For Immediate Release, August 30, 2023

Contact: Emily Bishton, Arivaca Pollinator Pathway, arivacapollinatorpathway@gmail.com 

Dynamic, 3-D Mural Unveiling Sunday in Arizona 

Mural Series Commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act

Arivaca, Ariz. – The Endangered Species Coalition, our member organizations, and the Arivaca Pollinator Pathway Project are pleased to announce the unveiling of a 3-dimensional, community mural featuring native endangered and threatened species in different settings. The mural unveiling and celebration is part of a series commemorating the 50th year of the Endangered Species Act. Festivities begin Sunday, September 3rd at 11:00 am and will run until 4:00 pm at the Arivaca Dancehall, 17271 W. 5th St. in Arivaca, Ariz.

This event will feature the dedication of our new mural, created by artist Paul ‘Nox’ Pablo, and complementing our Pollinator Pathway project by depicting images of local, native plants and animals. We’re honored that the celebratory event will include special guests from Tohono O’odham Nation and its Cultural Center and Museum, who will provide a presentation and receive returned local Tribal artifacts.  The event will be capped off with a performance by legendary Waila musicians Gertie and the T.O. Boys, who have entertained audiences and been cultural ambassadors for the Tohono O’odham Nation throughout the US for decades. 

About ESA AT 50 

In 2023, the 50th anniversary provides a unique, year-long opportunity to build support for the Endangered Species Act and imperiled species by celebrating conservation achievements, highlighting conservation needs, and generally reminding the public and decision-makers why plants, fish, and wildlife are beloved and vital to the heritage we share as Americans. Just as in 1973, an unprecedented coalition of agencies, organizations, and nonprofits are coming together to commemorate this conservation legacy. Find out more about the coalition, events and activities at https://esa50.org/ 

About the Arivaca Pollinator Pathway Project

The Arivaca Pollinator Pathway is a volunteer-driven project to build public gardens in the small town of Arivaca to provide a linked pathway of habitat for Monarchs and other butterflies, bees, bats, and other pollinators.  In addition, to grow local knowledge and understanding about the importance of pollinators and how to provide good habitat for them, through free garden classes and experiential learning.

The project has also grown to include the creation of a beautiful new mural that depicts pollinators and other species that are endangered or threatened in the region of Southern Arizona that includes Arivaca and the Tohono O’odham Nation.  The 3-sided mural is surrounded by one of the Pollinator Pathway gardens, and its unique design takes viewers on a day and night journey through the natural habitat of this region.

The Pollinator Pathway Project is a collaboration between the Arivaca Dancehall, the Teen Advisory Board (TAB) of the Friends of the Arivaca Caviglia Library, and fiscal sponsor Arivaca Human Resource.

Find out more about the project’s events and activities.

For Immediate Release, May 12, 2023

Contacts

Israel Chavez, Doña Ana Village Association, donaanavillageassociation@gmail.com
Jeanne Dodds, Endangered Species Coalition, jdodds@endangered.org 360.624.8653

New Mexico Mural Celebrating Biodiversity Unveiled by Local Artists, Partners

Mural Series to Commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act

Doña Ana, N.M.—  A collaboration of artists and partners will unveil the first in a series of murals to commemorate the 50th year of the Endangered Species Act on May 19th, at 3:00 pm in Doña Ana, New Mexico. The event will feature a community celebration with creative activities for youth and opportunities to watch the mural in progress. Migration: A Natural Act is a striking portrayal of the natural magnificence of southwestern New Mexico, with a particular focus on its imperiled fauna. 

The mural, located at 135 Joe Gutierrez Street, Doña Ana (Las Cruces), New Mexico, highlights the Boreal Owl, Gila Monster, and two endangered fish species –  the Chihuahua Chub and Roundtail Chub. Migration is a recurring theme of the artwork, with the river symbolizing the innate movement of humans and animals across the landscape. The river depicted in the mural is a potent force, breathing new life into the terrain and restoring its vitality. In the mural’s corners, one can observe the towering cottonwood trees, which are indigenous to the Doña Ana community and serve as a poignant reminder of the region’s rich natural heritage.

“Despite the obstacles faced by the endangered species depicted in the mural, the artwork’s overarching message is one of hope. It conveys that through diligent effort and unwavering commitment, it is conceivable to re-establish equilibrium in the ecosystem and revive the region’s vitality,” said artist Raquel Madrigal. “The mural is a beautiful tribute to the significance of preserving the natural world and its diverse fauna.”

The Endangered Species Act 50th Anniversary mural series will spotlight regional ecological and cultural diversity within the US by highlighting plants and animals that are protected by the Endangered Species Act. Species that are currently listed and in danger of extinction will be featured as well as some species who have recovered thanks to this landmark legislation. Murals will be installed throughout 2023 at regional locations across the US, including in Oregon, Arizona, Massachusetts, Florida and in other states.

About the Artist

Raquel Madrigal is an interdisciplinary artist with a degree in Fine Arts, who is widely known for her captivating murals, posters and zines that incorporate her unique poetry. Her murals, in particular, have garnered attention for their powerful narrative highlighting the struggles and triumphs of working-class families as well as the endangered species in Southern New Mexico.

About Doña Ana Village Association

The Doña Ana Village Association (DAVA) was founded in 2021 as a result of several community conversations which demonstrated a serious need for community organizing and representation. The Village of Doña Ana is the oldest federally designated Colonia in southern New Mexico, and its representation is limited to legislators and county commissioners. 

About ESA at 50

In 2023, the 50th anniversary provides a unique, year-long opportunity to build support for the Endangered Species Act and imperiled species by celebrating conservation achievements, highlighting conservation needs, and generally reminding the public and decision-makers why plants, fish, and wildlife are beloved and vital to the heritage we share as Americans. Just as in 1973, an unprecedented coalition of agencies, organizations, and nonprofits are coming together to commemorate this conservation legacy.

Stay up to date with the Mural

In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act we’ve launched a new, collaborative call for youth artists grades K-12: Collaborating for Wildlife and Plants: ESA at 50.

To support your participation, we’ve been working on a set of helpful resources and ideas for media and lessons for groups of two or more K-12 youth. You can use these resources to develop projects celebrating the successes and importance of the Endangered Species Act for our irreplaceable wildlife and plant species.

You’ll find those resources at Collaborating for Wildlife and Plants: ESA at 50, along with suggestions for media to use for your artwork and creative, collaborative possibilities..

Please visit our webpage for complete eligibility guidelines, wildlife and plant lists, and image requirements for the submission of artworks. You can submit artwork using the linked form on that page!

The Call to Artist submission platform closes to entries on April 21st, 2023.

May 19th, 2023 Endangered Species Day launch of virtual gallery of multimedia works included in Collaborating for Wildlife and Plants: ESA at 50

We can’t wait to see the collaborative projects you create! Thank you for your participation in this important celebration of the Endangered Species Act 50th Anniversary.