ON THE EDGE OF THE PACIFIC
SANCTUARY EXPLORATION CENTER · SANTA CRUZ

The Sanctuary Exploration Center in Santa Cruz is excited to launch a new art show by Monica Loncola GNSI, “On the Edge of the Pacific.” The display celebrates the vibrant creatures of the intertidal zone, and features watercolor scenes Monica captured while travelling aboard the Western Flyer’s recent expedition to the Gulf of California!

The show’s opening reception is Friday, July 18th, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and will feature presentations from Monica Loncola on her artistic process, and from Sherry Flumerfelt, Executive Director of the Western Flyer Foundation, highlighting how this famous vessel stirs curiosity in marine biology and ocean exploration research.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and presentations begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Sanctuary Exploration Center, located at 35 Pacific Ave in Santa Cruz. No reservations required, seating for the presentation portion of the event is first-come, first-serve. Light refreshments will be served.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

This spring, artist Monica Loncola accompanied the Western Flyer, retracing the legendary voyage of John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts to the Sea of Cortez. A science illustrator and visual artist, Monica holds a BFA in Studio Arts and a Master’s Certification in Science Illustration from CSUMB. She was selected as an intern with the Western Flyer Foundation during the summer of 2024 as part of her degree requirements. This new body of work—inspired by her affiliation with the Western Flyer Foundation and her experience on this voyage to the Sea of Cortez—celebrates the vibrant biodiversity found in the tidal zones and explores the intersection of art, science, and storytelling. Her work will be featured at the Sanctuary Exploration Center from July 16th – August 31st.