Inspirations

True Tales for Ocean Rebels

True Tales for Ocean Rebels is an illustrated children's book project that transforms ocean science into emotionally engaging stories. Through narrative journeys rooted in oceanography, marine ecosystems, and ocean governance, the Tales invite young readers to experience the ocean not only as an ecosystem, but as a shared global space shaped by human responsibility.

The project builds on the idea of Blue Citizenship — understanding the ocean as a global commons that connects people across borders and generations. By combining scientific knowledge with imagination, the stories foster empathy, curiosity, and a sense of agency in shaping sustainable ocean futures.

At a time when scientific reports often struggle to reach wider audiences, Tales for Ocean Rebels explores how storytelling can create access where facts alone fall short. The project is designed for children as emerging young ocean stewards, while also engaging parents, educators, and readers as co-learners. By translating complex ocean processes into relatable narratives, it strengthens emotional connection as a foundation for awareness and action.

Developed in dialogue with ocean scientists, the project merges literary storytelling with research-based visual practice. You can explore a first glimpse into the book: True Tales for Ocean Rebels.

Marika Hellmund (visual artist) and Nina Dietz (author) work as an interdisciplinary duo at the intersection of storytelling, science, and culture. As EU Young Ocean Advocates and recipients of the MakeEUBlue Award (European Commission, 2024), their work combines ocean literacy, democratic imagination, and artistic practice.

Nina’s practice bridges ocean governance, youth participation, and artistic storytelling. Drawing on her background in political science and international institutions, she develops narrative and educational formats — including the Young Citizens’ Council for the Ocean and the Blue Citizen Curriculum — that translate complex scientific and policy knowledge into cultural and participatory experiences. Marika’s artistic practice combines fine arts, sustainability research, and conceptual image-making. Her work is grounded in ecological systems thinking and material awareness, developing visual narratives that translate scientific processes into immersive and emotionally resonant imagery.

Follow the project: Instagram

For collaborations and inquiries: youthcouncil@beabluecitizen.eu

…More Inspirational Works coming soon…