Friend,
I wanted to share one of the projects I’ve been immersed in over the past few years. It all began with the restoration of the preserve behind my studio. The area was overrun with invasive plant species and litter, but I envisioned something better. With dedication, I cleared the debris and planted over 700 native plants, hoping to create a sanctuary for local birds and wildlife and contribute to manatee conservation.
Among the plants, I included wire grass along the shoreline. I knew it was a food source for manatees, but I didn’t realize just how significant it would become. Manatees need warm water to survive, so during the winter months, they migrate to shallow, sheltered areas to stay warm. To my delight, the preserve behind my studio became a perfect winter refuge. The restoration had transformed it into a haven, and soon, manatees began making it their seasonal home.
Word of these visitors spread quickly. So much so that Meghan McRoberts, a reporter from WPTV, came by the studio to talk about this unique connection between the preserve and the manatees.
Inspired to learn more about these gentle giants, I packed up my film gear and traveled to the freshwater springs of central Florida. These springs provide manatees with the warm, clear water they need during the colder months. On a brisk morning, I set out on the Homosassa River, paddling across its glassy, steam-shrouded surface. The air temperature was about 40 degrees, and the experience felt like stepping back in time to a quieter, untouched Florida.
Eventually, I encountered a large group of manatees. Slipping off my paddleboard into the water, I was struck by their immense size. Up close, while snorkeling beside them, their scale was truly humbling—adult manatees average over nine feet in length and weigh between 880 and 1,200 pounds! But what surprised me even more was their curiosity. One by one, they approached, as if to introduce themselves, gently inspecting this odd visitor in their world.
Swimming among these peaceful creatures was an incredible honor and one of the most unforgettable animal encounters of my life. Their calm demeanor and gentle presence filled me with hope. I dream of a future where we continue to improve the environment for them and for countless other creatures who depend on healthy ecosystems. My greatest wish is that future generations will have the chance to swim with these friendly “sea cows,” just as I did.
Please take a moment to watch the video below, Manatee Reflections, where I share more of this journey.
If you're ever in Stuart, feel free to stop by the studio - I'd love to connect and share more about the art and stories that inspire me.
Be well, be safe, be loved.
-- Geoffrey
Manatee Adventure
Painting Spotlight
Sculpture Spotlight
“Look deep into nature,
and then you will understand everything better”
– Albert Einstein
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