Studio Blue

Studio Blue is a dynamic multimedia learning commons located on the Narragansett Bay Campus, dedicated to coastal and ocean-themed art and science. Here, artists and students showcase their work, creating a unique environment where the fusion of art and science deepens emotional engagement and enhances holistic learning. The visual richness of the space enhances the experience of hundreds of visiting guests year-round.

The Studio is hosted by the Coastal Institute and coordinated by a committee of volunteers representing ocean and coastal educational groups at the University of Rhode Island, including

  • URI Coastal Institute: Amber Neville, Jackie Witterschein
  • URI Graduate School of Oceanography: Peter Hanlon
  • URI Graduate School of Oceanography, Chowder and Marching: Jason Noel
  • Coastal Resources Center: Sarah Gaines
  • URI Inner Space Center: Alex DeCiccio, Patrick Flanagan
  • Rhode Island Sea Grant: Monica Allard-Cox

These volunteers ensure the continued success and vibrancy of Studio Blue.

Current Exhibit

The Synergy Project: A Collaboration of Art and Science

Artwork credit: “Sensual Data” by Cynthia Beth Rubin, in collaboration with URI Professor of Oceanography Susanne Menden-Deuer and Andria Miller, ’23.

Art League RI and the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography are featuring the works of artists and scientists in a new exhibition titled “The Synergy Project: A Collaboration of Art and Science,” from Aug. 15 through Sept. 20 at Studio Blue on the URI Narragansett Bay Campus.

With its  goal to communicate oceanographic research to wider audiences through art exhibits and events, The Synergy Project has paired artists across many mediums with scientists from URI  and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution since 2020. This third Synergy Project group exhibition features 50 pieces from returning artists and scientists as well as new work exploring new topics. Each exhibition is an opportunity for guests to learn about ocean science in an engaging and unconventional way, prompting new conversations about science and its importance in climate regulation and ocean health with communities near and far. Read more about the exhibit and see list of artists.

Past Exhibits & Featured Artwork:

2018 Exhibit: Fading Landscapes: the Fragility of Coastal Beauty. Artist:  Lori Jeremiah.

2017 Exhibit: Coastal Images: The Work of Eric Lutes, featuring Science and the Sea, a painting of the R/V Endeavor. Artist: Eric Lutes

Inspiration: GSO fisheries trawl survey. Artist: Annette Mehr, BFA, U mentored by URI Art and Art History and GSO.

Inspiration: satellite views of the Earth. Artist: Aron Belka, works embrace a wide range from the wetlands of Louisiana to the vibrant life of New Orleans to the culture of Sierra Leone.