Silent Pollution and the Aesthetics of Ecological Absence: Artistic Responses to Subtle Environmental Disappearance

Abstract

The environmental crisis of the 21st century has brought to the fore the existential questions of human civilization. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution—these three interconnected processes are rapidly transforming the Earth’s ecosystems. This study goes beyond conventional visibility to explore an environmental reality that is silent, slow, and almost invisible. The concept of “Silent Pollution” is used as an important analytical framework in this context. It refers to a type of pollution that is not immediately visible, but has profound long-term effects. While this pollution may not create an immediate crisis, it gradually increases the fragility of life and ultimately leads to a widespread ecological absence. At the center of this study is a symbolic image—a small, fragile, almost invisible life representative of environmental change. The emphasis here is not on any specific species; rather, a generalized bio-image is used that serves as a symbol for the subtle levels of ecological balance. The research is based on a practice-based approach, where artistic practice and theoretical analysis work together. The medium of watercolor was chosen as the main tool for this research because it’s physical properties—fluidity, transparency, and uncontrollability—are deeply related to the concept of environmental change.