Florida youth artist receives special recognition in fish art contest

George Warthen, Chief Conservation Officer
George Warthen, Chief Conservation Officer
0Comments

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has announced a special recognition as part of the Florida Fish Art Contest. In collaboration with The Florida Nomad, they have selected youth artist Sebastian Romo to receive this year’s Artist Spotlight Award for his artwork of the Florida bass.

“From a very early age, Sebastian showed great talent in expressing his ideas through drawing, filling his sketchbooks full of very detailed and accurate designs of everything that interested him,” said Diego Romo, Sebastian’s dad. “His love of being outdoors, immersed in nature, became his passion which led him to become an animal expert, being able to tell you everything about the subjects in his drawings. Sebastian enjoys studying animals carefully and then drawing them accurately in his own unique style. Besides drawing and fishing, Sebastian loves to play sports and travel to new places where he can learn about different environments. He hopes to one day have a career doing what he loves, which is educating people about animals and creating art.”

Sebastian’s artwork can be seen on Instagram @sebastianinthewild.

“As a Floridian, a captain and someone who spends every day outdoors, I wanted to create gear that not only performs but also tells the story of this incredible state. Partnering with the Fish Art Program was a natural fit – it supports conservation and education, and that’s what The Florida Nomad is all about,” said Joe Ludvigsen, founder of The Florida Nomad.

The FWC will collaborate with Wildlife Forever to host the contest again next year. More information on participation can be found at MyFWC.com/FishArt.

About The Florida Nomad: Founded by Joe Ludvigsen, The Florida Nomad provides high-quality sun-protective apparel designed for life on the water. Inspired by Florida’s wildlife beauty and diverse ecosystems, its products feature original artwork crafted with sun-resistant fabrics. The company partners with local artists and non-profits to promote eco-conscious practices through recycled materials. Its collaboration with the Fish Art Program emphasizes conservation and education.



Related

Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr.

Governor DeSantis signs House Bill 757 to expand school safety at colleges and universities

Governor Ron DeSantis has signed House Bill 757 into law expanding school safety measures across Florida’s colleges and universities. The bill extends key protections such as enhanced campus security requirements under programs like Guardian. State officials say this move strengthens ongoing efforts toward safer learning environments.

Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr.

Nicole Leon named finalist for 2027 Florida Teacher of the Year award

Nicole Leon has been named one of five finalists for the 2027 Florida Teacher of the Year award by the state Department of Education. The sixth-grade literature teacher at True North Classical Academy was recognized for her dedication both inside and outside her classroom.

Jessica R. McCawley Director of Marine Fisheries Management at Florida Fish And Wildlife Conservation Commission

Governor DeSantis announces expanded 2026 red snapper seasons and federal approval for state management

Governor Ron DeSantis announced expanded recreational red snapper seasons across both Gulf and Atlantic waters starting in May 2026. Federal approval now lets Florida oversee management of these fisheries statewide—an effort officials say will boost angler access while supporting conservation.

Trending

The Weekly Newsletter

Sign-up for the Weekly Newsletter from Gulf Coast Dispatch.