Martin Colognoli
Photographer of Water / Marine Biologist
Art, Science & Commitment
Biography
Photographer of water and marine biologist, I combine art and science to raise awareness of the preservation of aquatic ecosystems and freshwater resources. I founded the NGO Coral Guardian in 2012, aiming to protect coral reefs by involving local communities, particularly traditional fishermen. After more than 15 years working on the preservation of tropical corals, I turned to the protection of freshwater resources and Mediterranean ecosystems, focusing on projects from France.
My approach is based on a fusion of art and science. As a marine biologist, I draw on my knowledge to translate complex concepts into visual works. My creations combine photography and painting, addressing two main themes: coral, nature's miracle and a symbol of biodiversity, and freshwater, an essential source of life for terrestrial creatures, now threatened by human activity.
Do you have a project? Don't hesitate to contact me.
My journey
Born on the French Mediterranean coast, my fascination with aquatic environments led me to study hydrology, marine ecology and tropical coral reefs. My career began in Indonesia, where I ran a marine animal export business before realizing the destructive impact of this activity. This prompted me to redirect my work towards the protection of reef ecosystems, by founding Coral Guardian.
My artistic approach
I see photography as a powerful vehicle for raising awareness of the issues involved in preserving life. My work is imbued with my experiences in the field and my scientific expertise. I draw my inspiration from nature, scientific visuals and the fundamental link between humans and living things. My creations, printed on media such as brushed aluminum, often include pictorial elements that reinforce the message, with each work accompanied by a scientific summary to inform while touching emotionally.
Objectives
Through my projects, I seek to provoke deep reflection on the way we inhabit this planet. Humanity is facing an unprecedented crisis - the collapse of biodiversity and climate change are having a direct impact on all forms of life. My works are a call to action, combining emotion and reason, to remind us that we have a central role to play in protecting our environment and the biodiversity on which we depend.
Artistic and scientific inspirations
My vision is nourished by a constant dialogue between art and science.
On the artistic side, Ernst Haeckel had a profound impact on me with his ability to depict the organic and symmetrical beauty of life. His paintings of corals and jellyfish celebrate natural complexity.
Using a human and documentary approach, Sebastião Salgado, Sabine Weiss, and Hans Silvester inspire me with their way of exploring and highlighting the interactions between humans and their environment. Their works place water, natural elements, and biodiversity at the heart of powerful and engaging visual narratives.
On the scientific front, Charlie Veron, an Australian pioneer in the study of corals, helped me understand the fascinating diversity of these organisms. Nicknamed "the father of coral," he identified more than 20% of the species known to date. His writings shed essential light on the complexity of reefs. I am also greatly inspired by Professor Denis Allemand, former scientific director of the Monaco Scientific Center, who explores the biology and genetics of corals as well as their adaptation mechanisms in the face of global warming. Ove Hoegh-Guldberg's work on coral bleaching, as well as the commitment of Sylvia Earle, a renowned oceanographer and passionate defender of the oceans, reinforce my conviction that science and art can combine to raise awareness about the preservation of our aquatic heritage.