Explore the intertidal zone through the art and science of cyanotype printmaking. This workshop, led by marine scientist, artist, and educator Rose Edwards, invites participants aged 10 and up to create memorable prints using algae, crab molts, and shells. All materials, including two 8.5” x 11” pieces of photosensitive fabric, are provided. The finished products […]
The Shaw Institute is proud to host Forever Ours: PFAS and Plastics, a thought-provoking art exhibition exploring humanity’s complex relationship with persistent materials like microplastics and PFAS. The exhibit, which runs through summer of 2026, opens with a public reception on Saturday, November 22, from 4:00pm – 6:00pm at the Shaw Institute’s Environmental Education Center in downtown Blue […]
THIS EVENT IS FULL. Create a felt holiday ornament at the Shaw Institute's needling workshop! Local artist Reese will lead this hands-on class for parents and kids (ages 8+). Sharp needles are used, so children must be supervised by an adult. All participants creating an ornament must register. Accompanying adults who are not creating an […]
Meet the Shaw Institute’s resident shark, Charlie, at the Ellsworth Public Library on December 1, 2025. He loves to read books to kids about the ocean, teaching them why taking care of the ocean is important for us all. Your school or youth group will find the experience to be engaging and most of all […]
Join plastic pollution expert Dr. Charlie Rolsky at the University of Maine as he talks about how we've changed our relationship status with plastic to, "it's complicated". In this discussion, he'll demystify the truths and myths surrounding our use of this pervasive material, from the hidden dangers of microplastic pollution and its presence in the […]
Come celebrate Valentine's Day at the Shaw Institute! Enjoy Oysters, wine, and cheese (you know those good ol' aphrodisiacs) before our executive director shares an R-rated lecture on how critters find love in the natural world. He’ll speak about interesting mating strategies, wacky habits, strange mate choices, and relationship drama in the animal kingdom. From […]
Celebrate Earth Day with a free, community-powered event that brings together families, local schools, and environmental organizations in a shared commitment to protecting our planet. This year’s special feature is “Dear Community” Kids Letters — an inspiring project where children write letters or create drawings expressing their commitment to the Earth and their community. Submissions […]
Celebrate the first anniversary of our 200-gallon touch tank! With special treats courtesy of our friends at the Blue Chill and Hannaford's. If you've been here before, come rediscover all our critters native to the Gulf of Maine. And if you've never visited, this is the perfect opportunity to take in this amazing hands-on experience. […]
As part part of the Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours series, come visit the Shaw Institute in downtown Blue Hill! Guests can view the touch tank, aquariums, and exhibits. Researchers and volunteers will be available to answer questions and talk about Shaw's work. Additionally, we'll have lab tours every half hour starting at […]
Shaw is participating in Health Kids Day at the Blue Hill YMCA. A day of fun and supporting healthy living for kids of all ages. We'll be providing an ocean-themed activity
Kids are invited to an Ocean Storytime with Charlie the Shark from the Shaw Institute on Saturday, May 2 at 10:30 am. Charlie loves to read books to kids about the ocean and teach them why caring about our oceans is important. Join him for a fun ocean themed story, songs about the ocean and a fun […]
Dr. Charlie Rolsky, Executive Director of the Shaw Institute, will present the latest research from the Shaw Institute on the impact of plastics on human health, PFAS contamination, and innovative coastal monitoring efforts. His talk will delve into the complex reality of plastic pollution, offering insights into a more sustainable future and highlighting the importance […]