Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey’s Species on the Edge Art & Essay Contest encourages fifth-grade students to create artwork featuring endangered or threatened species in New Jersey. Every year, fifth-grade students from Ridge Street Elementary School in Newark, New Jersey eagerly participate in this contest as an integral part of the Soaring with STEAM curriculum. This curriculum includes a series of specialized lessons taught by CWF educators throughout the school year. To honor these students’ engagement, CWF organizes an annual assembly featuring acclaimed artist James Fiorentino. Renowned for his diverse portfolio spanning wildlife, sports icons, and landscapes, James embarked on his artistic journey at the age of fifteen, with his work showcased in the Baseball Hall of Fame. During his visit to Ridge Street Elementary, James shared his inspiring narrative and engaged with the young artists on the subject of art.
Mercer County Wildlife Center Director Diane Nickerson, CWF Executive Director Liz Silvernail, CWF Board Member and Atlantic City Electric Environmental Manager Lisa Thomas, Mercer County Park Commission Deputy Director Joseph Pizza, and CWF Director of Education Rachel McGovern join the 2023 Species on the Edge Contest Winners.
Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey recognized the winners of the 21st annual Species on the Edge Art & Essay Contest at an awards ceremony held at Mercer County Wildlife Center. The statewide educational contest empowers fifth graders to advocate for an endangered or threatened wildlife species through their research, artwork, and writing.
by Andrew Mead, Communications Professional and former intern at Conserve Wildlife Foundation
(From Left) Hiram Blauvelt President James Bellis, Artist James Fiorentino, Former Governor Thomas Kean, CWF Board Member Rick Weiman, CWF Executive Director David Wheeler
“As the former governor of New Jersey, I’m surprised to say I’ve never been to Hiram Blauvelt Museum before,” said Governor Tom Kean. “But now that I have, you can bet I’ll be back.”
That sentiment was widely shared that night in Oradell, at the state’s only wildlife art museum.
Art and animal lovers gathered on May 19 at the Hiram Blauvelt Museum to celebrate “Rare Wildlife Revealed: The James Fiorentino Traveling Art Exhibit.” The exhibit came to life in the gorgeous galleries of the museum, which was formerly a carriage house, accompanied by soothing harp music.
Hiram Blauvelt Art Museum
The free reception opened with remarks by Governor Kean, who shared the reverence felt by many in attendance. A longtime champion of Fiorentino, he also wrote the foreword to the exhibition’s hardcover book. After a riveting speech, the excitement was palpable.
David Wheeler, Executive Director of Conserve Wildlife Foundation, spoke next.
“The evocative artwork of James Fiorentino helps highlight the amazing diversity of New Jersey wildlife, from the humpback whale to the little brown bat. Our partnership seeks to bring attention to the very tangible steps that people can take to save and strengthen these wildlife populations.”
After two generous introductions, James Fiorentino finally took center stage. As the youngest artist ever featured in the National Baseball Hall of Fame, he was gracious with his words.
“As I look around the room I see many familiar faces and am reminded of how many have helped me along the way.” After thanking specific members of the audience, he continued, “I want to thank all of you for coming tonight and hope that you are inspired by New Jersey’s wildlife as much as I am. This is a very special place and I feel honored to be here among such amazing work.”
Amidst a backdrop that would awe even the most seasoned art collector, it was impossible not to feel inspired. Established in 1957, the Hiram Blauvelt Museum boasts a world-famous collection of wildlife paintings, sculptures and big game trophies. Along with the 25 watercolors of Rare Wildlife Revealed: The James Fiorentino Traveling Art Exhibition, an artistic atmosphere driven by conservation is sure to inspire you as well. Pay a visit while you have a chance!
Rare Wildlife Revealed will be shown at Hiram Blauvelt Museum through July 30, 2017.
Sales of the exhibition book, original paintings, limited edition digital prints, and wildlife merchandise will benefit Conserve Wildlife Foundation.
To learn more about hosting a future showing of Rare Wildlife Revealed – whether for an extended exhibition or a single night’s event – please contact Liz Silvernail, CWF Director of Development at 609.292.3707.
