Artificial crochet coral reef exhibit opens

Local crafters are giving marine life a new look this weekend as Manatee County's Natural Resources Department encourages the public to "dive into an ocean of yarn."

The county will host an Artificial Crochet Coral Reef Exhibit, which features more than 100 handmade coral and reef structures donated by about 20 local crafters, during the "Meet the Reef Festival," from 9 a.m. to noon. Jan. 7, at Robinson Preserve's Valentine House, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton.

“After a year in the making, it’s finally here," said NRD naturalist Melissa Cain Nell. "We are proud to announce the opening of the Artificial Crochet Coral Reef Exhibit in the Valentine House at Robinson Preserve. For the past year, volunteers have been meeting on a monthly basis to learn how to crochet the coral reef and sea creature patterns, gathering at Emerson Point Preserve in Palmetto for regular workshops."

More than 20 local crafters, ranging in age from preschool students to retirees, have participated in the project. The exhibit not only will showcase their work, but also the diversity found within coral reefs.
Festival activities also include building and piloting underwater robots, face painting and more.
All festivities are free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Nell at [email protected] or call 748-4501 ext. 4605.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].