IRC Artist Spotlight – Lee G Smith
The Artist Spotlight showcases local artists and how they see Indian River County in their own eyes. Whether it is a recreation of a scene or an abstract piece that was inspired by a location or business we want to include them all. Our final artist spotlight is Lee G Smith! To learn more about this amazing artist check out the following Q&A and some photos of her work!
Special thanks to the Cultural Council of Indian River County for helping us select these amazing artists!
1. How long have you lived or have been visiting Indian River County?
I have been living in Indian River County for 21 years.
2. What do you love the most about experiencing our county?
All of its nature: wildlife, sky, & ocean.
3. Which part of Indian River County inspires you to create your pieces?
Jaycee, Humiston and the other beaches, 14th Ave, and the one-story buildings.
4. How long have you been working in this medium?
30 odd years.
5. Are you self-taught or did you go to school for art?
I majored in Art at UMass in Amherst, MA.
6. What motivated you to dedicate your time to your art?
Always loved doing it.
7. What is your favorite area in Indian River County that is off the beaten path?
Sexton Ranch.
8. Is this a hobby or your business?
Business
9. What can our followers and readers expect from you in the future in terms of creative expression?
More work with Plein Air. Jaycee Beach, Sexton Ranch, 14th Ave, LaPorte Farms, & Old Dixie.
A brief bio…
Originally from MA, I have lived on Cape Cod and currently in Vero Beach, Florida. Graphic design, editorial, advertising, architectural, and book illustration are part of my background. My primary work for much of my adult life has been painting. I like to paint realistically with an emphasis on sunlight, shadows, and humor. Local scenes of beaches and streets, boats, buildings, dogs, cats, and children provide continual inspiration to me. In 2009, I won the Vero Beach Anniversary Poster Contest and in 2019, I was asked to create a commemorative poster for the Vero Beach Centennial. The poster includes reproductions of my paintings of the oldest Vero Beach buildings which are now included in The National Register of Historic Places. A large framed Centennial poster now hangs in the IRC County Administration building on permanent display and my original painting of Veteran’s Memorial Island Cenotaphs hangs permanently in Vero Beach City Hall. The Indian River Medical Center (now Cleveland Clinic) has purchased and used several pieces of mine to decorate their buildings as have other local establishments. My originals and prints may be purchased on my website and I am available for commissions of pets, people, and architecture.
We hope you enjoyed learning about Lee G Smith and her artwork! For more, head over to her website!
