Wildlife Artist Exhibits Original Watercolors To Raise Funds For Local Nature Preserve

Nationally acclaimed wildlife artist James Fiorentino plans to display his original watercolors from Sun., Sept. 13, through Sun., Oct. 18, in the Nature Center at Schiff Nature Preserve in Mendham. Fiorentino will make a donation to Schiff for every piece of artwork sold during the exhibit, including sales of limited edition giclees. The public is invited to attend a wine and cheese Artist’s Reception on Sat., Sept. 12, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., which will include a chance to win a free Fiorentino giclee and to enjoy a live musical performance in the Native Plant Garden alongside the Nature Center.

While the event is free, advance registration for the reception is appreciated. Visit www.SchiffNaturePreserve.org or call 973-543-6004.

Fiorentino has had his artwork juried into exhibitions like America’s Parks, and Art and the Animal, and through museum tours across the country. Fiorentino has also produced an alternative body of work – portraits of sports icons and celebrities.  Fiorentino has distinguished himself as a wildlife artist with skill and versatility “that positions him above the rest in this regard,” said David J. Wagner, Ph.D., author of “American Wildlife Art,” and a professional curator.

“The breadth of artwork produced by James Fiorentino reminds me of the breadth of work of America’s richest artist of the Twentieth Century, LeRoy Neiman, whose subject matter ran the gamut of sports icons, celebrities, wildlife, and much, much more,” Wagner said.

“The exhibit gives Schiff an exciting opportunity to introduce the preserve and our educational Nature Center to many people who don’t already know us through our popular summer nature camp and our adult and family environmental programs,” said Jeanne Westervelt Rice, executive director of the 780-acre preserve, with protected land in the Mendhams and Chester. “Bringing in original wildlife artwork from a young, rising talent like James is a unique way to promote our mission, which is to inspire environmental stewardship across generations. James’s artwork brings the majestic beauty of these magnificent creatures to life. The fact that he will donate a percentage of sales back to Schiff is an added benefit.”

Schiff Natural Lands Trust has preserved 780 acres of land for open space, passive recreation, and to protect and provide natural habitats for native plant and animal species in this region of New Jersey. Schiff Nature Preserve provides environmental education through its popular Summer Nature Program for kids, as well as a variety of adult and family programs offered throughout the year. Schiff also serves as a model of environmental stewardship and invites volunteers, school and scout groups to help work on the preserve through their Volunteer Stewardship Days. Learn more about this local nature preserve and to register for the Artist’s Reception at www.SchiffNaturePreserve.org