Ad exec donates Andy Warhol print to Marine Science Center

Posted On: December 13, 2021

One of Andy Warhol’s limited edition screen prints will soon be on display at the Marine Science Center, 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet.

Jim Benedict, retired owner of Benedict Advertising and Marketing, is donating Turtle 360A to the center on behalf of his grandchildren, Harrison, Cameron, Calla, Cael, Brynne, Britton, Scarlett and Behren. The signed print, which is 39” wide by 31” deep, was recently appraised at $41,000.

Warhol, who died in 1987, was one of the first artists to break through in the pop art movement. Some of his iconic prints include images of Campbell’s Soup, Marilyn Monroe and the Beatles.

He created 250 signed prints of Turtle 360A to coincide with the 1985 release of the film, “Turtle Diary.” The image is based on a photograph, which was screen printed and illustrated with shades of blues, purples and greens.

The print will be available for public viewing beginning Tuesday, Dec. 21..

The Marine Science Center, which treats and rehabilitates injured and sick sea turtles and birds, is open from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $7 for seniors, $8 for adults, and $5 for children ages 3 to 12. There is no charge for children ages 2 and under.

For more information about the Marine Science Center, visit www.marinesciencecenter.com.