Mastic Beach Conservancy launches Ecology Art Lab

Mastic Beach Conservancy recently hosted its Recycled Oyster Ornament Workshop on Dec. 13, 2025, at the MMS Community Library in Shirley.

The event marked the first workshop in Mastic Beach Conservancy’s new Ecology Art Lab series, an ongoing initiative that blends creativity, environmental education, and community connection.

Led by artist Christie Jones, participants of all ages painted, and transformed reclaimed oyster shells into coastal ornaments and decorative keepsakes. The shells were recycled from Mastic Beach Conservancy’s fourth annual Bivalve Ball fundraiser, diverting them from landfills and giving new life to oyster shells that once grew in local waters and supported the health of local marine ecosystems. Using non-toxic, handmade paints, participants engaged in environmentally responsible artmaking while learning about the vital role oysters play in improving water quality. The workshop brought together participants in a welcoming, intergenerational setting, reinforcing the idea that environmental stewardship can be both creative and accessible.

“Bringing people together, building genuine connections, and learning about environmental awareness through a creative, hands-on experience can be impactful at any age. Whether you’re a kid or an adult looking for a sense of connection, it’s here—and that shared experience, love for our shoreline, and what we do as an organization is what makes Mastic Beach Conservancy so special,” said Jessamyn Go, board member of Mastic Beach Conservancy and director of Ecology Art Lab.

Each session invites local residents and Conservancy members to participate in hands-on, nature-inspired creative projects led by local artists. By offering inclusive, accessible art experiences, the program strengthens community bonds, fosters environmental awareness, and deepens personal investment in Mastic Beach Conservancy’s mission to protect and enhance local natural resources.