Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: An Appreciation by John Reed
Location: Palm Plaza Café
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has an exhibition of wildlife photos by photographer, educator, and writer John Reed on display at Palm Plaza Café. Every photo displayed has been taken at the Zoo from 2003 to present. Reed is a published local and national nature photographer, Zoo Member, and leader of the Snapshot Society where he facilitates members-only photo events. “John Reed is an outstanding wildlife photographer who connects people with art and nature at the same time. He has been a great friend and supporter of the Zoo, and we are thrilled to share his talent with our guests,” said Executive Director Tony Vecchio. Reed’s exhibition was facilitated by the Zoo’s Art Committee and is one of many initiatives to support local artists and bring awareness to the connection between art and the Zoo. “Just as the Zoo is for everybody in our community, I believe art is something that everyone should have access to. We have worked very hard for the past ten years to build connections with the arts and culture community in Jacksonville. Allowing the Zoo to be a venue for art has been a great way to strengthen those relationships,” said Vecchio.
Art from Nairobi
Location: Various, Throughout the Gardens
There are a total of 16 pieces throughout our Gardens: two giraffes, four elephants, two lions, two peacocks, two cranes, a rhino, hippo, zebra, and bald eagle. Every piece is made out of recycled metal, including scraps from metal barrels and auto parts.
These sculptures were made by a group of 19 artists from impoverished and disadvantaged backgrounds, who were recruited by Wildlife Garden Creations in Nairobi, Kenya. They are a group called the Ark Collective that are taught valuable skills such as design, metal cutting, welding, painting, and molding to empower them to be self-sustaining, productive members of their communities.
