This spring, the Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Barnegat Bay Partnership teamed up to present the Art x Science Workshop Series. This free, hands-on program was designed to connect community members with the science and history of the Barnegat Bay through the lens of art.
From April to June, each Saturday workshop welcomed participants to explore the natural and cultural heritage of our coastal watershed. With registration maxing out for every session, it was clear that this creative fusion of art and environmental education piqued the interest with our community.
Pine Barrens Ecology x Photography
Joel Mott of the Pinelands Commission kicked off the series with a guided hike through the pygmy pines, a globally rare forest community that has endured extreme fire history and is known as one of the most combustible habitats in the country. Joel was joined by photography professor Ariana Sanchez, who introduced participants – from novice to experienced – to photography techniques that captured the unique flora and fauna of the area along the hike.
Wetland Ecology x Block Printing
Dr. Thomas Grothues led the next workshop with a deep dive into the aquatic ecosystems of Barnegat Bay, Great Bay, and Little Egg Harbor. Attendees then transformed their newfound knowledge into art under the guidance of award-winning artist Jo Guscott. Each participant went home with a hand-carved, nature-inspired block print and a greater appreciation for the complex life below the bay’s surface.
Native Plants x Florestry
Watershed Ambassador Cameron Shapiro shared her extensive knowledge as a former florist and current plant enthusiast to help attendees identify native and invasive plant species and forage responsibly. Inside, the group crafted stunning seasonal bouquets using the plants they had gathered, turning ecological insight into ephemeral floral art. Many participants said they’ll never look at beachside greenery the same way again.
History of Duck Hunting x Decoy Carving
The final workshop brought participants back in time at the Tuckerton Seaport, exploring the cultural history of duck hunting in the region with expert decoy carver Fred Reitmeyer. Attendees then got hands-on with decoy carving and painting, creating their own traditional-style “flatties” to take home — tangible connections to the region’s maritime past.
Art Meets Environmental Stewardship
The success of the Art x Science workshop series shows that when science is paired with creativity, it becomes not only more accessible but more memorable. Through a new lens, ink, flowers, and wood shavings, participants engaged with their local environment and came away inspired to learn more and do more to protect it.
Thank you to all who attended, our incredible presenters and artists, and the partners who made this unique series possible. We hope to offer more opportunities like this in the future, where science gets a little messy, and art gets a little wild.
Stay tuned for what’s next!
