Microscopic Organism-Inspired Outdoor Sculptures
Randi Renate Debuts Are We Psychic Coral-Polyps?
Kalin Ned — May 6, 2026
Environmental artist Randi Renate unveiled a monumental outdoor sculpture titled 'Are we psychic coral-polyps?' at the Parrish Art Museum. This large-scale architectural environment was modeled after the microscopic organisms that form coral reef systems.
Randi Renate's 'Are we psychic coral-polyps?' structure features curved walls and scalloped seating that invite visitors to gather, reflect, and confront the crisis of marine plastic pollution. This sustainably constructed installation draws from the artist's firsthand scuba diving experiences with scientists studying threatened reefs. The sculpture arrives at a moment when marine plastic is projected to outweigh all fish in the ocean by 2050, with microplastics now found throughout marine ecosystems and within the human body.
Randi Renate's installation is featured in 'Regeneration: Long Island’s History of Ecological Art and Care,' part of the nationalUSA250: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness initiative.
