In celebration of its 200th Anniversary, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) commissioned Wyland to create a work of art paying homage to our ocean and atmosphere. The original oil painting 'Water Planet' honors the scientific contributions of NOAA and is considered one of the most significant works of the artist's career. 'Water Planet' explores the range of natural forces that shape the earth. 'To be chosen as the official artist to create the commemorative artwork for this occasion was the highest honor for me,' the artist says. 'I wanted to give the viewer a sense of our water planet from many views, above and below, and even from space.' The artist recognized the history of NOAA, which conducts research and gathers data about the global oceans, atmosphere, space and sun, starting with the image of a full moon and its tidal influence on the ocean. Below the surface, a humpback mother and calf glide through the moonlit water. Finally, Wyland's image of planet earth reminds the viewer that for all its magnificence, our planet remains a pale blue dot, our only home, in the infinite reaches of space. The original 4 foot by 7 foot artwork was unveiled Oct. 9 at NOAA's 200th Anniversary Celebration of Science, Service and Stewardship in Washington, D.C. The limited edition series is hand-signed by the artist and numbered.

All proceeds from this item benefit Wyland Foundation community outreach programs for clean water and healthy oceans.