Annabella Thorne advocating through ART

‘Magnificently talented’ – this is how Annabella Thorne is described by her colleagues.  The budding designer has mastered the ability to string together her ability to create works of art, to her activism against environmental degradation.  Her talents are diverse, from costume design to paintings; natural materials are often delightfully presented in her works of art, making her an exemplar to young people. She notes that art, although aesthetically pleasing, can be a medium to present sensitive issues and be a vehicle to creatively educate persons about solutions. So from where does Thorne’s inspiration stem? “From my love of Trinidad and Tobago and its nature,” she said. It is this patriotic affection that propelled the youngster into being selected as an Environmental Management Authority’s Youth Ambassador (EMA YA). She proudly values all the opportunities given to her through the EMA YA. Two pieces of Thorne’s original artwork are being featured in EMA’s annual calendar and all of her environmental creations are being showcased at several Environmental Forums.

 

‘OMG - Orient My Generation’ a one of a kind youth environmental concert, recently hosted by the EMA YA, was Thorne’s last project. By heading a team of vibrant, young people, she had taken on the challenge of chief designer, constructing a magnificent spectrum of colourful costumes for every character in the concert. The performances entailed a lot of folklore hence many local mythical creatures were staged at the event. In an interview, the designer spoke passionately about Mother Nature’s costume. She said, “This piece in particular was intentionally given designs to powerfully and persuasively impact the audience into becoming more environmentally sensitive.” Seeing each costume through an artistic eye, Thorne emphasises that the environment goes hand in hand with our everyday living and it is this concept which is sewn into her works of art, especially those that were completed for the concert. In her hope to motivate others, the charming Thorne added, “Always keep practicing, be inspired by, and make your own artistic twist of nature’s work. More youths ought to be encouraged into using their talents to advocate for positive change, such as being environmentally friendly.” Search ‘EMA Youth Ambassadors’ on Facebook for more information.