Artist Gray-Blancett featured at ACT Gallery

Gray-Blancett Arts for ACT Gallery in downtown Fort Myers will feature the compelling and mood evoking paintings of local artist Stephen Gray-Blancett.

Gray-Blancett's work has been featured in numerous publications and is exhibited across the country. His 2005 and 2006 ACT exhibits were huge successes.

Also on exhibit will be Paul Rodino in the photography gallery and Los Angeles artist, Dover Abrams off the main gallery.

Born in Southeastern Ohio, Gray- Blancett moved to South Florida in 1982 and studied advertising design at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and business at Nova University. For the past 25 years he has worked two sides of the advertising business, as a creative/art director and model for clients ranging from Citi Corp to Jockey Underwear.

"I love the ad business, but find creativity is sometimes limited by a market or product," said Gray-Blancett. "My fine art gives me the fuel and freedom to express myself, my feelings and my individuality. It allows me to be me."

Gray-Blancett started painting and winning awards for his work at the age of seven. He painted portraits and pastoral scenes in watercolor almost exclusively until the mid 90's. "I enjoyed working in watercolors, but felt no ownership of a style," he said. "I tried many approaches, but it always looked like someone else's work. The results okay, but too wholesome for me. I like things that are bright, colorful and sometimes sexy. It may have taken me a long time, but I have discovered my own style - my own way."

COURTESY PHOTO FreeYourHumanity, Stephen Gray-Blancett Arts for ACT Gallery benefits Abuse Counseling and Treatment Inc., and is located at 2265 First Street, in the historic River District in downtown Fort Myers. Hours are: Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday hours vary. The show will run from Sept. 3 through Sept. 28. A reception will be held Friday, Sept. 7, from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. The public is invited to attend the free event and meet the artists. For more information, call 939-2553. ¦

COURTESY PHOTO Missing My Friends, Stephen Gray-Blancett