Mangroves are one of Florida’s true natives. They thrive in salty environments because they are able to obtain fresh water from saltwater. Some secrete excess salt through their leaves, others block absorption of salt at their roots. There are an estimated 469,000 acres of mangrove forests in Florida that contribute to the overall health of the state’s southern coastal zone. Their importance to marine life cannot be overemphasized. Mangroves provide protected nursery areas for fish, crustaceans, and shellfish. Many animals find shelter either in their root system or in their intricate branches and thick leaves.

In the hands of the Palette Knife Artists of Miami, the mangroves take on a new meaning as they become transformed on canvas in rich colors, dramatic textures, and abstract forms. The nine artists have portrayed the mangroves through their own eyes, always respecting the authenticity of these strange trees that are much more than ornaments of the coastline. We have chosen to call them “Silent Sentinels” as they are the first line of defense against hurricanes and tropical storms in the protection of the Park. As they guard the land, they also offer refuge to numerous birds and sustenance to countless animal species that flourish as a result of the protection they receive from the tree’s roots and branches.

As artists, we have gained a deep respect and admiration for the importance of these “Silent Sentinels.” While it is true that they have sometimes been damaged and destroyed by nature, there is no doubt the human impact has been the most severe. As our show travels, we hope these paintings will serve to highlight and make a difference in the way people view mangroves and join us in our efforts to protect them.