Pictured: The new mural at Save Our Seabirds was completed over Memorial Day weekend. Photo courtesy of Save Our Seabirds.

In celebration of Florida’s native wildlife, local artist and Ringling College alum Annie Joy has created a vibrant new 10x20' mural at Save Our Seabirds, drawing inspiration from the work of local photographer Mary Lou Johnson. The mural reflects the organization’s mission to connect people with nature through wild bird conservation and education. This new artwork represents a thoughtful refresh of an original mural painted 15 years ago by Mirald Cake, another Ringling alum, which had endured years of sun and storms.

“More than a fresh coat of paint, the mural marks the beginning of a new era at Save Our Seabirds. It kicks off a wave of improvements–including all-new aviaries, a reimagined avian hospital and an updated gift shop–designed to better serve the birds in our care and the people who visit,” explains Marketing and Outreach Manager Lisa Wood. “With nearly thirty percent of North America’s breeding bird population lost in the last 50 years, the mural stands as both a celebration of Sarasota’s arts culture and a reminder of what’s at stake.”

Artist Annie Joy sees strong parallels between art and conservation: "To me, public art and conservation often share a common goal–education of the public, accessibility to knowledge and awareness, which in turn allows and encourages community support for any cause. I think the relationship and collaboration between them are important.” As a longtime weekly volunteer for a wildlife sanctuary and a professional in the nonprofit sector, she felt personally connected to the mission at Save Our Seabirds. “I know the hard work and dedication it takes to make an impact,” she shares.

“I would say this mural is our way of honoring Sarasota’s rich arts culture while reminding visitors of the urgent need to protect wild birds and the habitats that inspired it,” adds Wood. “We hope it serves as a focal point–a place where people can pause, reflect and feel more deeply connected to the natural world.”

Save Our Seabirds is a nonprofit organization committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and injured birds, with the goal of releasing them back into their natural habitats.

Save Our Seabirds, 1708 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, 941-388-3010.

Pictured: The new mural at Save Our Seabirds was completed over Memorial Day weekend. Photo courtesy of Save Our Seabirds.