This 6.8 square mile coastal city is self-proclaimed “Home of the Manatee” and known for its world-class fishing, pristine waterways, and breathtaking views. Visitors from all over the world come year-round and the community local economies thrive on this tourism. It also relies on the Florida Wildlife Corridor for clean, healthy waters and wildlife populations. Learn about the importance of the Crystal River Connection, get to know our first mural artist, and see (or join) the partners who support the Crystal River Mural.

Kelly Quinn is a Florida-based artist and the Art Director for Canvas of the Wild. Born and raised in the sunshine state on the headwaters of the Everglades, Kelly’s passion for nature was sparked in childhood and has inspired her career as a professional artist dedicated to communicating science through the power of art.

“ I was born and raised on the headwaters of the Everglades, where I learned the land and water were a part of my identity, and the charismatic animals I shared my home with were my fellow neighbors, all of which had a story worthy of being shared. Today, I use art to communicate these wild stories and highlight the underlying science behind each inspiration to help form deeper connections between people and nature.”

Co-founded in 2018 by Kelly Quinn and Blake Wheeler, Canvas of the Wild is a creative design, development, and publishing studio focused on supporting STEAM education.

Canvas of the Wild engages individuals with environmental science through the creative process. Its mission is to help individuals see their relationship with a subject differently and inspire them to explore new perspectives through infographics, books, workshops, and interactive environments.