"Coming from a farm and ranch background in the desert of New Mexico, I quickly learned to value water. I had the privilege to see the ocean for the first time when I was about 23, and since then, my appreciation of natural resources significantly increased. Being a respectful steward to the Earth and understanding that its beauty relies on our upkeep and stewardship is critical.

When I migrated to LA and found myself closer to the oceans, I also found myself realizing how much a populated area can affect the ocean’s delicate ecosystem. Being an artist has allowed me to travel the world and see the bodies of water that cover it. It’s heartbreaking to see how some of our oceans aren’t treated with the same care as others. PangeaSeed Foundation has done an amazing job of connecting and educating thousands of people by joining facts about our ocean’s needs with artistic expression to spread awareness.

The issue of maintaining the oceans is important to me, so I was thrilled to team up and share my print of “The Octopus.” Octopuses are highly intelligent animals, known for their ability to adapt to their environment. Many have been known to use resources available to them, such as coconut shells, to build little houses for themselves. When needing to take quick cover or blend in, octopuses can camouflage themselves. These two facts alone drive home that these amazing animals have taught themselves how to survive in their ecosystems as they are. Therefore, we need to help protect it. After all, most of these guys have three hearts. The least we could do is use our one." - Drew Merritt

 

Artist Bio 

Drew Merritt grew up on a cattle farm in New Mexico where whenever he wasn’t working on the ranch, he was painting. With no artistic training, Merritt found himself experimenting with graffiti, street art, and portraiture until he found his own niche. It wasn’t until he moved to Los Angeles that he realized he could “make it” painting both murals and oil paintings in his similar romanticized, renaissance inspired style. Merritt is interested in showcasing flaws, whether it be physical, emotional, or environmental in his paintings, and unbeknownst to many, his realistic portraitures tap into his own exploration of empathy and personal relationships.