New Species (White Powder Stain & The Royal Laundry Doncella) is part of the New Species collection by Francisco Telleria, which depicts a tragic disruption of the natural ecosystem. New Species is an artistic contribution aimed at raising awareness about plastic pollution in our oceans, depicting the negative effects of plastic waste on marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

This artwork tells the story of coral bleaching and the devastating effects of plastic pollution on marine life. The White Powder Stain & The Royal Laundry Doncella fish symbolize the plastic waste that contributes to coral bleaching, while climate change remains the leading cause.

Coral reefs are vibrant and colorful due to the microscopic algae called zooxanthellae that live within the coral, creating a mutually beneficial relationship. However, when the ocean environment changes, such as becoming too hot, the coral expels the algae and fades, resulting in coral bleaching. The plastic inhabitants of the coral reef, White Powder Stain & The Royal Laundry Doncella fish, are unaware of the danger they face from predators that can mistake plastic for prey, leading to liver function problems and the transfer of toxic contaminants to humans who consume these fish.

Through this artwork, Telleria highlights the urgent need to address the issue of plastic pollution and the impact of climate change on our oceans, which threaten the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and biodiversity.