As we debut Cristina Mittermeier’s powerful work at Sun Valley Contemporary, we had the honour of speaking with the pioneering conservation photographer about the deeper purpose behind her imagery. Cristina’s photographs go beyond visual beauty—they are acts of storytelling, advocacy, and hope.
In this thoughtful conversation, she shares how her art bridges the gap between emotion and action, why she chooses to lead with optimism, and the role photography plays in shaping a better future for our planet. Read the full interview below and step into her vision of a thriving, resilient world.
Check Out CRISTINA'S Works HERE
Your work seamlessly blends art and advocacy. What motivates you to use photography as a tool for ocean conservation, and how has it impacted your approach as an artist?
My motivation is the almost naive belief that art is the balm society needs in order to change. When you are an artist, you have to believe everyone sees the same beauty, sorrow, drama and joy you see in your art. Some days, I question the effectiveness of my choices, but I am a true artist, and I genuinely do not know how to see the world in a different way or how to better articulate my hopes and dreams for the beautiful planet we all share.
As one of the pioneers of conservation photography, how do you balance capturing beauty with raising awareness about critical environmental issues?
There have always been amazing storytellers who help society imagine and create a path for a better future. One of my favourites is Dr. Martin Luther King and the civil rights movement. He knew that the road to achieving equality for all races would be long, but he didn’t start his famous speech by saying, “I have a nightmare.” Instead, he articulated the possibilities of his dream, and he painted a picture of the future he wanted to make a reality. I use the same approach in my photography. Focusing on the negative things happening around us can only fulfil that destiny. If we want to change how the story ends, we need to know what the end looks like, and for me, the end has to be the beautiful planet we all need to thrive.
Who do you hope your art speaks to the most - passionate conservationists, art enthusiasts, or the next generation of ocean stewards?
I hope it reaches both, but the most critical audience I am trying to reach is those still unaware or those apathetic, especially those in a position to make decisions and change corporate behaviour or legislation. I know I am not likely to dissuade those who are greedy and selfish and who do not care about destroying our planet for profit. I speak to those who have simply not been paying attention or somehow missed the urgent call to be part of the vast community of passionate people doing everything possible to solve the issues affecting our chances of surviving on this planet.
Through her lens, Cristina Mittermeier invites us to see the ocean not only as a place of beauty, but as a living, breathing force essential to our shared future. Her work reminds us that art can be both a mirror and a catalyst—reflecting what we love and urging us to protect it.
As you engage with her imagery, we hope you’re moved by its balance of urgency and optimism. Because for Cristina, every photograph is more than a moment—it’s a message of hope, a vision of possibility, and a quiet demand for change.
To view Cristina Mittermeier’s available works at Sun Valley Contemporary, visit the gallery or connect with one of our consultants. We’re honored to represent her voice and vision.
Check Out All the Pieces by CRISTINA HERE