GARY STREAK
Meet the artist
Gary started his career as a graphic designer and has been in business for just over 30 years. Deciding to take the plunge and explore a long-held passion for fine art, Gary took up painting in his spare time, By sheer chance and good fortune this first foray into the world of art landed him a commission to produce a collection of 19 original pieces for the head office of a multinational company in South Africa. The collection, “Ethnic Reflections”, featured the magical mysteries of Africa expressed using a unique and excitingly vibrant digital technique. The success of this collection led to a second corporate commission based on a similar theme using the same technique.
Gary then became a member of the Water Colour Society of South Africa. At his first attempt as a water colourist one of his paintings was selected for the society’s 80th Open Exhibition at the society’s Norscot Manor Gallery in Johannesburg.
This debut success was quickly followed the next year when all three pieces submitted for the society’s 81st National Exhibition hosted at the Kizo Gallery in KwaZulu-Natal were selected. He was fortunate to score another “clean sweep” a year later when all three of his submissions were selected for the 82nd National Exhibition in Johannesburg. One of Gary's pieces was awarded a Highly Commended – one of only five paintings to be honoured that year.
Another clean sweep of three pieces submitted for the 83rd exhibition in Johannesburg earned Gary the honour of associate membership of the Society after only two years as a member – a relatively rare distinction for a new artist. At the society’s 85th open exhibition his water colour of a leopard won another highly commended award and top honours for Viewers’ Choice among more than 180 pieces on show to the public.
Since the sad demise of the society Gary has branched out into other mediums and techniques, including pencil, acrylic, oils and mixed-media. Thankfully Gary has enjoyed a flattering degree of success among a small but incredibly loyal following of collectors of his work – particularly his wildlife in water colour, pastels and oils that have also led to several commissions.
While Gary has a personal affinity for wildlife and animals in general, he has also produced landscapes and commissioned pet portraits. Gary's art hangs on the walls in America, New Zealand, Australia, England, South Africa and Canada. Hopefully this web site provides you, the visitor, with insights into Gary's passion for art and wildlife.