Mateusz Pospiech | Illustrator | Poland | Vietnam
Polish illustrator, Mateusz Pośpiech, has been an advocate for change since a young age, where his mother claims that he’d tend to loudly point out random people for littering, innocently embarrassing the culprits.
Mateusz spends his free time contributing to ocean conversation efforts by using illustration to educate people on the serious topic of environmental injustice. Although his work looks colourful and fun, he portrays the deeper, important message that ocean conservation is a subject not to be taken lightly, and he hopes to inspire others, particularly younger generations, by educating them.
“I honestly believe that most people just don’t realize how serious environmental situation is, and they start caring once properly informed. Conservation through education, all the way!”
What is a typical day like for you?
My 'day-job' is being an architect, so I spend most of the day in the office, designing, supervising and writing a ton of e-mails. Then finally in the evening I can sit down and focus on my passion project - Fresh 'n Salty, illustrating marine life and ocean phenomena to add my two pennies into the worldwide efforts of education and raising awareness.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
My mother tells me that the concept of keeping trash to yourself has been somehow deeply engrained in me and certainly evolved into the environmental sensitivity I currently have. When it comes to my own memory… I would spend hours reading encyclopaedias and tracing maps, creating my own 'professional' tour itineraries - being a tour guide was perhaps my earliest dream job. I've always wanted to travel, so as soon as I gained some resemblance of financial independence... my savings had a very clear purpose. I have no doubts that exploring different places and meeting new people gave me a whole new perspective on life, and led me to a big jump across the planet, to live and work in Vietnam, where I am at the moment.
What/who currently inspires you?
The community of marine biologists, divers and animal lovers built around Fresh 'n Salty has been providing me with continuous inspiration and motivation for further work everyday.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
I followed my degree - Architecture & Urban Planning, rather briefly working as an architect in Poland. In 2016 I moved to Vietnam, a booming, impressive market with huge potential for construction works. It's here in South-East Asia, where I discovered diving and the unparalleled sites of Coral Triangle and got hooked!
When did you first pick up a camera and start shooting underwater?
Quite frankly...I never did! As much as I appreciate fantastic underwater photography, I've always preferred to focus on diving itself. Being in the moment, aware of the surrounding beauty, without too much equipment slowing me down!
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
I honestly believe that most people just don't realize how serious environmental situation is, and they start caring once properly informed. Conservation through education, all the way!
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?
National Geographic and Animal Planet certainly have been a part of my childhood, with iconic characters such as late Steve Irvin, Jeff Corwin and David Attenborough. Their pure, warm-hearted fascination with nature has left a big impression on me for the rest of my life. Most recently, just like probably everyone else, I've been absolutely mind-blown by the stunning visuals and stories put together for Blue Planet II. It's the worldwide series like these are needed to turn the world around!
What legacy do you hope to leave?
I'd love to know that someone has refused shark fin soup, picked plastic alternative or read a label on the product, because my work somehow sparked their interest and changed their mind just a little bit.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
I think it's all about the right balance in your message. These days it's very easy to be branded as 'extremist', scaring some of your potential audience. So even when talking about some very serious subjects, I find a little bit of humor goes a long way. There are two sides to every story, so always keep an open mind and avoid being judgmental. Keeping the audience broad, while staying true to the message is a difficult, but the best formula.
