Kevin Engelbert

Keep Your Shell Above the Water

Growing up in the bustling city of Chicago, I did not experience marine life or the serenity of natural environments like Apalachicola Bay. However, when I set foot in this mesmerizing ecosystem, I knew that I had to capture its beauty through my art. What started as a personal endeavor to share with my loved ones has now become my passion. As a marine biogeochemistry researcher, I am fortunate to work out of FSU’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory and explore the intertidal wetlands and oyster reefs found in the area and document the peace and enigma they hold. These wetlands are not only tranquil, but they also play a significant role in the area’s ecosystem. They boast incredible biodiversity and carbon sequestration unparalleled to their footprint size on Earth. Unfortunately, the once thriving and renowned oyster population of the region has dwindled, sparking restoration and research interests regionwide. In my piece, “Keep Your Shell Above the Water,” I focus on an isolated driftwood in a salt marsh channel that has accumulated dozens of oysters growing on it. This piece of driftwood has more oysters growing on it than some intertidal oyster reefs of the region can boast. To me, it’s a symbol of opportunity and perseverance.

My primary medium is photography using a Canon EOS Rebel T6 and sometimes my cell phone, and I use light editing in Photoshop to highlight the natural beauty of the scenery. I sometimes add an oil canvas stylization to my photos to give them a softer look. For aspiring photographers, I encourage them not to focus on buying the latest and most expensive equipment, but rather to embrace the unique character that older cameras can offer. I hope that my art can promote a respite and inspire others to explore the wilderness just an hour south of the FSU campus. It is my desire that my art will spark a deeper appreciation for nature and encourage us all to be responsible stewards of our environment.

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
- Ferris Bueller

Artwork Description

Oysters (Crassostrea virginica) growing on a piece of driftwood at Pilot’s Cove, Little St. George Island. Taken on October 31, 2022.