VERO BEACH — Local talent Rick Kelly will combine his artistic abilities with his love of nature at McKee Botanical Garden, where he will lead a series of plein air workshops during the month of March.
Kelly is an accomplished artist whose oil paintings capture his lifelong love and appreciation for Florida’s tropical landscapes and native vegetation. For more than 20 years, he has dedicated his art to honoring and preserving the natural surroundings of the Treasure Coast.
Kelly is an alumnus of Indian River College and was mentored by Fort Pierce’s own A. E. Backus. His work is currently on display at the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee and in private collections throughout the country.
Kelly, who is the garden’s artist-in-residence during the month of March, will help others develop their own creative talents with a series of plein air workshops. The workshops will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. beginning March 5.
Participants may choose to participate in one, three, or the entire series of six workshops. All skill levels are welcome, with tutorials and additional instruction available for those painting in oil at the beginner and intermediate level.
Students will learn to paint a waterlily and continue to more challenging subjects. The cost to participate ranges from $60 for one workshop to $260 for the full series of six.
“Rick Kelly’s ability to capture on canvas the natural beauty of our local surroundings is truly remarkable. We are delighted to have McKee spotlighted in his artwork and to share his talent with our visitors,” stated McKee Botanical Garden Executive Director Christine Hobart.
For more information on Rick Kelly’s plein air workshops at McKee Botanical Garden, please visit www.McKeeGarden.org/Classes or call (772) 794-0601.
The mission of McKee Botanical Garden is to nurture and enhance a historic garden in a unique tropical setting for the education, enjoyment, and enrichment of all.
McKee Botanical Garden is located at 350 US 1 in Vero Beach.
Admission fees are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $5 for children ages 3 to 12. Admission is free for members and children under 3.
Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from Noon to 5 p.m. The garden is closed on Mondays.
