When Virginia-based artist Tess Abad first learned about the Florida bonneted bat, she was struck by its charm. “The idea of a bat species being named because it has the appearance of wearing a little hat? My heart was sold instantly,” she said.
But as she dug deeper into the species’ story, her affection turned into a mission.
In 2021, Tess was completing her Associate’s Degree in Studio Arts and wanted to use her ceramics work to spotlight endangered wildlife. She found herself drawn to misunderstood species, especially bats, which were facing renewed stigma in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her research led her to the Florida bonneted bat, the most critically endangered bat species in the United States with fewer than 1,000 in the wild.
She turned that discovery into a striking piece of art that blends beauty with urgency. Her sculpture, split between flesh and bone, symbolizes the fragile balance between life and extinction. Beneath the bat’s chin, Tess included imagery of hurricanes and rising sea levels, two major threats to the species’ survival. The details invite viewers to look closely, reflect deeply, and consider their impact on wildlife.
The sculpture is now part of The Art of Conservation, an online art show hosted by Kelsey Schroeder that raises awareness for threatened species. Tess is donating half of the sculpture’s sale to our Florida Bat Fund, which supports research on critical species like the Florida bonneted bat.
“The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida was the source of conservation information that I utilized the most while researching for my sculpture,” she said. “This is the perfect opportunity for me to give back.”
What resonated with her most was our Foundation’s focus on connecting people, especially young people, to nature.
“The human race has never been more connected in the history of our planet thanks to modern technology, and technology is such a valuable tool when used responsibly,” said Tess. “The most crucial connection that must be not only sustained, but nurtured, is humanity’s connection to the planet itself.”
Tess believes art can play a powerful role in that connection. Through visual storytelling, she creates an opening for audiences to learn, feel, and act, particularly with species many have never heard of.
“Art attracts attention and influences its viewers. Artists possess a powerful form of communication that transcends traditional language through imagery.” When she shows her endangered species sculptures, the most common response she hears is, “Wow, I had no idea this animal existed. Thank you for showing us how we can help.”
You can view Tess’s sculpture at The Art of Conservation show, running through September 6, or follow her work on Instagram at @artesstry. Our Foundation is honored to be the beneficiary of her talent, generosity, and passion for wild Florida.
