Gulf Breeze
Acrylic on canvas, 24"x36

Despite the heat there's almost always a nice breeze here on Marco Island. The swaying of the palm trees and the movement of the grasses in the Everglades is delightful. The heat and the breeze are the inspiration for this new larger painting.

Some Ridley turtles have been released into the warm gulf waters south of Marco Island after spending some time in recoup after various injuries at the for Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport, MS.

The turtles were moved to Sea World's Animal Rehabilitation Center in Orlando for rehab and released near Marco Island because the Oil Spill would have affected their safe release. The release was made possible by a cooperative effort between Center and Florida's Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Kemps Ridley Sea Turtles spend most of their life swimming long distance in both the Gulf and the Ocean. They're endangered in all of their habitat, and the oil spill will put further stress on the endangered species. Since Marco Island has only a very small chance of ever being affected, our waters should remain clear of the toxins associated with the spill. It is hoped that the turtles will remain in the area rather than try to return to their former home.

The Marco Island Foundation for the Arts was instrumental in the acquisition of a beautiful bronze sculpture of Kemps Ridley Sea Turtles by wildlife artist Kent Ullberg. The sculpture was donated to the City, and Journey's End can be seen at Jane Hitler Park, N.Collier Blvd, Marco Island. Stop by, it is lovely. And wish the released little turtles a safe journey.