The vibrant underwater world of Catalina Island is set to be celebrated through a unique art exhibition by artist and marine scientist Oriana Poindexter. Opening on November 8, 2023, and running until October 11, 2026, the exhibit focuses on the ecological significance of kelp, a vital marine plant. Visitors will be invited to explore Poindexter’s captivating works that combine art and science to create a sensory experience highlighting the beauty of ocean life.
Poindexter’s creations feature large pieces of blue silk adorned with cyanotype images of kelp, collected during her dives near the island. The silk pieces aim to evoke the delicate and intricate forms of this crucial marine flora, which plays a significant role in the underwater ecosystem. As visitors wander through the exhibit, they will encounter a “labyrinth” of these artistic representations, designed to inspire both curiosity and reflection.
“The exhibit is intended to act as a portal into Catalina’s underwater world,” Poindexter stated. “I hope visitors will feel the sense of calm, curiosity, and connection that I experience underwater. Entering the forest of cyanotype silks invites them to slow down, breathe, and recognize themselves as part of something much larger.”
This innovative exhibition promises to merge education and artistic expression, allowing attendees to engage with the kelp forest’s ecological importance while enjoying the aesthetic appeal of the artworks. The museum aims to foster a deeper understanding of marine environments and their conservation through Poindexter’s art.
The exhibition will be held in a dedicated space on Catalina Island, where many tourists have already developed a fondness for the ocean’s wonders. Glass-bottom boat tours frequently showcase the vibrant kelp forests, making them a popular attraction for visitors. Now, with this exhibition, the island offers yet another opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of its underwater landscape, but on dry land.
As the exhibit unfolds over nearly a year, it is expected to attract both art enthusiasts and those interested in marine biology. Poindexter’s work serves not only as a visual feast but also as a reminder of the delicate balance within our oceans and the need for their preservation. Visitors to Avalon in the coming months will have the chance to immerse themselves in the ethereal splendor of kelp, bringing awareness to the often-overlooked treasures of marine life.
In an age where environmental concerns are increasingly pressing, exhibits like Poindexter’s play a crucial role in raising awareness and inspiring action. As art and science intertwine, attendees will walk away with a renewed sense of respect for the natural world and its intricate ecosystems.
