Will Sanibel’s “Manatee Madness” surpass some of these creations?
Next time you head to Ocean’s Reach, don’t be surprised if you pass some fun landlubber manatees along the way!
It’s all part of Manatee Madness, the new fundraiser recently announced by the islands’ Community Housing & Resources (CHR).
Starting in early December, more than a dozen specially designed manatees — each painted or otherwise enhanced by a local artist — will appear in select locations on Sanibel and Captiva to benefit CHR’s mission to provide affordable housing for individuals working and living on the islands.
The manatees will be on display through March and then auctioned off. Individuals and businesses that sponsor a manatee will be able to choose where to display the manatee, subject to certain city limitations. A map with the sponsored locations will be available for residents and visitors to embark on a self-guided, self-paced tour of the manatees with fun photo opportunities.
“We are thrilled that so many of our renowned and talented local artists are donating their creativity, time and energy to this project,” CHR Executive Director Melissa Rice said. “I’ve heard a few of the ideas so far, and while I can’t reveal anything before the manatees go on display, I can say that Sanibel is going to be graced by some extraordinary works of art.”
For more information, contact Melissa Rice at [email protected].
And speaking of fun manatee mailboxes, be sure to check out the creativity displayed here!
