Immerse yourself in a world inspired by the meditative joy of fly fishing and cherished moments spent in nature.
To you…
…the adventure seeker…
…beauty curator…
…or fly fishing enthusiast, I say—
welcome to the place where art connects us, sparks memories, and ignites the soul.
Hello
I’m Gail Burr…
Artist & Outdoor Adventurer
Through my artwork, I invite you to curate your living spaces with pieces that resonate with your love for nature, creativity, and the joy of life. My paintings are more than decorations; they are windows to your cherished memories and connection to the natural world.
IN THE spotlight
AN ARTIST’S JOURNEY
It all began in my childhood home in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. Surrounded by my mother's creative pursuits and inspired by my grandmother's architectural legacy, I discovered the power of artistic expression from an early age.
As I ventured into high school, the attic art room became my refuge, a sanctuary where I wielded a paintbrush while my friends played outside. Art was my sanctuary, a saving grace, and somewhere I escaped from the challenges of learning differences.
Little did I know that my love for art would intertwine with my passion for fishing during a life-changing wilderness survival course in the Wind River mountains of Wyoming. It was there, among nature's wonders, that a profound connection to the world around me blossomed, and the seeds of my artistic journey were sown.
Throughout college, I eagerly soaked up every art class available, finding a lasting influence in Uli Drawing, a traditional Nigerian form of art that celebrated fluid lines and spontaneity. My passion for art took me to Montana's Rocky Mountain School of Photography, where I pursued my love for film, but my heart always brought me back to my beloved wooden easel and paintbrush as my ultimate form of expression.
As life unfolded, I crossed paths with my future husband, a kindred spirit who shared my love for fishing and the great outdoors. Our connection deepened as we explored the breathtaking waters of his family's land in the Austrian Alps, where the fish paraded themselves in turquoise pools, and my heart found solace and inspiration.
As a mother of two young children,
painting took on a new meaning, becoming not just a passion but a lifeline amidst the beautiful chaos of motherhood. My kitchen table is adorned with pink paint stains, and my home is filled with our expressive creations.
My kids are sometimes my creative partners, adding brushstrokes to my art. In the sacred space of my studio, surrounded by nature's palette outside the towering windows, I rediscovered that meditative feeling I once found in the attic art room.
STUDIO PROCESS
In the heart of my artistic process lies a profound connection to the world of fishing flies, each one a tiny marvel that speaks volumes about nature's wonders. I find inspiration in the vibrant colors, the play of materials, and the often-quirky names that breathe life into these miniature creations. With meticulous research, I select the perfect subject matter, immersing myself in the world of each fly to understand its essence. From "Drunk and Disorderly" to "Rainbow Warrior," the names themselves evoke a sense of adventure and intrigue, guiding me to capture their spirit on canvas.
A time lapse video of Gail painting a large intricate watercolor of a fishing fly named Hot Spot.
Rendering intricate detail is my forte, and I immerse myself in each fly's individuality, bringing it to life with delicate brushwork and meticulous attention to the tiniest features. From the sharp barbs to the soft feathers, I celebrate the contrasts that make each fly unique. As I paint, I almost hear the whispers of the names, weaving stories that intertwine with my experiences. This authenticity and passion breathe life into my art, leaving a lasting impression on art lovers and nature adventurers alike.
My creative sanctuary is nestled in my third-floor studio, where nature's light streams through floor-to-ceiling windows, infusing each stroke with the brilliance of the outdoors. Here, surrounded by over 100 tubes of watercolor paint and a menagerie of brushes, I embark on my creative process. Barefoot on a sheepskin rug, I feel grounded to nature, while my mother's antique vanity stool serves as my trusted companion. It is within these four walls that the magic of fishing fly art comes alive, each painting becoming a playground for the eyes.
As I stand before a blank canvas or watercolor paper, I pour my heart into each piece, drawing from cherished family memories spent fly fishing together. The flies themselves become more than just art; they transform into a bridge between the natural world and human creativity. It's an honor to take this journey with my art, uplifting fellow creatives, supporting art communities, and inspiring others to fearlessly embrace their passions.
Art and nature are waiting for you.