The Manhattan Beach Education Foundation, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, is preparing to unveil its new "Seeds of Knowledge" art installation honoring MBEF donors.

The unveiling will take place at a special community celebration on Saturday, May 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon in Metlox Plaza at the corner of 13th St. and Morningside Drive in downtown Manhattan Beach. The festivities will include several speakers, including Sen. Ben Allen and Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, as well as live entertainment and refreshments.

The art installation - located just west of Shade Hotel in Metlox Plaza - was created by artist Betsy K. Schulz to acknowledge the community of educators, parents, students, volunteers, and donors who value and support education.

"The Seeds of Knowledge Community Recognition Project reminds our community of the importance of education and celebrates the longtime support of our public schools through MBEF," said Hilary Mahan, executive director of the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation.

The mural depicts a child discovering the world: the layers of earth beneath her, the environment around her, and the future represented in the stars.

Schulz is known for her murals and sculptural installations for municipalities, schools, nonprofit groups, businesses, and private individuals. She includes highly detailed ceramic tiles with many layers of words, imagery, and textures that are meant to be touched and experienced.

The MBEF mural includes the names of community supporters and leaders who have contributed to MBEF. 

Donors have given more than $100 million to MBEF during its 40 years in support of Manhattan Beach public schools.