Wyland: Art For The Oceans

Robert Wyland is an artistic force to be reckoned with.  You've probably seen his paintings and photography, along with some of his sculptures, at some retail venues; and, if you're fortunate, you have also had the opportunity to view some of his murals, which are also known as Whaling Walls.  This incredible artist was born in Detroit, Michigan - as a tribute to his local community, his 25th Whaling Wall graces a high school pool area.  Whether you're familiar with Wyland's works, or if you're new to the world of ocean art, you're certain to enjoy this look at Wyland's career and works. 

The Career of a Passionate Artist

Robert Wyland makes it his mission not just to render incredibly lifelike images of whales and other marine life through his paintings and sculptures, and to share views of the oceans and the underwater world via his photography; he also works to raise awareness, with a steady focus on marine life conservation.  Wyland has hosted a number of television programs, through which he engages people from all walks of life, and through which he promotes environmentally lifestyles.  His unforgettable images have graced the National Mall in Washington DC, and they've even made their way onto a series of international postage stamps.  

Through the Wyland Foundation, people all over the United States are rediscovering the importance of healthy waterways and clean oceans; since 1993, the foundation has helped millions gain greater understanding of issues affecting the world's water and wildlife. 

Wyland's Whaling Walls

While some of Wyland's Whaling walls, including his first, a mural in Laguna Beach, CA, titled Grey Whale and Calf, have been tiled in an effort to conserve them for the future, a number are "extinct", either due to the ravages of time, or due to building renovations and other factors.  This seems fitting in a way, since the living beings depicted in Wyland's art are at risk of extinction themselves.  A few of the best which are currently in good condition and available for public viewing include the following: 

• #10, Manatees - Located at Terminal A, in the Orlando International Airport in Florida.

• #33, Planet Ocean - This holds the record as the World's Largest Mural.  You can see it at the Long Beach Arena, in Long Beach, California. 

• #52, Florida's Living Reef - You can see this incredibly colorful mural at The Waterfront Market, at the intersection of Carolina and William Streets, in Key West, Florida. 

• #56, Vancouver Island Orcas - Restored for the Vancouver Olympics, this classic Wyland mural is located at 1390 Granville Street in downtown Vancouver, BC.   

• #85, New Millennium - This lovely mural graces the side of the Pacific Airport Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. 

These are just a few of Wyland's murals - you'll find others all across the United States and Canada.  Others are located in Japan, England, China, and Brazil.  If you come across a Wyland mural while traveling, be sure to get a photo, and take a few minutes to enjoy the amazing colors and incredible details this artist incorporates into his massive works of art.  After all, murals are often temporary!