Hampton, VA, May 23, 2025 – A striking new turtle sculpture named “MORRIS” was officially unveiled at Bluebird Gap Farm today, capping off a multi-year collaboration among local students, educators, artists, and environmental organizations. This innovative community-driven project is intended to raise awareness about environmental conservation while inspiring the next generation of eco-conscious citizens.
The project, which began in spring 2022, was born from a shared vision between Hampton’s local environmental commissions, educators, and nonprofits to create a meaningful symbol of sustainability. The idea was simple yet powerful: build an engaging, educational art installation that could teach visitors about wildlife protection and ecological responsibility. MORRIS, the turtle sculpture, embodies that mission.
A Youth-Led Creative Initiative
High school students from the Governor’s STEM Academy for Architecture, Environment, and Engineering at Kecoughtan High School played a leading role in the design and construction of MORRIS. Under the guidance of teachers, architects, and local makerspace experts, these students dedicated months of research, planning, and hands-on labor to bring the sculpture to life.
Using recycled and sustainable materials, the students crafted a life-sized turtle model with impressive detail. The design incorporates educational panels about local wildlife, environmental threats, and the importance of reducing human impact on natural habitats. The sculpture is not just a piece of art, but a learning station that invites visitors to interact with environmental themes in an accessible and visually engaging format.
Community Collaboration at Its Best
The turtle sculpture is the result of extensive collaboration between several community partners, including the Hampton Clean City Commission, Bluebird Gap Farm, Peninsula Master Naturalists, and 757 Makerspace. Together, these organizations provided logistical support, mentorship, and funding to ensure the success of the project.
The official unveiling was held on Earth Day, April 26, 2025, and attended by dozens of residents, students, educators, and local leaders. Today’s recognition ceremony marks the sculpture’s formal dedication and inclusion in the permanent public exhibit at Bluebird Gap Farm.
At the dedication, officials lauded the project as a shining example of community engagement. Local leaders highlighted the importance of environmental education in shaping responsible future citizens. The sentiment was echoed by educators who praised the students’ creativity and commitment to environmental stewardship.
Educational Tool with Long-Term Impact
More than just a visual centerpiece, MORRIS will now serve as an interactive teaching tool for the thousands of families and school groups who visit Bluebird Gap Farm annually. Visitors will be able to explore exhibits around the sculpture that discuss turtle species native to Virginia, threats to their survival, and actions individuals can take to protect them.
Educators have already begun incorporating MORRIS into their curriculum for field trips and environmental science lessons. The hope is that MORRIS will encourage students to think critically about conservation while offering a tangible example of how art and science can come together for public good.
Inspiring Future Environmental Leaders
The project’s success is already sparking interest from other communities. Discussions are underway to replicate the initiative in neighboring school districts, potentially creating a regional network of student-led environmental art projects.
Organizers believe that giving students the opportunity to lead and shape projects like MORRIS equips them with more than just academic skills. It instills a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and the realization that their ideas and actions can make a real-world difference.
As MORRIS settles into its new home, it stands not only as a testament to environmental education and artistic innovation but also as a vibrant symbol of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision of sustainability and learning.