A UNIVERSITY graduate from the city will have some of their work presented at a prestigious exhibition in London.

Jess O’Neill, a 22 year old photography graduate from Brighton University, will see some of her artwork featured at Photo London at Somerset House in Strand.

The event brings the finest international photography to the capital each year, with the best historic and vintage works, while also spotlighting fresh perspectives in photography.

One of her self portraits, Saturating and Sinking deeper - from her series titled ‘Calamities-Plastic and Fauna’ - will be presented as part of the art show.

The Argus: Jess' artwork, Saturating and Sinking deeper, aims to spark a conversation around microplastics: Image: copyright and courtesy Jessica A O'Neill, Brighton University graduateJess' artwork, Saturating and Sinking deeper, aims to spark a conversation around microplastics: Image: copyright and courtesy Jessica A O'Neill, Brighton University graduate

Jess said: “This is a total honour, and I am incredibly excited to be part of such a remarkable, prestigious event.”

Her piece aims to reveal a narrative around the issue of microplastics found in the ocean, which scientists have revealed have now been found in human organs.

Jess explained she was inspired by articles and research around microplastics, as well as pollution she saw on Brighton’s seafront while a student in the city.

She said: “I love sea swimming and one morning I got my foot stuck in something. I freaked out a bit and when I looked it was a plastic bag. I felt that was so sad.

“I researched loads of stories about microplastic parties and the statistics are insane for how much they’re in the ocean, and how they affect different animals both on land and at sea.

“It’s a terrifying thing, as plastic lasts forever and never fully decomposes.”

With her work, she hopes to inspire a greater conversation about the severity of the microplastics problem.

“One of the reasons I create is to educate people and I hope this will help change our environmental behaviours.

She also expressed her gratitude to her lecturers and technicians from her course at university for getting her artwork featured and for providing much needed support, especially during her studies in the pandemic.

Jess, like thousands of others, will actually be seeing her piece properly for the first time in the exhibit.

“I’ve seen the test strips from the printers in London, but I haven’t actually seen the final piece. I’m really excited and it’s going to be really surreal.”

People can see Jess’ artwork and others at the exhibition at Somerset House from September 9 to 12, with a preview taking place today (September 8).

Eighty-eight galleries from 15 countries will be taking part in the sixth edition of the show.

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