MMoA is proud to present The Coral Reef Project, a mixed media exhibition with a unique sculptural installation that demonstrates the fragility of coral and its ecosystem.
This exhibition, created and curated by Tekla Zweir, Chair of the Art Department at the Williams School in New London, CT, includes research into various species of coral. Included in the exhibition are studies of coral in oil on canvas and experimental encaustic paintings that utilize Tekla’s underwater photographs of a coral reef; and individual coral sculptures in an installation to demonstrate a living coral reef juxtaposed with real pieces and plaster relief sculptures to represent bleached coral, showing the fragility of the reef.
The main objectives of this exhibition are to show the diversity of coral species; demonstrate the fragility of the coral reef; educate the public about coral and its habitat; show the connection of science to art; explain the importance of research in the artistic process; utilize art for environmental awareness; and inspire students to create art that fosters critical thinking.
Tekla has studied coral at the Mystic Aquarium, the Boston Museum of Science, and the Key West Aquarium; and has also visited three coral reefs at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, Florida. Her research there included taking photographs, making notes, sketching, and learning about different coral species.
www.thecoralreefproject.org

Coral #30. Glazed Terracotta, 8 in x 8 in x 6 in.