Pictured: Sketches and brainstorming from Braden River High School artists. Photos courtesy of Bluewater Gear.

Bluewater Gear brings together good causes and great student art in its latest contest fundraiser, arranged through a collaboration with Braden River High School’s art program, and set to benefit Mote Marine Laboratory, Save the Sea Turtles Foundation and Surfers for Autism. Following coverage of production costs, proceeds benefit both the organizations selected and the Braden River Art Program.

Students selected the three local, ocean-themed organizations to align with Bluewater Gear’s Sarasota roots and reverence for the deep, blue sea and then the students crafted a shirt design for each of the organizations. With their donations, people can vote for their favorite shirt design. Each of the designs depicts beautifully drawn and detailed sea creatures and beach scenes. The shirt that receives the most donations will be made and sent to donors. The artwork for the other two designs will be used for a Bluewater decal, which will be sent to their respective donors along with a thank you note.

The contest fundraiser seeks not only to raise money for the Florida-based organizations but also to provide students with professional outlets to develop their art. Directed by the dedicated teacher of 15 years, William Ferrell, Braden River Arts Program students have earned over $1 million in art scholarships and he has led design students to five national and six state art competitions. With this confidence and flair, the students embarked on creating intricate, ocean designs for this Bluewater Gear contest fundraiser.

"I would like to give them opportunity to get their art out there to the public and make a difference in the community, in a professional setting,” says Rachel Stotler, Bluewater Gear’s art director and social media coordinator.

The fundraiser ends on May 17. Voting is currently open. For more information or to donate, visit the website below.

Pictured: Sketches and brainstorming from Braden River High School artists. Photos courtesy of Bluewater Gear.

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