About the Design

Mark Klingler: "This design is inspired by the fleeting qualities of nature itself. Just as the dinosaurs have disappeared from the earth, many species are becoming extinct during our lifetime.

When becoming aware of this dinosaur project, I decided to adorn a former creature of the land with what we consider our most delicate of today's butterflies, all of which can be found in Western Pennsylvania and most of which are endangered. Today, we have conservation programs to protect the natural resources of our communities, states, and national regions, but that is not enough. Many areas of our planet suffer from poachers, development, pollution, and other selfish ideals for revenue.

Though I trust a colorful dinosaur will not solve the dilemma, perhaps these extinct critters, adorned with living beauty we still have close to us, will help people appreciate what they find in their yards, parks, and public lands. I hope the diversity in forms of these endangered butterflies allows people to realize that what we have now is worth protecting and nurturing."

About the Sponsor

The Oakbridge Academy of Arts specializes in career educational opportunities and training for the student who wants to gain the working knowledge necessary to succeed in today's competitive visual arts society.

The curricula at Oakbridge are designed to offer students a concentrated study. Our approach to career education provides each individual with the training to realize their growth potential. The Academy works with each student on an individual basis towards competency as a commercial artist or professional photographer.   www.oaa.edu

Staff & Faculty Involved: Janie Gatti, Michelle Huot, Mark Lowe, Mark Klingler, Cliff McGuire, Tom Gallovich, Carol Ann Krause

Student Artists: Maxime Racaud, Sarah Henson, Damon Zimmerly, Rachel Beall, Robert Mowery, Jonathan Dellecave, Mark Warkaske, Jessica Barton, Jon Lanham, Lee Unger, Kristy Rametta, Jennifer Carr, John Zumo, Dennis Miller, Carrie Fox