Nini Guerrero, 5, of Queen Creek is one of five winners of OdySea Aquarium's fourth annual Conservation Art Challenge.
The challenge is part of the “Party for the Planet” initiatives with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is the largest combined Earth Day, Endangered Species Day and World Oceans Day celebration in North America. OdySea Aquarium said it uses this opportunity to encourage children 12 and under to research and create a land, sea or sky animal using recycled materials.
Beyond the educational aspect, every participant in the challenge received a free child’s admission ticket to OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale. Over the past four years, this contest has attracted thousands of young artists from across the Valley, showcasing a diverse array of masterpieces in all shapes and sizes. This year, OdySea said it received a record-breaking 933 creative animal art entries.
Guerrero showcased her talent and dedication to the environment by creating a stunning work of art representing a grey-headed albatross using cardboard, paper, an egg cage and a juice bottle. The challenge has become a much anticipated summer activity for both Nini and her brother, Sam, who was one of the winners of last year’s contest. The local family said they go together to the library to research their animals and learn about their habitat and environment before creating their works of art for the annual contest.
In addition to receiving a complimentary admission, Guerrero and her immediate family were invited to the aquarium for an exclusive celebration honoring the top five Conservation Art Challenge winners. Fitting for these young artists, all received a one-of-a-kind painting created by an OdySea Aquarium penguin, otter or sea lion. According to OdySea officials, painting gives the animals a form of enrichment, encouraging them to exercise control and choice in their environment, enhancing their overall well-being.
As an added surprise, the winners were given an exclusive opportunity to feed and touch cownose stingrays at Stingray Bay. Despite a few splashy moments, the kids reveled in the unique experience.
The annual Conservation Art Challenge fosters creativity in children and raises awareness about the importance of conservation and OdySea officials commended Guerrero for her understanding of the significance of keeping the environment and wildlife safe.
