This past school year, King Philip Middle School’s Art Club partnered with Southwick’s Zoo to contribute original artwork to a new educational garden focused on wildlife conservation.

On Friday, June 6, members of the King Philip Middle School Art for Advocacy Club, led by art teacher and advisor Arianne Barrett, visited Southwick’s Zoo in Mendon to deliver their completed artwork. The pieces will be featured as permanent signage in the zoo’s upcoming education garden, which is set to open behind the new EARTH Ltd. building this fall.

The project began with students researching native Massachusetts wildlife. Using their findings, the club designed vibrant educational signs to inform zoo visitors about local species and inspire them to take action to protect these species. In addition to the physical signs, students created a companion website filled with conservation tips and wildlife facts: Colors of Conservation.

In recognition of their contributions, Southwick’s Zoo presented the students with a certificate of appreciation. The zoo also organized a special behind-the-scenes encounter where students met and learned about a snake, an armadillo and a porcupine. The students’ visit concluded with time to explore the zoo and see how their work will support its educational mission.

“This project is a beautiful example of how art and education can come together to support environmental awareness and conservation,” said Barrett. “We are so proud of our students for using their creativity to make a real-world impact.”

EARTH Ltd. is a nonprofit conservation and education organization based at Southwick’s Zoo. Through educational programs, advocacy, and fundraising, EARTH Ltd. supports both local and global conservation efforts.