Community Mural with Alchemy Art Center and Friends!

woman and child carving ceramic tiles to make a mosaic

Alchemy Art Center and Friends of the San Juans are teaming up to bring art and ecology together in “Interconnected,” a collaborative mural project celebrating eelgrass—a vital but often overlooked marine plant in the Salish Sea. With the generous support of A Waterworks Gallery, this community-driven project invites locals to craft ceramic tiles for a stunning mosaic that will be installed as public art on San Juan Island.

We’re grateful to A Waterworks Gallery and the many community members who joined us last winter to create tiles for this project.

eelgrass in the ocean
Eelgrass — A vital underwater habitat that supports a web of marine life, from young salmon and forage fish to stalked jellyfish and nudibranchs. This seagrass stabilizes shorelines, filters water, and provides shelter and food for countless species.
jellyfish that attaches to eelgrass
Stauromedusae — An enchanting stalked jellyfish that attaches to eelgrass, relying on these habitats for shelter and feeding. Unlike typical jellyfish, it anchors itself with a stalk and captures plankton with its delicate, flower-like tentacles. Found in shallow waters, it’s a testament to the hidden beauty of the Salish Sea’s nearshore ecosystems. Images courtesy Jen Strongin Photography.

Why eelgrass?

Despite its crucial role in stabilizing shorelines, filtering water, and supporting marine life, eelgrass in the San Juans is disappearing. This mural will not only beautify the community but also raise awareness about the importance of protecting eelgrass habitats.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate eelgrass with this project,” says Alchemy Art Center co-founder Maria Michaelson. “Just as eelgrass weaves life together under the waves, this mural will bring our community together to create something beautiful above the surface.”

The mural-making events are open to all ages, and no prior art experience is needed. Bring your creativity and learn more about eelgrass’s vital role in our ecosystem. Join us in creating a mural that connects us all—just like the eelgrass beds we’re working to protect!