New Catalina Island Exhibit Showcases Art Inspired by Kelp

A new art exhibit on Catalina Island is set to captivate visitors with the ethereal creations of artist and marine scientist Oriana Poindexter. Running from November 8, 2023, to October 11, 2026, this exhibition focuses on kelp, a vital marine plant that plays a significant ecological role. Poindexter’s works employ blue silk and cyanotype images that draw inspiration from the underwater flora surrounding the island.

A Deep Dive into the Kelp Forests

The exhibit aims to provide a unique sensory experience, inviting guests to explore the beauty of kelp without needing to enter the water. Kelp, often highlighted during glass-bottom boat tours, holds a special place in the hearts of many ocean enthusiasts. Poindexter hopes to immerse visitors in the intricate world of this marine plant through her art.

Her pieces were created using kelp collected during diving expeditions near Catalina. The marine flora is printed onto large swathes of blue silk, allowing for a closer examination of these delicate wonders. According to Poindexter, “I hope visitors will feel the sense of calm, curiosity, and connection that I experience underwater.”

The exhibition transforms the museum into a “labyrinth” of silk art, encouraging guests to reflect on the shapes and types of underwater specimens that thrive in the region. Poindexter describes entering the exhibit as “an invitation to slow down, breathe, and recognize yourself as a small part of something much larger.”

Art, Science, and Community Engagement

The museum’s mission is to blend art and science, creating an educational yet intimate experience for all who attend. Visitors will not only appreciate the aesthetic beauty of Poindexter’s work but also gain insight into the ecological significance of kelp forests. This initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems and their importance to the environment.

As the exhibit opens, Avalon will become a hub for those interested in the intersection of art and nature. The exhibition promises to be a remarkable addition to the cultural landscape of Catalina Island, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the ocean’s wonders through a new lens. Guests are encouraged to visit in the coming months to witness the silky splendor that highlights the vibrant world beneath the waves.