerses students in nature and climate education with profound personal, social and academic effects.

“Poppy and Ted have not only used their artistic talents to raise awareness and funds for causes they care about, but they’ve also helped inspire real changes in their schools.

“This is the heart of what we do – empowering young people to become confident, informed and passionate change-makers.”

With demand for the Ocean explorer Academy sessions growing, the charity would love to hear from any local businesses or organisations that would like to help support the next wave of young environmental leaders.

Sponsorship is vital to keep it going and it is a chance for organisations to support local youth, environmental education and changes communities. Sponsors will be credited across EAND materials and exhibitions.

To support the programme or request a sponsor pack, please email info@earthactionnorthdevon.org.