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N.C. Zoo is committed to the creation of a climate that recognizes the potential for artists, art works, and arts programming to enhance the Zoo’s vision and goals. N.C. Zoo is further committed to the creation of an arts program that utilizes art as a "sensory bridge", connecting visitors to the zoo experience and expanding their appreciation and awareness of the natural environment.
Download the Art collection map (PDF, 131K)
Biodiveristy Art Education Activity
by Ellen Greer, Curator of Design
To Involve Artists in Realizing in N.C. Zoo's Conservation Vision
The creative problem solving capabilities and unique insights of artists can substantially contribute to the realization of N.C. Zoo’s conservation mission.
To Make a Connection to the Natural Environment
The introduction of art works and arts programming will cause a primal connection to the natural environment by allowing the visitor to "touch" his or her surroundings, and transcend everyday experiences.
To Preserve the Visual and Environmental Assets of the Zoo's Site
A sensitive integration of art works that respond to, preserve, and enhance the site and the discriminating management of arts programming will demonstrate that N.C. Zoo values the natural beauty of its site, and the total visual impression conveyed to the public.
To Create a Strong Sense of Place and a Positive Identity for N.C. Zoo
A unique sense of place that enlists community pride and ownership can be created by utilizing artworks and art programming as vehicles to cause events and make connections.
To Engage Artists in the Overall Planning and Design of N.C. Zoo
The involvement of artists in the design and planning of the park environment, whether it is for new projects or to solve problems inherent in existing situations, increases the possibilities for the exploration of innovative approaches. An early collaboration between artists, staff, architects, and others allows the artist'’ ideas and solutions to be more effectively integrated into a plan.
To Increase Patronage of New Audiences and Repeat Visitation
The addition of unique art works and arts programming to the Park landscape and repertoire will attract and engage new visitors and give them a variety of reasons to return.
To Promote the Park as a Primary Outdoor Environmental and Educational Resource
The arts will contribute to the potential for N.C. Zoo to be a major center on the East Coast and a primary recreational and educational resource for the community, the state and the southeast region.
To Recognize and Use In-House Planning and Design Resources
By involving the staff artists in collaborative efforts with commissioned artists, as well as other zoo staff, the Zoological Park can fully benefit from their unique visions and utilize their creative problem solving abilities.
To Create Partnerships That Expand the Resources Available to N.C. Zoo
Collaborative efforts with other institution, agencies, and private businesses interested in and supportive of the arts will in effect increase the resources available to N.C. Zoo of the furtherance of its conservation and education goals.
To Implement the Art Program Plan
Opportunities will be created for commissioning art works and arts programming for N.C. Zoo through the consideration of internal funding approaches and through the activities of the Zoological Society in developing private and corporate funding sources.
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N.C. Zoo is a member institution of AZA and an agency of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, William G. Ross Jr. Secretary; Michael F. Easley, Governor. A part of the North Carolina Government portal.
The Zoo is closed Christmas day and during severe weather. Call our information line at: 1-800-488-0444.
