Ocean Sole: Resources
About Ocean Sole
Ocean Sole is a Kenyan social enterprise transforming discarded flip-flops into vibrant, hand-carved sculptures. Born on the shores of Kenya — where plastic pollution washes in every day — what began as a small community cleanup became something much bigger: a movement to turn ocean waste into purpose.
Today, Ocean Sole collects thousands of flip-flops from coastlines, waterways, and informal waste sites across Kenya, transforming them by hand into bold, joyful works of art. From miniature sea creatures to towering installations, each piece is a symbol of circular design and environmental hope.
Ocean Sole is also a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in the United States, dedicated to supporting community, conservation, and creative impact in Kenya.
Impact
By the Numbers
19,000+ flip-flops recycled every week
100+ job opportunities created — collectors, carvers, and conservationists
30,000+ art pieces now living in homes, galleries, zoos, and public spaces around the world
Every purchase directly supports:
Beach cleanups across Kenya's coastline
Marine conservation projects, including sea turtle protection
Job creation for over 100 artisans, many of whom are women
Eco-education for students, schools, and local communities
Partnership with The Conservation Studio
When we encountered the work of Ocean Sole, we saw a story that needed to be amplified. The world needs new approaches to conservation — creative, community-driven, self-sustaining approaches. Ocean Sole is exactly that. Project Ocean Sole exists to bring their work to new audiences and new communities, and to show what Creative Conservation looks like in practice.
In practical terms, building this exhibit has meant something concrete: The Conservation Studio has commissioned and purchased over 100 large-scale sculptures directly from Ocean Sole — putting resources directly into the community, the artisans, and the work.
Seeing it in person…you’ve really captured our story, and the spirit and feel of Ocean Sole. We are so excited for the public to see this.
Erin Smith, CEO Ocean Sole