Artist Erik Abel Brings Natural Beauty to Gala
Artist Erik Abel first volunteered with Heal the Bay at a Nothin’ But Sand beach cleanup in January 2012 where he was treated to a special tour of our Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. There, he found inspiration in the Aquarium’s “shark eggs and funky jellyfish” and realized he wanted to get more involved with our organization. Clean and healthy oceans have always been important to the California native, so partnering with Heal the Bay seemed an obvious choice.
“The ocean is my sanctuary, and I want to do my part to help it stay healthy,” Abel said. “Heal the Bay is a great organization that makes a difference. I’m stoked to work with them and contribute to their cause as a Heal the Bay 2013 Partner Artist.”
As our partner artist, Abel has created stunning artwork accompanying our Bring Back the Beach gala, including the invitation and a mural on display at the event. He will also donate an original painting to the gala’s silent auction and release prints after the event in May.
As a Heal the Bay Partner Artist for 2013, Erik Abel is also releasing:
- Three original paintings. Fifty percent of sales from paintings will be donated to Heal the Bay. Each painting 24″x36″ and priced at $1500.
- 18×24 inch prints of each original painting on sustainably sourced Bamboo archival paper, hand signed by Erik Abel.The first print, “Kelpafornia”, is available now. The subsequent prints will be released in May and September. Prints are available at online for $40 with 15% of sales benefitting Heal the Bay.
- Ten limited edition 20×30″ prints on solid bamboo of each original painting, hand signed and numbered by Erik Abel.
- 24-ounce aluminum water bottles made in the US from recycled metal featuring the “Kelpafornia” artwork. Manufactured by Liberty Bottles in Yakima, Washington, the bottles are available online for $20. Fifteen percent of sales benefits Heal the Bay.
- A series of four iPhone Cases made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic in Glendale, CA by Tru Protection. The cases are available for the iPhone 4/4S and 5 for $39.95. The “Kelpafornia” design is featured on the newest case to be released. Fifteen percent of sales benefits Heal the Bay.
Abel’s eye-catching work is inspired by the ocean, surfing and travel. The Ventura-based artist uses geometric patterns and bold colors to exude an organic, tribal style. His work has been displayed at galleries nationwide and commissioned for clients including Patagonia, Reef and Billabong, but now Heal the Bay is lucky enough to call this talented artist a partner. Thank you Erik for using your incredible talents to beautify our oceans!
Join us May 16, 2013, for our annual Bring Back the Beach gala.
Visit Erik Abel’s site to learn more about the California artist or shop with Heal the Bay!