A traveling photography exhibit that helps consumers visualize the work that goes into the state’s growing oyster industry will be on display in the North Carolina Coastal Federation’s Wrightsville Beach office during August.
A collaborative project of North Carolina Sea Grant and the NC Oyster Trail, the exhibit, “Advancing Shellfish Mariculture Literacy in North Carolina,” features the work of Raleigh-based photographer Justin Kase Conder.
An opening reception is scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13. Light refreshments and beverages will be provided. Though not required, organizers ask those who plan to attend to RSVP online.
“This inspiring exhibit highlights the hardworking individuals behind North Carolina’s growing oyster industry and honors the ecological, cultural, and economic value of oysters to our coast,” organizers said.
Conder has more than 27 years of experience as a photographer, traveling to more than 40 countries where he honed his skills.
“To be able to go out on the water, experience wild and farmed oyster harvest, and document the process in a way that helps other North Carolinians understand what goes into getting these oysters to their plate—that was not only an incredible experience for me personally, it was deeply rewarding,” Conder said in a release.
During the reception, Conder will share behind-the-scenes stories from his time photographing oyster farmers, harvesters, entrepreneurs and chefs across the state.
Dr. Jane Harrison, coastal economics specialist with North Carolina Sea Grant and coordinator of the NC Oyster Trail, and Mandy Uticone, owner of Carolina Beach Oyster Co. will join Conder at the exhibit opening.
Harrison will discuss the vital role oysters play in North Carolina’s coastal economies and share insights into the NC Oyster Trail’s efforts to promote sustainable seafood tourism and support the state’s shellfish industry.
Uticone will share her firsthand experiences as an oyster grower, talk about the realities of working on the water, and answer oyster-related questions.
Contact Harrison at jane_harrison@ncsu.edu for information or to host the exhibit.
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