‘Symbiosis’ Exhibition Reveals Human Impact on Fragile Ocean Ecosystems
A powerful new exhibition opening in January 2026 will confront viewers with the stark realities of climate change’s impact on coastal communities and marine life, offering a “visual call to action” according to organizers. The exhibition, titled Symbiosis, features the work of Italian documentary photographer Giacomo d’Orlando and will be hosted by The Current, a center for contemporary art in Stowe, Vermont.
A Visual Investigation of Interdependence
The exhibition is the culmination of extensive field research conducted across Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Australia. D’Orlando’s project meticulously documents the transformation of marine environments, analyzing how environmental degradation is reshaping both the natural world and the socio-economic structures of communities reliant on the ocean. The work focuses specifically on the vulnerabilities faced by artisanal fishers and indigenous peoples, groups who bear a disproportionate burden from a crisis they contributed least to.
“This work is intended to provoke reflection on collective responsibility and the need to redress the balance between human activity and marine health,” stated a senior official at The Current.
Blending Technique to Amplify Impact
D’Orlando’s approach is notable for its technical diversity. He skillfully combines traditional documentary photography – utilizing full-frame cameras and fixed focal length lenses – with striking aerial photography and intimate underwater photography. This multifaceted methodology allows for a shifting perspective, juxtaposing the breathtaking beauty of marine ecosystems with the precarious existence of their inhabitants. The resulting images bring into focus communities and locations often overlooked in mainstream environmental discussions.
The Human Cost of a Changing Climate
The exhibition highlights the devastating consequences of a warming planet, including sea level rise, coastal erosion, and accelerating biodiversity loss. These changes are not abstract threats; they are actively dismantling the livelihoods and cultural heritage of coastal populations. D’Orlando’s work serves as a poignant reminder that the climate crisis is fundamentally a human crisis, with the most vulnerable communities facing the most severe repercussions.
The Current, dedicated to promoting civic engagement through visual practice, views Symbiosis as a crucial component of its mission to address defining contemporary issues. The exhibition will be on view from January 15 to April 10, 2026, at 90 Pond Street in Stowe, Vermont.
