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ABOUT ME

Award-winning marine artist Kelly Reark draws much of her inspiration from fishing in Boca Grande and Chokoloskee. Growing up in an adventurous family provided endless opportunities while fishing and hunting to explore her native Florida. What started as poking about oyster bars and mud flats grew into her degree from the University of Miami.
Pursuing her creative passion, Kelly uses her art and marine biology background together to advocate for sustainability, ecosystem management, and conservation of resources. “My mission is to motivate people to think about what they do, and act accordingly to preserve creatures and habitats for the enjoyment of all,” Kelly explains, “Borrowing the earth from our future is a phrase that has taken on an even deeper meaning since having my own boys.”
Kelly's work is both bright and nostalgic for that reason. She paints silks, creates "tattooed" fiberglass fish and paints traditional canvas works. The tattooed pieces are an indelible reminder that the permanence of our unique wildlife depends on the effectiveness of our efforts to be sustainable and responsible.  Kelly has created work on many species from sea turtles to bonefish. Tarpon continue to be the most popular mount. Sepia toned paintings and fish mounts have become her sought-after trademark style. “Sepia tones look like woodcarving or scrimshaw in the way that I apply the paint,” Kelly says, “And I like the challenge of incorporating full color expressions of light, water and texture with that timeless style.”
Since 2002, Kelly has exhibited work in conjunction with fishing tournaments, galleries, invitational or juried fine art festivals and more. You’ve seen her artwork represent Harley-Davidson, the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust, and the World's Richest Tarpon Tournament. Her work has been published in books, magazines and newspapers, and is on display in both private collections and public spaces.



KELLY REARK
941.268.7876
The BRC Group LLC
BOCA GRANDE, FL  33921



Popular posts from this blog

2019 World's Richest Tarpon Tournament

Each year that I create the artwork for the World’s Richest  Tarpon   Tournament , it is a very special honor to me. I love the Boca Grande fishery for so many reasons. The people I’ve fished with and the exhilaration of catching the mighty silver king are priceless. We are blessed to live in such a special place where the  tarpon  pile up and present us with the spectacle of huge rolling and feeding schools. Watching the crabs run on the tide or a fish evading a large and looming shadow of a bull or hammerhead are sights common here, unlike anywhere else. When I sit back in my chair on a drift off the pass, I often think about my previous  tarpon  experiences. Every single one was an event shared with friends and loved ones that I truly cherish. Fishing is as much about people and relationships as it is about the fish.  This year is a year of setting sons for our fishery. A few of the boats and people that I grew up fishing with or next to will no longer be in the P

Shirt Launch

In March, 2019, Kelly launched a line of wearable artwork in a collaboration with FRIO Ice Chests and Visual Promotions brand. Visit  https://kellyreark.frioicechests.com  to check out all of the designs. New items added regularly - follow Kelly on Instagram and Facebook for product launches.  Wholesaler opportunities - please inquire - www.kellyreark.com Reigning Silver  Tarpon Hammerhead Hide Buy some new gear! Cool info about my shirts: The solar performance long sleeve shirt offers superior sun protection and performance qualities featuring UPF 50+ solar protection. This long sleeve tee is lightweight, comfortable, and extremely durable. The fabric features moisture-wicking technology developed to keep you dry while you are out on the water. UPF 50+ 100% Polyester Interlock Moisture Wicking  Odor Resistant  Stain Release Technology  Ultra Tight Knit Resists Snagging Generously sized with ample sleeve length  Hand

Kelly Reark on transforming a fish mount

Tarpon fever - What a transformation! I spent a lot of time with this mini tarpon. It came from the 2003 World's Richest Tarpon Tournament captain's trophy. Through the years, it took a lot of sun and weathering. I used apoxie sculpting medium to patch the holes and chipped paint, and I sanded and sanded to make the body smooth again. Several coats of paint followed several coats of primer, and I finished with four coats of high gloss sealing varnish. I completely changed the look of this tarpon because I wanted it to be a Boca Grande Pass tarpon. Using photos from fish caught here in the Pass, I gave him the seaglass green, gold and silvery hues we love to see flashing f... To read the rest of this newsletter or to subscribe, please click here. https://mailchi.mp/9199c74d4589/wet-paint-reark-5028030