Greer's OC

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel will unveil an inspiring exhibition of marine life art by Laguna Beach-based renowned artist Wyland on Friday, Sept. 1. The “Hope for the Ocean” exhibit recognizes his foundation’s new partnership with the United Nations Environment Program in support of the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

The exhibit is open to the public through January 4, 2018 and includes 25 original oil paintings, Chinese sumi brush paintings, giclees on canvas, aluminum, watercolors, a bronze sculpture, and a mixed media coffee table. 

Wyland has built an international reputation for his commitment to marine life conservation, most notably through his monumental marine life murals, the whaling walls. spanning thousands of square feet, these massive works of art expose more than one billion people each year to the thrilling diversity and beauty of life that exists below the surface of our ocean planet.

This multi-faceted artist works in multiple mediums, including oils, watercolors, acrylics, Japanese ink paintings, bronze sculptures, fine art photography, and mixed media.

He is considered one of the most successful working artists today, with galleries throughout the United States, and more than half a million collectors around the world. Each of his works speaks to our beautiful but fragile marine ecosystem. Dedicated to saving our water resources through art and education, his non-profit Wyland Foundation is actively engaged in alerting millions of students around the world to become caring, informed stewards of our ocean, rivers, lakes, streams, and wetlands through classroom education, community events, and public art projects.

 “The ocean has been a source for awe and wonder since time began; but we’ve come to a crossroads where what we do now can make all the difference for the next ten thousand years,” said Wyland. “I’ve always seen incredible beauty in the sea. I suppose that’s why I feel such a responsibility to ensure the health of this precious resource.”

Each year, at least 8 million tons of plastic ends up in the ocean. Marine litter directly impacts more than 600 marine species. More than three billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods.  

For more information or reservations call 800-241-3333, the hotel directly at 949-240-2000, or visit ritzcarlton.com/LagunaNiguel.

1 Ritz Carlton Drive in Dana Point.