Sunset Moon, 2012, Jo-Ann Sanborn
acrylic on board, 7"x5"
This weekend's moon was just magnificent, and I hope you enjoyed it. It's the moon a couple of weeks ago that has stayed in my mind for today's painting. The sliver of a silver moon in the darkening sky said goodnight to the sun, and I sat pondering the future of the natural world on Marco Island.
Do we want to share our island with gopher tortoises and burrowing owls? I do. They are quite exotic to someone who grew up with squirrels and bunnies. I'm amazed and delighted by these unusual creatures and take great pleasure in showing them to island visitors.
Can we ensure that future generations, out taking a morning walk, will be able to stop and watch the bobbing little peanut shapes of the owls or the lumbering ancientness of the tortoises?
Our environment is important. When I moved here, the entrance sign said "eagle sanctuary" and there were four nesting pair. Now there's one. The Marco Eagle Sanctuary Foundation is a step in the right direction.
Our arts and culture is important. The new director at the Marco Island Center for the Arts is making good progress, and our cultural groups are growing.
Our history is important. The Marco Island Historical Society has added a terrific museum, and has plans for more, and Otter Mound will remain a wonderful natural little pocket park if treated carefully.
We need to think ahead and begin planning for all of these elements to be part of our future. Studies show that cultural and environment tourists stay longer and spend more. Marco Island can be much more than just a day at the beach.
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