The New York Marine Rescue Center (NYMRC) has played a critical role in protecting and preserving endangered marine life along Long Island, New York. It mainly focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing endangered sea turtles. These efforts are essential for the survival of vulnerable species whose populations continue to face threats from human activity and environmental changes. In honor of NYMRC’s work, the Sculpture Illuminare team recently unveiled a 14-foot sea turtle sculpture, an artistic homage that celebrates the dedication and achievements of this inspiring organization.
The vibrant sculpture is not just a piece of art; it’s a powerful symbol of awareness and advocacy. Created with stainless steel and heat-molded plexiglass, the sea turtle sculpture embodies the spirit of the Atlantic Green sea turtle, one of the species NYMRC works tirelessly to protect. The radiant, illuminated design is a product of skilled craftsmanship and a shared passion for marine conservation. This tribute reflects the beauty of these creatures and emphasizes the importance of preserving our oceans and the wildlife within them.
New York Marine Rescue Center: A Mission of Marine Conservation
Founded on the belief that every life in our oceans is valuable, the New York Marine Rescue Center (NYMRC) has become an essential organization dedicated to marine animal rescue and rehabilitation. NYMRC’s efforts extend beyond immediate intervention to include educational programs that raise awareness about marine conservation and the significance of protecting endangered species. Through this work, NYMRC not only helps individual animals but also strengthens the public’s understanding of marine ecosystems and the role we all play in preserving them.
One of the primary focuses of NYMRC is the rescue and rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles. Every year, sea turtles face numerous dangers, from entanglement in fishing nets to injury from boat strikes and the effects of pollution. During the winter months, sea turtles can become “cold-stunned,” a condition in which low water temperatures impair their ability to move, often leading to hypothermia. When NYMRC is notified of a stranded or injured sea turtle, their team of trained responders quickly mobilizes to bring the turtle to safety, providing medical treatment and care until the animal can be released back into the wild.
The Art of Conservation: The Sea Turtle Sculpture by Sculpture Illuminare
To honor the dedication and hard work of NYMRC, the Sculpture Illuminare team designed a unique sculpture that pays tribute to the endangered sea turtles rescued by the center. Standing at 14 feet, this magnificent sculpture captures the essence of an Atlantic Green sea turtle, crafted meticulously by Sculpture Illuminare’s talented artists.
The vision for the sculpture was brought to life by Eli Fishman, the resident artist at the Long Island Aquarium, who expertly created the stainless-steel frame and welded it to scale. The detailed framework, combined with Bryan DeLuca’s technique of heat-molded plexiglass design and glowing waterproof interior lighting, gives the sculpture an ethereal glow, especially at night. The result is a stunning and life-like portrayal that captivates viewers and symbolizes the resilience and grace of these endangered animals.
As artists Bryan DeLuca and Eli Fishman collaborated on the sculpture, their goal was to create an art piece that showcased the sea turtle’s beauty and inspired people to think about conservation efforts. The radiant glow from the waterproof lighting inside the sculpture makes it a sight to behold, representing the “glowing” personalities of these remarkable creatures and the beacon of hope that organizations like NYMRC provide for endangered wildlife.
Celebrating Conservation Milestones: The Endangered Species Act’s 50th Anniversary and Sea Turtle Stamps
The unveiling of this sculpture was thoughtfully timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, a landmark federal legislation that has been instrumental in protecting various species from extinction. In addition, the release of the United States Postal Service’s Endangered Sea Turtle stamps serves as another national reminder of the importance of conservation efforts. By aligning the sculpture with these milestones, the Sculpture Illuminare team and NYMRC have elevated public awareness, celebrating the progress made in wildlife protection and the ongoing need for action.
This unique sea turtle sculpture allows the public to witness firsthand the connection between art and conservation. Its visual impact encourages viewers to reflect on the importance of protecting our oceans and endangered species, serving as both a reminder and a call to action for environmental stewardship.
A Community Effort: Reflextions Riverhead and Support for Public Art
The sea turtle sculpture debuted at the aquarium before moving to Grangebel Park as part of the Reflexions Riverhead event. This free public art experience showcases illuminated sculptures, attracting locals and tourists alike. Sculpture Illuminare leads the project, and artists Clayton, Eli, Bryan, and other local artists contribute their skills and passion to create engaging public art displays.
Reflextions Riverhead, with support from the Riverhead Business Improvement District Management Association (BIDMA), Suffolk County Omnibus Grant, Main Street Media, East End Arts, and various sponsors such as Coca-Cola, Rotary, and RJG Consulting, aims to bring the community together through public art. These events enrich the community, offering a shared space where art and nature converge and fostering a collective appreciation for both. The public can witness the beauty of the sea turtle sculpture and participate in a community dialogue about conservation inspired by the work of NYMRC and the artists behind the project.
Inspiration for Future Conservation Efforts
The collaboration between the New York Marine Rescue Center and Sculpture Illuminare represents more than just a tribute to endangered sea turtles—a symbol of hope, resilience, and community. By creating this remarkable sculpture, the artists and supporters of Reflextions Riverhead have given Long Island residents and visitors a chance to engage with conservation tangibly.
This sculpture is a visual reminder of the critical role NYMRC plays in preserving marine life. It is a testament to the idea that everyone, from artists to local organizations and citizens, can contribute to protecting endangered species. Through the powerful connection between art and conservation, NYMRC and Sculpture Illuminare invite us all to take action and support the continued recovery of our oceans’ most vulnerable creatures.