The Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS) and the Masterworks Foundation are currently hosting a student art competition designed to bring together art and science learning in the classroom.

The competition is open to all Bermuda students, ages P4 through Secondary, and the deadline for submissions is November 30. The students' work will be exhibited next January at BIOS in conjunction with the Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO) conference, where notable attending scientists will assist with judging the entries. A reception and prize-giving at the Ferry Reach facility is set for January 10.

"For centuries, art has been used to convey scientific concepts," BIOS education officer JP Skinner said. "Artists have drawn exact pictures of newly discovered species, built models to represent natural systems, and have painted their impressions of wonders of the world. The competition encourages local students to share their artistic impressions of the marine world based on the themes of the 2007 BIOS Explorer programme, 'On the Rock'.

Students are invited to explore marine science themes of coral reefs, caves, the deep-ocean and global climate change. These themes can be translated into any sort of medium, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture or photography. Individual and group projects are encouraged for middle and secondary school students and group projects are encouraged from upper Primary. "'Where Art and Science Meet' is a fantastic opportunity for students to take a closer look at the natural environment which exists in Bermuda, as well as examining the environmental issues surrounding the preservation of the Island's natural habitats," Masterworks' education coordinator Carrie Zenti said. "Students translating their insights into a creative outlet can be a powerful tool to enriched learning. Sharing the students' art with the community will serve to educate as well as inspire. The student art exhibition can bring attention to the beauty, mystery and relevant issues that are a part of the marine heritage of Bermuda. We encourage all teachers looking to introduce marine science concepts in a creative way to explore this avenue. Masterworks is excited to partner with BIOS on this student initiative, working in cooperation with another organisation dedicated to facilitating youth learning opportunities."

Awards for each category include scholarships to the 'Waterstart Marine Programme' at BIOS, memberships to BIOS and Masterworks, and provision of art supplies. The winning art will be featured on the BIOS Marine Science Day, 2008 poster and T-shirt. Interested teachers are requested to contact Monica Anderson at 504-8820 to receive an information package, or to visit website www.bermudamasterworks.com and click on 'Events' for details and entry forms. Entry forms can be downloaded at website www.bios.edu.