Loreto is a passionate ocean advocate. From her work as a marine biologist to her gorgeous illustrations of sea creatures, she strives to protect marine wildlife and raise awareness of the issues they’re facing. Most of her artwork is inspired by the ocean and its inhabitants and allows her to advocate for the ocean even when she’s not in or near it!
Keep reading for more on her journey as an ocean advocate and to learn more about what inspires her …
If you were an animal what would you be?
Probably a humpback whale, one of my favorite marine animals. I’d love to swim with them one day and hear them sing. They’re such amazing creatures !
What is your favourite thing to do in your spare time?
Drawing, specially drawing marine animals. I’ve always enjoyed drawing, ever since I was a little girl, but now drawing has become an important part of my life. Keeps me relaxed and also connected to the ocean when I’m not diving. I’ve also found that it’s a great way to educate people about marine biology and lesser known species.
What is your first memory / experience of the ocean?
When I was little I lived in Madrid, away from the ocean, but from a very early age our family started going to the beach for the summer holidays. Everything felt so different from the city! The sand, the waves, the sea shells, the sun… I got hooked!
How did you get interested in sustainability / eco living and / or the ocean?
Because I was fascinated about the ocean I decided to study marine biology to learn more about it. I wanted to learn about each species, about the beauty of the marine ecosystem, but I also learnt about human threats and plastic pollution which was a bit overwhelming at first. However, then I realised I had the power to do something about it and started to reduce my plastic waste and fish consumption.
Also, during a holiday trip to Costa Rica, I saw some nesting sea turtles and decided to do my best to protect them. In the coming years I collaborated in several sea turtle conservation projects which was extremely interesting and fulfilling!
What do you find hardest about advocating for the ocean and / or sustainability?
Helping people understand that everything is connected and every species is important. For example, sharks get a bad reputation in many countries, but they are absolutely essential to the health of our oceans!
INSERT Loreto in whale shark suit
What is your favourite place to visit?
The Caribbean. I love its rich biodiversity and calm warm waters!
Where do you want to travel next and why?
I would also love to explore Asia, which will probably take me many years as it is filled with really interesting diving spots!!!
What keeps you motivated and inspired?
Other people’s ideas and achievements. Thanks to social media it’s now easier than ever to be a part of something bigger, a community, and seeing what other people are doing to protect our oceans, seeing that we are all in this together fills me with hope and joy. Many small actions in the right direction can have a huge impact in the world.
What advice would you give someone reading this who wants to start helping the ocean?
Don’t ever think you’re too small to make a difference. Start doing some changes, whenever and wherever you can, and you will soon realize that your actions and your words have more impact than you think. This will keep you motivated to keep going!
Any upcoming projects / activities / causes you want to shout out?
I regularly update my Etsy store to share and sell my ocean-inspired drawings which is something I’m deeply proud and excited about. Recently I’ve added stickers and tattoos permissions to the site too!
Check out Loreto’s Insta pages for the latest on her ocean inspired illustrations @lorcroft_art and her diving account for some stunning underwater shots @lorcroft_scuba