About Me

I’m all about the details–what you want, why you want it, and all the ways my art can positively impact your life and others.

Who I Am…

I was very fortunate to be brought up surrounded by the beauty of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and with parents that encouraged me to pursue the arts. My dad was a great New England landscape painter, and my mother sang opera. So I had their blessing from the start. During my first 35 years in Plymouth, Massachusetts, I was fortunate enough to study with many of the present day masters such as Emile Gruppe (Gloucester, MA), Robert Douglas Hunter (Boston, MA), Marshall Joyce (Duxbury, MA) and critiques from America’s greatest illustrator, Norman Rockwell from Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts.

My dad placed a brush in my hand when I was three years old, and I never let up from there. I’ve been painting for 63 years, and have loved every moment. I learned “old school” by painting from nature, or painting from the live subject, or going on location. That’s when I formed my love for what’s known as “on location painting” or “plein air” as it is fashionably called today! I was taught to always use the finest materials possible. I follow that advice to this day, which is the same advice I pass on to my many students (here’s some of them below).

What I Actually Do

To put it simply, I create unique original paintings and experiences for collectors around the world. Originals are unique and I rarely create prints. I operate under a “what you see is what you get” motto. It’s me and only me when it comes to the artwork. Of course, I have help managing the business and other technical aspects. But the creativity, the photographs of pieces and every single brush stroke is me and only me. In the fast pace we live today, I know how difficult it is to get the time to visit the different galleries in your area, so I have decided to try and bring the gallery to you through my online art gallery!

How I Do It

I work extremely hard. I do so every day. I eat, sleep and breathe art. You simply can’t become great at anything by only half doing something. You can’t wait around for a painting to create itself. One thing I try and do daily is spread positive energy to everyone I speak with. This helps keep my energy levels extremely high and positive. When you acquire a piece of my art, you’re getting that energy, hard work and efforts along with it.

I stated earlier, I don’t do everything alone. Those I work with operate on the same level of passion and positive energy. Myself, along with my business and technical manager Brandon, promise to deliver the most up-to-date fresh pieces of art for your enjoyment. Sometimes we do things a little different from others. That’s what separates us from the rest.

Art Shows

Meridian Museum of Art – One Man Show Fall 2009
MY South, Jackson, May 2007
Stodghill & James Fine Art, Ridgeland, MS – One Man Show August 2006
Alexander & Victor, New Orleans, LA – One Man Show October 2004
University of West Alabama, Livingston, Al – One Man Show September 2002
Grossman Gallery, Tampa, FL – One Man Show 2001
Touchstone fine Art, New Orleans, LA – One Man Show 2000
Thomas Anthony Gallery, Park City, Utah – One Man Show 2000
Phillips Gallery, Carmel, CA – One Man Show 2000
Art Expo, New York – March 1999
The Little Gallery, Moneta VA – One Man Show 2000 & 2001
Has had shows in numerous other states including Texas, Massachusetts, Arizona,

The Art Galleries

While I now prefer to sell exclusively through my website where my artwork can be purchased, I’ve been represented by many galleries over the years.

Here’s a list of some of the galleries that have carried my work: Renaissance Gallery, Northport, AL
The Little Gallery, Moneta, VA
Andrews Gallery, John Collette Fine Art, Highlands, NS
Andrews Gallery, Richmond, VA
Hinsdale Gallery, Hinsdale, IL
Beverly McNeil Gallery, Destin, FL
Thomas Anthony Gallery, Park City Utah
Jackson Street Gallery, Ridgeland, MS

CHARITY CONTRIBUTIONS

I’ve contributed to various charity organizations including Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi; American Heart Association – Meridian, Hattiesburg, Jackson; Juvenile Diabetes Association; American Kidney Association; Boys and Girls Club; Art of Healing; Hearts Against Aids; United Way; Hurricane Katrina Relief and many, many more.

IN THE PRESS

I’ve devoted my time and talent to schools and youth of all ages.
I’ve been gratefully published and recognized in national magazines such as Art & Antiques, Art World News, Art Business News, The Artist Magazine, Gray’s Sporting Journal, Mississippi Magazine, and Millionaire Magazine.

CELEBRITY PORTRAITS

I’ve painted portraits of many noteworthy individuals including First Lady Barbara Bush, Honorable G.V. Sonny Montgomery, Ray Charles, Mike Wallace, just to name a few. I’ve recently painted a portrait of the Mississippi State Football Coach, Dan Mullen.

IN MY FREE TIME

When I’m not painting, teaching a workshop or doing other art related activities with my collectors. I like to enjoy listening and playing music. In fact, I once had a local blues band called “Greg Cartmell and The Blues Messengers” which played every Wednesday night at a local spot named Weidmann’s in Meridian, MS. I also used to perform various gigs around the state.

SOME OTHER FUN FACTS

I play guitar, harmonica and was the lead singer in the band I was in as well.

I have a diamond and gemstone importation business that I spend some time working on as well.

I make custom knives as a fun hobby.

I’m a registered funeral director and embalmer.

GALLERY ADDRESS:

3283 Buntin Gunn Rd
Meridian, MS 39305

HOURS OF OPERATION:

MONDAY: 9-6 PM
TUESDAY: 9-6 PM
WEDNESDAY: 9-6 PM
THURSDAY: 9-6 PM
FRIDAY: 9-6 PM
SATURDAY: 10-12 PM
SUNDAY: CLOSED

COMMISSIONS/LESSONS:

If you’re interested in contacting me for commission
opportunities,
please email me: greg@gregcartmell.com