INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Guy Harvey, artist, scientist, diver, angler, conservationist and explorer, made an appearance signing his work at the Bealls on 20th Street to benefit the Environmental Learning Center.
The event started early, before the time of Noon posted in store advertisements. Around 75 people wound their way in line all the way to luggage from men’s ware at 12:15 p.m.
“It’s a solid turnout,” said Harvey of the crowd.
“I think his being here is going to bring a lot of attention to the ELC,” said ELC Photographer Celeste McWilliams. A portion of the proceeds is going to the ELC.
Some in line were getting items for their dads for Father’s Day tomorrow, and others were buying items for their sons.
“He’s out in the ocean now,” said one fan of his dad.
Bealls has Guy Harvey products and his fans had the option of getting their photo taken with the artist and getting his autograph.
“We are pleased to be partnering with the Environmental Learning Center in Vero Beach,” said Steve Stock president of Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation in a press release about the event. “The Center does good work in the community working hard to make a difference with the area’s natural resources. We, along with our friends at Bealls, are happy to give back a portion of the sales proceeds from Guy’s appearance.”
His depictions of marine life, especially of sportfish such as marlin, were a hit with fishermen and families waiting in line.
“I like the colors,” said Brady Rittenhouse. “We’re big fishermen.”
He waited for his two sons to have their shirts signed by Harvey.
Harvey is also a very vocal and active advocate for marine conservation, having established the Guy Harvey Research Institute at Nova Southeastern University of Fort Lauderdale, as well as the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, an organization that funds marine conservation research and educational initiatives. www.GuyHarvey.com, according to the press release.
Harvey did not have much time to motor around Vero Beach, he flies back home tonight.