Urban Jungle Art Exhibit Andrew Wilson

The Natural World Museum's world-class program, Art Into Action is launching its "Urban Jungle Environmental Art Expo" in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), for World Environment Day. Never before has a cultural institution brought together under one roof an exhibition including rare works of art from the private family collections of Ansel Adams and Robert Bateman; important models of conservation ranging from National Geographic’s Central African Megatransect to Conservation International’s Biodiversity Hotspots; in addition to showcasing works of art from internationally renowned artists such as Frans Lanting, Andreas Lang, Antonio Vizcaino, and Hirokazun Kosaka, and installations from talented local emerging environmental artists including Justin Young, JC Didier, Jasko Begovic, Nate Pagel, and Francis Baker.

exhibit curator - Yuri Psinakis

In May of 2005, Andrew had a unique opportunity present itself. During the United Nations World Environment Day 2005 in San Francisco, a world-class art exhibit was being assembled. Exhibit curator, Yuri Psinakis, asked Andrew to share his thoughts on the environment.

Andrew created a message that has come to be known as "the Hummingbird." It was used as one of the key statements for the exhibit. (Click here to read "the Hummingbird.") or hear Andrew's recording of "the Hummingbird."

After much creative thought and discussions with Yuri and exhibiting artist Francis Berry, it was decided that the ideal place for a kid's message was on a refrigerator. A refrigerator was secured and "the Hummingbird" took on its completed form. Printed copies of "the Hummingbird" were placed inside for people who were curious enough to look inside.

The exhibit preview day included interviews along with discussions with visitors and other artists. Andrew's interview about the environment and the role of the artist, drew quite a crowd.

Unite in Green Gala Reception
On Friday night, there was a gala reception for the Natural World Museum's Urban Jungle Environmental Art Expo.

Co-Master of Ceremonies, actress Daryl Hannah, lead a tour of VIPs and media through the exhibit When she saw the Hummingbird Refrigerator, she stopped, read it aloud to the tour and was moved to tears.

When she met Andrew a little later, she said (with a smile) "You're in trouble! You made me cry!"

The remainder of the evening was filled with talking to guests about the work and meeting many of the other exhibiting artists.

One common question was, "What happens to the refrigerator after the exhibit?" It will be used as a refrigerator Many of the items in the exhibit started with a useful life and then became art. In this case, the refrigerator started off as art and will now have a useful life. It is a new twist on recycling.

Inspiring Sustainable Culture - an International Symposium

One of the big attractions of the international symposium that adjoined the art exhibit was a presentation on Global Warming by Keynote Speaker: former Vice President Al Gore.

Afterward, Andrew had a few moments to meet with Mr. Gore where he presented a copy of "The Hummingbird."

He read the text, thanked Andrew, and handed it to one of his assistants with the instructions. "I really want to keep this."

Wyland is a pioneer in the marine art movement. A painter, sculptor and muralist, he is one of the most prolific nature artists alive. It is estimated that over one billion people are exposed to his art every year.

After having a chance to discuss the show and art in general, he spotted Andrew's new sketch book. On the spot he helped to break it in by drawing one of Andrew's favorite sea creatures, a Honu. (Hawaiian for sea turtle.)

There is a special relationship that artists have with one another. This is especially true as you watch more experienced artists encouraging the next generation to grow. There were a number of wonderful artists at the exhibit who have provided creative support and have also become friends.