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On May 17, the Oregon Coast Aquarium unveiled Washed Ashore, a temporary exhibit featuring larger-than-life sculptures inspired by marine creatures and the threats they face. Each sculpture is made entirely of debris collected from ocean beaches, with the goal of raising awareness about plastic pollution.
The Aquarium hosted Washed Ashore once before in 2010. Since then, Washed Ashore has processed over 50 tons of plastic from Pacific Northwest beaches, bringing the global marine debris crisis into the spotlight through art. To celebrate the exhibit’s 15th anniversary, the Aquarium displayed 15 sculptures, including Flash the Marlin, Greta the Great White Shark, and other unique pieces, including a brand new sculpture, Udo the blue ringed octopus.
Washed Ashore left the Oregon Coast Aquarium on January 5th, 2026.
Since opening in 1992, the Oregon Coast Aquarium has been a premier attraction on Oregon’s central coast and an enduring advocate for the health of our ocean. For over three decades this 501(c)3 non-profit organization has supported marine wildlife and fostered environmental stewardship through its education programs, community partnerships, and rehabilitation efforts. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 aquariums in the U.S., providing visitors with opportunities to connect with 15,000 animals spanning 300 different species. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located at 2820 S.E. Ferry Slip Rd., Newport, OR. Learn more about the Oregon Coast Aquarium and its vital work at aquarium.org, 541-867-3474. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter for the latest updates.
