Robinson Preserve To Host Splash Trash Tour

BRADENTON, FL – There’s not a whole lot to love about trash in the world’s oceans and waterways, but the Robinson Preserve will host an exhibition that looks to reuse that refuse.

The Valentine House will host the Splash Trash Tour, an arts-based, hands-on pop-up show from Wednesday, Feb. 15 through Saturday, Feb. 25. Manatee County is the third stop on the show’s six-city tour along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

The Splash Trash Tour promotes dialogue and action about trash in oceans and what can be done to make a difference. Created by environmentalist Bette Booth, the tour is an artistic exhibit that uses trash items found in the ocean to create art.

“We’re extremely excited to host the tour here in Manatee County,” said Melissa Nell, the county’s Parks and Natural Resources volunteer and educational division manager. “The sculptures and artwork in the tour makes a striking visual impact that definitely evokes wonder at the sheer volume and diversity of trash found in our world’s oceans. By hosting the tour, we hope to not only inform viewers but also to inspire them to take action to improve the situation.”

The Robinson Preserve will host a variety of special programs throughout the tour stop.

“We’re particularly excited about the programs,” Nell Said. “Participants will have the opportunity to create a piece of art to add to the tour.”

On both Saturdays during the exhibition, Feb. 18 and Feb. 25, guided tours of the exhibit will be hosted from 9 to 11 a.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. Each event will include hands-on activities to further the learning experience.

A grand opening for the exhibit is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 17 from 4 to 7 p.m. Booth will host the event and light refreshments will be served. Additional programs during the exhibition will include two library talks – one for adults and one for children – and several homeschool programs.

Walton County in Florida’s panhandle was the first stop on the tour and was welcomed with an overwhelming response, Booth said. The tour worked with high school science classes, presented at the local college, created beach trash art with a local 4-H club and held the pop-up show at the 4-H Pancake Breakfast.

For more information on the tour, contact Nell at Melissa.nell@mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501 ext. 6042.

Image via psyberartist, Flickr, used under Creative Commons