In the spring of 2020, as the world entered pandemic lockdown, Cassandra Coblentz’s exhibition and publication project Transformative Currents: Art and Action in the Pacific Ocean was initiated through a grant from Getty as part of PST ART: Art & Science Collide 2024–25. The project focused on artists whose work engages with the most urgent environmental challenges facing the Pacific Ocean.

The first phase of the grant supported an extensive research process that brought together an advisory council of artists, scientists, Indigenous cultural advisors, activists, and Blue Humanities scholars, alongside curatorial advisors from Colombia, New Zealand, Alaska, and Hawai’i. They provided perspectives that deepened understanding of ocean stewardship across cultures and geographies. Across these discussions—and in dialogue with many participating artists—one idea became clear: the importance of thinking oceanically and recognizing the profound interconnectedness of life within the ocean. A strong sense of community developed among those engaged in the project, and when the exhibition concluded, many participants shared a desire to continue these conversations.

Upwell Art Lab emerged from that impulse. The organization seeks to sustain meaningful dialogue among artists, scientists, activists, and scholars while exploring how artistic practice can contribute to greater awareness of—and care for—threatened ocean ecosystems. The spirit of community that grew out of Transformative Currents remains central to Upwell Art Lab. Public programs designed to foster inclusive conversation and exchange—taking the form of salons, discussions, and interdisciplinary programs in which artists, scientists, activists, scholars, and cultural leaders share ideas—will be grounded in openness, care, and respect.

Upwell Art Lab found an ideal home at AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, where its vision was met with enthusiasm and generosity. Central to that vision is the commissioning of site-responsive artworks that engage with marine research, environmental innovation, and education and community partnerships already active on the AltaSea campus.