Oğuz Ülgen Tunç wins international art award for marine ecology project

Oğuz Ülgen Tunç, a Visual Communication Design student at Izmir University of Economics, has won first place in the Visual Arts category of the Ireland-based Global Undergraduate Awards. His winning project, titled ‘Anoxia’, is an interactive art installation that explores the ecological transformation of oceans caused by climate change and environmental pollution.

Rather than relying solely on data, the project uses jellyfish—species known for their resilience and adaptability to harsh conditions—to create a thought-provoking experience that makes the viewer part of the narrative. Tunç aims to use design to build a strong connection with people and encourage them to question their own behaviors. This marks the second consecutive year that a graduate from the university's department has secured a top prize in this international competition.