Press Release
The public is invited to Mary Martin Gallery on July 7th for the opening reception of “Brown Pelicans and Their Feathered Friends” by William Beebe which will be held from 5 pm to 8 pm at 103 Broad Street, Charleston.
Curious, mischievous, and whimsical, personality traits of brown pelicans which artist and avid birder William Beebe found to be intriguing and creatively inspirational.
Beebe has devoted the last 33 years to painting professionally. His representational style is recognizable by his attention to detail, masterful use of color, and painterly touches. Originally known for his many years as a Maritime artist, Beebe has broadened his body of work to include iconic Charleston scenes and birds of the Lowcountry.
In order to assure that his avian paintings be both representational and lifelike, Beebe spends hours in the field, photographing and studying pelicans and other shorebirds.
“Not everyone experiences close encounters with these beautiful creatures; so, when a birding experience results in a memorable moment, I love to capture it on canvas to share with others” states Beebe.
Many of the paintings in “Brown Pelicans and Their Feathered Friends” are roughly life-size such as the show's signature painting, appropriately titled “Mr. Persnickety”, a 40”x 30” oil on canvas.
Originally from Bethesda, MD, Beebe studied Studio/Fine Art at the University of Maryland. He and his wife moved to Maine in 1990. After several years of painting historic wooden schooners and fishing villages, Beebe became the resident artist at MBNA. For almost ten years his work was featured on the covers of their quarterly stockholders' reports. Beebe is now recognized as a painter for his Avian Art as much as he is for his Maritime Art and is widely collected nationally and internationally.
“Brown Pelicans and Their Feathered Friends” will be on exhibit throughout the month of July. The artist will be at the opening reception to meet the public.
Beebe is represented by Mary Martin Gallery, 103 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401
