Park Hours 9 AM - 5 PM
MĀʻALAEA, MAUI, HI January 25, 2022- Maui Ocean Center’s world-class gift shop, Maui Ocean Treasures, has just launched a new line of sustainable products featuring artwork from Hawaiʻi-born artist Jana Ireijo. A portion of sales from the Vanishing Mural line will go directly to the Marine Institute at Maui Ocean Center (MOCMI) to support their coral restoration efforts. MOCMI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to inspiring environmental stewardship and ensuring the survival of coral reefs and sea turtles in Hawaiʻi through science-based conservation efforts, education, and outreach.
The inspiration for the line stems from Ireijo’s powerful Mural Ethos: Vanishing Mural series, one of which resides at Maui Ocean Center’s Nalu Lawn. The Nature Conservancy commissioned the piece for Maui Ocean Center in April 2021 to demonstrate both the beauty and fragility of coral reefs in Hawaiʻi’s oceans. The mural showcases a thriving, colorful reef and is intentionally placed outdoors to vanish over time at the mercy of the elements. This deliberate degradation is designed to generate a visceral effect of witnessing something so beautiful vanish before your eyes.
In 2014, 30% of coral reefs were lost in the state of Hawaiʻi as a result of a devastating heatwave, and coral bleaching continues to occur at an alarming rate worldwide. Many are unaware that corals provide protection for our coasts, mitigate flood risk, and are a vital source of food and shelter for reef fish. Maui Ocean Center hopes to spread awareness of the plights our reefs face, and educate guests on how they can support marine conservation.
The Vanishing Mural product line was created to inspire the public to act in whatever ways they can to protect our reefs for our future generations. Patrons can shop various products with Ireijo’s work, including tote bags made from recycled materials, 100% cotton t-shirts, UV protective sun shirts made from recycled plastic bottles, and more.
The mission behind these murals that Ireijo creates is a simple, yet urgent call, “let the murals vanish so our natural environment does not.”
Visit https://mauioceancenter.com/shop/ for more information about Maui Ocean Treasures, or to place your order today.
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