I have been an independent artist my entire life. I started painting when I was 8 years old and did my first outdoor art show, The Allentown Art Festival in Buffalo, NY, when I was 14. I split my college career in two schools. The Fine Arts Department of York University in Toronto, Ontario, and The Ringling School of Art & Design, in Sarasota, Florida where I studied painting and printmaking. I was raised to understand that we are the caretakers of our fragile environment. I have always been passionate about the ocean. My subject matter reflects my love of the sea. I have maintained my studio in Englewood, Florida for over 40 years and have developed a good reputation as a fine artist being very involved in all aspects of art in my community.
The Swayze Studio is a 5-acre eclectic piece of Old Florida and I welcome visitors throughout the year to my property to relax, enjoy original art and live music. I have a stage on my studio property and host music and art events throughout the season.
I am 65 years old, I am well-traveled, and I’ve raised three sons and have four grandchildren. I have been a working artist my entire life and I have an enormous amount of life experience that I am proud to share. I am well-spoken, and I am not at all afraid to speak in public. I’ve seen the early years of the art show movement, and with 50 years of outdoor art shows under my belt, I’m pretty sure I could win Survivor if they’d just let me play because I know I can build a dry shelter with my eyes shut. I’ve experienced the ups and downs of the economy over the years and I have struggled to stay the course, maintaining good work ethics and standards along the way. I believe that art is important in everyday life and I strive to continue the adventure.