Multidisciplinary Artist, Visual Storyteller and Documentary Photographer Harvey Castro is the Edge of Humanity Magazine contributor of this documentary photography. From the series ‘Red Tide’. To see Harvey’s body of work, click on any image.

My series, Red Tide, captures the devastating impact of environmental change on marine life through a visual representation of the algal bloom in Lake Merritt, Oakland, California, on August 5, 2022. The photos, taken between August 14 and September 5, 2022, document the progression of the Heterosigma akashiwo sub-variant algae, which absorbs significant oxygen levels in the water as it feeds and grows, ultimately triggering an apocalyptic marine life die-off just two weeks later.

The experts concluded that one of the critical factors contributing to this catastrophe is the high levels of nutrients in San Francisco Bay, one of the nation’s most nutrient-polluted bodies of water. This event is a powerful reminder of the urgent need for action to address the pressing issues of water pollution and preserve marine life.

Through his powerful and evocative imagery, Castro encourages viewers to consider how climate change impacts us. He invites us to join him in working towards solutions and building a more just and inclusive world. Based in Oakland, California, Castro continues to use his art to advocate for social change and raise awareness of critical contemporary issues.

Bio

Harvey Castro is a multidisciplinary artist, visual storyteller, and documentary photographer who employs a variety of mediums, including still and moving images, audio recordings, and historical content, to delve into the complex relationship between climate change and immigration, identity, diversity, and inclusion.

His work is deeply personal, drawing inspiration from his experiences as an immigrant and person of color, distinguished by its authenticity and genuine connection with the subjects he photographs. In his art, Castro captures candid, intimate moments that reveal the emotions, thoughts, and feelings of those he photographs, depicting their struggles with adversity and exclusion and moments of joy and camaraderie within their communities.

All images and text © Harvey Castro