Patrick Ching named Artist in Residence for Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary

NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary named marine artist Patrick Ching as its Sanctuary Artist in Residence for 2021-2022.

“I am thankful and honored to be the Sanctuary Artist in Residence,” Ching said. “I look forward to working to make good things happen that will support the goals of NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.”

The Sanctuary Artist in Residence recognizes a professional artist who works with the sanctuary to help further their mission of protection for humpback whales in Hawaiian waters. Previous artists who have donated their time, energies and art expertise to help promote the sanctuary and its work include American contemporary artist Robert Lyn Nelson. 

“We are honored, thrilled and excited about working with someone of Patrick Ching’s caliber,” said Allen Tom, superintendent of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. “As an artist, his work is instantly recognized throughout Hawai‘i, and as a naturalist/biologist he has a unique understanding of the importance and significance of marine and terrestrial wildlife” 

Throughout 2021, Patrick will work on a number of projects including hosting a webinar for teachers and students on how to draw Hawaiian marine wildlife, a marine wildlife mural on Kauaʻi and possibly a visit to neighbor island communities of Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi where the sanctuary has pre-existing partnerships with community groups.  Activities will remain flexible, depending on restrictions presented by COVID-19.

In March 2021, the sanctuary, in conjunction with the Waikīkī Aquarium, will host a two day Ocean Classroom Teachers workshop. A webinar will follow, which will be hosted by Patrick with lessons on how to draw marine wildlife. 

The sanctuary is administered by a partnership of NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and the State of Hawai‘i through the Division of Aquatic Resources. The sanctuary works to protect humpback whales through research, education, conservation and stewardship.