Dr. Eugenie Clark Bronze Sculpture

The City of Sarasota is advancing a public art project honoring Dr. Eugenie Clark, the marine biologist, author, educator, and founder of Mote Marine Laboratory. Known as the “Shark Lady,” Dr. Clark’s research and teaching helped shape modern understanding of sharks and marine ecosystems and established Sarasota as a center for marine science.

Project History

February 2024: The Public Art Committee approved commissioning a life-size bronze sculpture honoring Dr. Eugenie Clark.
2024–2025: The artists worked with the City’s Public Art Program and Dr. Clark’s family to select a photograph provided by the family as the reference for the sculpture. The sculpture was modeled in clay, with ongoing family review to ensure accuracy in key details, including likeness, posture, and personal elements.
2025: The model was finalized and cast in bronze.
November 2025: The Public Art Committee approved the proposed placement of the sculpture on City Island and authorized staff to proceed with site coordination and installation planning.

Location and Coordination

City Island is the site of Dr. Clark’s original marine research facilities and the early development of what became Mote Marine Laboratory. The City is working with Mote Marine Laboratory to finalize an agreement and coordinate installation planning. Final placement will consider visibility, accessibility, and long-term maintenance.

About the Artwork

The sculpture was created by internationally recognized artists Gillie and Marc as part of their Statues for Equality initiative, a global series of public sculptures that focuses on historically significant women who have been underrepresented in public monuments. The artists are known for a collaborative process that involves close coordination with families and project partners.

Next Steps

With committee approvals in place, the project is moving into the implementation phase. City staff are coordinating site planning, installation logistics, and final design elements for the sculpture base and surrounding area. Updates will be shared as the project progresses.