VENDOR SPOTLIGHT: ROBERT PHELPS

Joining the Holizaar festivities for the first time this year is local artist Robert Phelps, known for his colorfully emotive paintings of people and pets!  In addition to his thriving career as a decorative painter, Robert has been a professional exhibiting artist since 1996. He is recognized for his vibrant figurative work and uniquely-colored portraiture. He began his arts career at Disney as both a scenic painter for the Animal Kingdom and a caricaturist for the many themed resorts.  

Raised in the mountainous terrain of Appalachia, Robert developed a deep appreciation for the natural world. Most of his paintings reflect an affection for the wilderness "within and without". A self-taught artist, Robert enjoys exploring the unconventional application of color in the expressionist and fauvist tradition. His work is collected nationally and abroad and has been featured in both solo and group exbitions in the St. Petersburg area.

Robert's portraits range from a menacingly-brooding Mike Tyson to adorable teacup chihuahuas. Although his work often varies thematically, his bold and energetic paintings continually strive to express the raw, intimate beauty of his subjects. He recently had an opportunity to meet legendary film maker John Waters and created a special portrait for the occasion. See more of his work at www.PaintedPoetryHome.com

Holizaar 7 takes place on Saturday December 13, 2014 from 10 AM - 4 PM at The Studio@620.  The Studio is a non-profit arts center located at 620 1st Ave South in St Petersburg, FL. Admission is free!