(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- James Fiorentino, a nationally renowned sports and wildlife artist who resides in Hunterdon County, is currently exhibiting a series of watercolors of rare wildlife at the Mayo Performing Arts Center Art Upstairs Gallery, until February 28, 2017. This exhibit is in partnership with Studio 7 of Bernardsville and Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey.
James Fiorentino is renowned for his ability to create uncanny likeness of famous sports icons. A resident of Hunterdon County, he has painted and illustrated some of the most recognized faces in the world using his self-taught watercolor expression, including Presidents, Nobel Peace Prize winners, CEOs and political icons. His work is showcased in museums, galleries and private collections across the globe, and his story has been told on national television and in the pages of magazines and newspapers. James is the youngest artist inducted into the New York Society of Illustrators and was the youngest artist to display his work in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Fiorentino continues to prove himself as a highly regarded illustrator and painter. He graduated from Drew University in 1999. Now, his trademark detail and realism in watercolor can be seen in wildlife paintings. More information is available at JamesFiorentinoNatureArt.com.
Of Rare Wildlife Revealed, author and curator David J. Wagner says, "The breath of artwork produced by James Fiorentino reminds me of the breath of work of America's richest artist of the 20th century, LeRoy Nieman..Very few wildlife artists that I know of can handle the human figure in convincing fashion. Fiorentino has distinguished himself as a wildlife artist with skills and versatility that positions him above the rest in this regard."
Adds David Wheeler, Executive Director, Conserve Wildlife Foundation, "His watercolor paintings truly bring wildlife to life. In doing so, his art helps to educate and engage viewers about the precipitous declines that many of these species have undergone."
"By bringing together audiences for both art and wildlife conservation, we hope to educate and inspire adults and students on the immense power of the arts to illustrate conservation issues," Wheeler continues." We are so pleased to partner with Mr. Fiorentino on this unique campaign."
Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey (CWF) is the leading statewide non-profit organization focused solely on protecting and raising awareness for rare and at-risk wildlife in New Jersey. More information is available at ConserveWildlifeNJ.org.
The Gallery is open Tuesdays from 3 - 5 and Wednesday from 10 - 1, as well two hours prior to performances for ticket holders and by appointment. To schedule an appointment, call 973-539-0345, X 6506.
The Art Upstairs Gallery is a gift of the John and Margaret Post Foundation.
Mayo Performing Arts Center is located at 100 South Street in Morristown, NJ.
