Press Release Summary = Winter Park, Florida captured in "plein air" when John Seerey-Lester Paints the Town Red. Native Visions Gallery, 290 Park Avenue North, hosts reception and exhibit on Thursday, December 8th from 6 to 9pm.
Press Release Body = WINTER PARK, FL - Native Visions Gallery brings internationally acclaimed wildlife artist John Seerey-Lester to paint Winter Park in "plein air" this holiday season. Beginning in early December, John will roam the streets of Winter Park, Florida to paint vibrant city scenes and prominent locations. John's work around the community is featured at a reception hosted by Native Visions Gallery on December 8th, from 6 to 9 pm, located at 290 Park Avenue North.
The exhibit is unique for art lovers. Guests can see John's work in progress and cuddle two tiger cubs. "We often introduce exotic wildlife, birds and primates at our art shows. We want people to experience first hand the subjects brought to life in the work here," explains gallery owner Ross Parker.
On John's list are the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, the old world architecture of Rollins College, Winter Park's Casa Feliz and Historical Museum, Florida Water Gardens on Forsyth, St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church and Park Avenue itself.
"When I first visited Winter Park I discovered how very cosmopolitan the city was, but along with so much history, it is like stepping back in time. That's the beautiful dynamic I want to capture," explains John. His passion for plein air painting has fueled wildly successful Paint the Town Red events in such cities as Charleston and Ft. Lauderdale.
John Seerey-Lester's first plein air adventure was painted at 8 years old and saved by his mother. "It's a pen and ink with watercolor overlooking a cliff in Cornwall. It's the only piece I have from that time," says John.
John's stop in Winter Park will be filmed for PBS TV's "Seerey-Lester Paints America," a series of twenty-six 30-minute episodes set to air in 2006.
Born in Manchester, England John received his first commission at the age of 13. It was in 1980, after his first trip to Africa, that John began to paint wildlife. Not only is John Seerey-Lester's work recognized worldwide, but also his skill and unmistakable style have become easily identifiable to art fans, novices and experts alike. The paintings have a mysterious, mystical appeal, directly related to his ability to paint the unusual. His skill in painting mist and snow is without comparison.
John has received many awards and much recognition for his outstanding achievements including a commendation from His Royal Highness, Prince Phillip, for his work in conservation. John has written three books on his life and work, including the successful Face to Face with Nature: The Art of John Seerey-Lester, published by Mill Pond Press.
To enjoy John's wildlife paintings, as well as the Winter Park exhibit of "Paint the Town Red", visit Native Visions Gallery on Thursday, December 8th, located at 290 Park Avenue North from 6 - 9 PM. Please call 407-539-0018 for more information or visit the gallery on-line at www.callofafrica.com.
Web Site = http://synproject.com/clients/NativeVisions/web/