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ARTIST BIO
Dennis Friel is one of the brightest rising stars in the marine art world. Specializing in capturing the fluid essence of the ocean through his work, he portrays his inspirations directly to canvas and paper as well as a variety of multi and digital medias. Dennis takes pride in being a native to South Florida growing up on the Atlantic. Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 1974 he spent most of his childhood on,
in or around the water, and has always drawn from his salt-laden experiences.
At the early age of 18 his work was accepted into numerous South Florida marine art galleries where his original paintings hung side-by-side with many of today’s most accomplished artists. It was through this early exposure that groups such as the IGFA and The Southern Kingfish Association took notice. Dennis would go on to produce works for these and other organizations including being a featured artist at multiple annual IGFA fundraisers during his young tenure. He would also go on to create numerous murals and painting commissions to accomplished businesses
and world class anglers.
After these early successes, a formal education in art was pursued where
Dennis studied illustration at the prestigious Ringling School of Art and Design, and then later, graphic design at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. Going on to work in the commercial art field from there, he held the title of Sr. Art Director working in the music industry for eleven years completing works for such companies as Sony Music, Universal Records, Island Records and countless others. But still his passion for painting the pelagic species never left him.
More recently, Dennis Friel was named the official artist for the
2010 Palm Beach Sailfish Classic and the Boynton Beach Firefighter Benevolent Association tournaments. He has completed custom work
for Pelagic and Ocean Blue Graphics designing dozens of custom
charter boat t-shirts for some of the world’s greatest professional fisherman and vessels. Some projects in the works now; designing his own apparel line and custom boat wrap designs as well as taking care
of the many commissions his studio holds. Dennis will also be featured
in the Dec/Jan Marlin Magazine Art Gallery issue, where it is an honor to
be selected by the staff and editors as one of the top marine artists
in the world!
He continues painting today as an avid tournament fisherman on the Florida salt water circuit and resides in South Florida with his wife and fellow artist, Liz Lima Friel. Whether it's out on the ocean or in the studio painting, his mission is simple; to represent life's beauty, power and grace through undeniable vision and passion.
All Rights Reserved / Copyright 2010
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS
- While working in the music and advertising industry, Dennis has garnered over 21 related design and advertising awards.
- Featured Artist – 2009 World Sailfish Championship
Key West, Florida
- Featured Artist – 2010 Marlin Magazine Art Gallery Issue (Jan. publication)
- Featured Artist – 2009 Studio Visit Annual
(Late Dec. publication) - Official Artist – 2010 Palm Beach Sailfish Classic
Palm Beach, Florida
- Official Artist – 2010 Boynton Beach Firefighters Tournament
Boynton Beach, Florida
