Santa Cruz Wharf 100th anniversary Saturday slates Wyland appearance

Renowned marine artist and conservationist Wyland will be painting a mural and leading a kid’s mural event at the Santa Cruz Wharf’s 100th anniversary this Saturday, May 17, on the Santa Cruz wharf between 1 and 4 p.m.

The artist is creating an 8 by 8 mural that will be given to the city to use in a public space. The kid’s mural event is open to all children. Wyland will teach kids about ocean conservation and show them some pointers about painting ocean life.

The Wyland appearance is in conjunction with the Santa Cruz Wharf 100-year celebration. Saturday’s Sanctuary Celebration from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. is a free event. Organizers say there will be free live music, arts and crafts, educational activities and short eco-tours of the wharf and much more.

There will also be talks by Congressman Sam Farr and former Secretary of Defense Leon S. Panetta. Additionally, there will be commentary by Dan Haifley and Paul Michel on the role of the wharf.

Wyland is in the Monterey Bay area for two personal appearances at the Wyland Galleries in Carmel, May 16 and 17 from 6-10 p.m. each night.

The Santa Cruz Wharf sanctuary event is being presented by Friends of Parks and Recreation and the Santa Cruz Wharf Outreach Network.