LBI Library Branch Show To Feature Ocean-Inspired Art

SURF CITY, NJ — Surf City residents and visitors can see a new art exhibit this summer at the Long Beach Island Branch of the Ocean County Library.

"Washed Upon the Shore" will be on display from June 3 to July 31 in the branch meeting room, according to the library's announcement.

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The exhibit features work from Coastal Luck Studio, created by New York/New Jersey-based artist Alexander Taylor. The library said Taylor's work highlights the power of the ocean and invites viewers to reflect, connect and remember that water is tied to life and renewal.

Taylor describes his artistic philosophy as "empathy, ecology, and the interconnectedness of life. Ecosystem over egotism." The announcement said his Mediterranean heritage influences his work as he explores the beauty, power and vulnerability of marine life.

Taylor was born in Flushing, Queens, and works as a visual artist and actor. He holds a B.A. in Communications and Media Arts and a minor in Theatre from SUNY New Paltz, according to the announcement. The library said his multidisciplinary background informs his nature-driven work.

The announcement also said Taylor is entirely self-taught and draws inspiration from the sea, especially the Atlantic Ocean. It said he often incorporates the ocean directly into his process by painting with purified ocean water.

Taylor founded Coastal Luck Studio in 2020 and shares his work through the studio's website and Instagram, according to the announcement.

"Washed Upon the Shore" is free and open to the public during the branch's normal operating hours. The Long Beach Island Branch is at 217 South Central Ave. in Surf City. For more information, the library said, call 609-494-2480 or visit the branch.