A new art exhibit at theTampa Bay Watch Discovery Center in St. Pete is highlighting Florida’s wildlife and natural ecosystems while drawing attention to the environmental impact of fast fashion.
The exhibit, called “Soul Tides,” features work by artist and designer Cora Van Vleet. It includes mixed media pieces, recycled textile sculptures and paintings.
Van Vleet said recycled materials are central to her work. In one piece, she used donated clothing, including old T-shirts and leggings, to create something new.
“Being an artist, it is where I thrive and where I’m most passionate, is when I’m making and creating things,” Van Vleet said.
She said the exhibit reflects her interest in both art and environmental protection.
“It’s a group work of my mixed media pieces with recycled textiles and also my recycled textile sculptures,” Van Vleet said. “And then some of my paintings that have brought me to this point.”
Van Vleet said she often works with recycled textiles because of concerns about the textile industry and fast fashion.
“The textile industry and fast fashion are really kind of hurting the environment right now,” she said.
Her goal, she said, is to encourage visitors to think about the environment and the wildlife that depends on it.
“I just am hoping to spark a passion in them, to care about the environment and the creatures that live in it as much as I can,” Van Vleet said.
Tampa Bay Watch, the environmental nonprofit that runs the Discovery Center, uses education and community outreach to connect people with the bay.
Leah Beery, executive director of education for Tampa Bay Watch, said art can help reach people who may not be drawn first to science programs or outdoor activities.
“If they love art and can interact with art that is about nature, like the ‘Soul Tides’ exhibition, then they can get excited about it, and it’s a pathway to a deeper connection with more people,” Beery said.
Van Vleet said she hopes the exhibit encourages visitors to reflect on their relationship with the natural world.
“My hope is that it makes people reflect a little bit on that wall between us and the world around,” she said.
“Soul Tides” is on display at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center through Oct. 16. The exhibit is included with regular admission.