Making ceramic horseshoe crabs is Mark Rea’s full-time job. His work is a tribute to an old friend and an ancient species.

About fifteen years ago, Mark found a small horseshoe crab molt while kayaking in Rhode Island. Something struck him that day about this one small, deserted shell so he made a plaster mold, cast it in porcelain, and glazed it clear until it was bright white. Everyone seemed to love it, so he just kept going, and the colors he applies to some are simply stunning.

Now, for two months, you can enjoy and view Mark’s incredible exhibit in our Naturescape Gallery, as well as in conjunction with celebrating International Horseshoe Crab Day on Monday, June 20th and during the entire week of activities emphasizing the importance of this ancient animal.