In honor of Earth Day, PADI, Neuro® and Blue Robotics have unveiled a stunning new mural in San Diego, and it’s more than just a work of art. It’s a rallying cry for ocean conservation.
Painted by Neuro Co-Founder and muralist Kent Yoshimura, the mural depicts sharks, rays, and a thriving kelp ecosystem, celebrating the beauty and ecological importance of these often-misunderstood marine animals. The initiative, supported by the Blue Earth Street Art program and Beautify Earth, brings marine science to the streets—literally—by inviting passersby into a story of balance, biodiversity, and ocean advocacy.
“This isn’t just a mural—it’s a call to action,” says Danna Moore, Director of the PADI AWARE Foundation™.
Shifting Fear to Fascination
2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Jaws, a cultural milestone that fueled decades of shark fear. But today, over a third of shark species face extinction, and it’s time for a narrative shift. This mural helps do just that, replacing fear with fascination and inviting the community to see sharks as they truly are – vital players in ocean health.
“We hope this mural brings communities together, inspires action, and serves as a reminder that protecting our oceans is a shared responsibility,” says Yoshimura.
A Mural With a Mission
The artwork isn’t just beautiful; it’s backed by action. This project builds on a long-standing conservation partnership between PADI and Neuro, which has raised over USD $250,000 to support ocean protection through the PADI AWARE Foundation.
The mural also highlights the crucial role of technology in conservation. Blue Robotics’ underwater drones, like the BlueROV2, have been used in places like the Galápagos to observe shark behavior and track marine ecosystems. These results from these observations are used to advance science and shape smarter conservation strategies.
“This mural captures what we are all working toward: a more connected relationship with the ocean,” says Tyler Buckingham of Blue Robotics.
Join the Movement
Inspired by the mural, this year’s limited edition Neuro x PADI tins will feature the artwork and help fund PADI’s Vulnerable Marine Species program and the Global Shark & Ray Census, a new global citizen science project that invites divers and ocean lovers everywhere to contribute to shark and ray protection.
“Through this mural and the collective power of our partners, we are shifting the narrative—celebrating sharks not as something to fear, but as something to fiercely protect,” Moore adds.
So whether you’re a diver, an artist, or simply someone who loves the ocean, this mural is your invitation to dive in through exploration, education, or everyday choices and become part of a global movement to restore balance beneath the waves.
