Artist Patrick Ching (top left) will share his passion for art and nature as the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary’s 2021-22 artist in residence. Photo courtesy Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary

NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary recently named marine artist Patrick Ching as its 2021-22 artist in residence.

The sanctuary recognizes professional artists who work with the sanctuary to help further their mission of protection for humpback whales in Hawaiian waters. Previous artists who have donated their time, energy and artistic expertise to help promote the sanctuary and its work include contemporary artist Robert Lyn Nelson.

Ching will work on a number of projects throughout 2021, including hosting a webinar for teachers and students on how to draw Hawaiian marine wildlife, a marine wildlife mural on Kauai and a possible visit to Molokai and Lanai where the sanctuary has preexisting partnerships with community groups.

“We are honored, thrilled and excited about working with someone of Patrick Ching’s caliber,” said Allen Tom, superintendent of the marine sanctuary. “As an artist, his work is instantly recognized throughout Hawaii, and as a naturalist/biologist, he has a unique understanding of the importance and significance of marine and terrestrial wildlife.”