New Kelp by Derek Tarr was one of twelve photographs that will be displayed at Heal the Bay’s Santa Monica Pier Aquarium during the month of March 2012. The photos selected for the exhibit are winning entries from California Ocean and Coastal Photography Contest. The contest features photographs that reflect the importance that the coast and ocean has for California residents and the role that the Coastal Commission, Natural Resources Agency and Ocean Protection Council have played in preserving coastal and marine resources.
Santa Monica’s Mayor Richard Bloom requested that this traveling exhibit be brought to Santa Monica. “I’m thrilled that these beautiful images are going to be available to residents and visitors in Santa Monica and encourage people to come take a look,” he said. “The photos represent what we all love about the California coast.” “I am excited to present science and art together to educate the general public about how interconnected these two disciplines are. The ability to see what the ocean looks like underwater through this exhibit is a great tool to inspire awareness and conservation of the ocean environment. We are pleased to partner with the California Coastal Commission to bring this opportunity to our Aquarium,” said Vicki Wawerchak, Aquarium Director.