.jpg "Cyrill Gutsch: interview with the founder of Parley")
This year, our Global Open Call, titled ‘Tree of Life: a Love letter to Nature’ centers on the theme of human and nature’s interconnection. In much of the Western world, there’s a noticeable drift from nature, often placing ourselves above it, a mindset that has contributed significantly to the environmental crises we encounter today. In contrast, Indigenous communities have always shown a deep reverence for nature, presenting an alternative viewpoint. They perceive humans as integral elements of nature’s web, promoting a life in harmony rather than dominance. Their wisdom lights the way towards genuine sustainability and mutual respect. The theme for this year acts as a thoughtful nudge to reconsider our bond with the natural realm. The Tree of Life stands as a symbol of our interconnectedness with the environment, underscoring the profound links that connect us with our planet. Embracing this theme, we seek to alter the prevailing narrative. It involves recognising our non-superiority to nature and understanding that exploiting our environment is not just erroneous but unsustainable. Through the artworks and narratives contributed to this open call, we aim to foster a shift towards more empathetic, respectful, and sustainable engagements with our surroundings.
Partnering with Parley, a leading global environmental organisation, was a natural progression for us. Parley has established itself as a collaborative network that brings together creatives, environmental specialists, and thinkers all dedicated to the conservation of our oceans. Their primary mission revolves around repurposing human-made materials, transforming them into both functional and aesthetically pleasing products. This goal is supported by a broad environmental education initiative that bridges educators, experts, and the youth. Additionally, their art program focuses on leveraging creativity to highlight environmental issues, alongside partnerships with researchers and scientists aimed at pioneering new materials and conservation methods for the oceans and their ecosystems.
In conversations with Cyrill Gutsch, the founder of Parley, we delved into the organization’s objectives, his aspirations for the future, the hurdles they face, and how their collaboration with PhotoVogue aligns with and enhances our mutual goals.
Cyrill, could you share the story behind the founding of Parley for the Oceans and what personally motivated you to focus on the protection of our oceans?
Parley started 12 years ago in a meeting with Captain Paul Watson of Sea Shepherd. He was arrested in Germany, and I was there visiting. We met, we spoke, and I learned that the legacy of my generation could be that we leave behind a dead sea. That was such a shock, especially since nobody was discussing it. That same day we turned our design firm into an environmental organization and impact network, what is now Parley for the Oceans.