Linda Relis, "Domain of the Tricolored Heron,"
oil painting, 30" x 40"

TALLAHASSEE, FL – Secretary of State Glenda E. Hood has announced an exhibit of oil paintings by Linda Relis, a Port St. Lucie artist. The exhibition entitled “My View of Florida” will be on display from January 10, 2005 through April 8, 2005 in the Cabinet Meeting Room.

“The Department of State is pleased to host this exhibition,” said Secretary Hood. “Developing public awareness about the importance of preserving Florida’s natural habitats for endangered and threatened species is a critical issue and these paintings communicate that.”

Relis has lived in Port St. Lucie for ten years, having moved to Florida from New York. During this time she has witnessed the damage a decade’s progress can render on wildlife and wildlife habitats. The loss of Florida’s pristine areas has prompted Relis to direct her work toward eliciting increased public awareness regarding the dangers of over-development. Her oil paintings, conveying an obvious love of nature, feature endangered or threatened birds in their natural surroundings. These vibrant images give notice of what might be lost should present conditions be allowed to deteriorate further.

Linda Relis attended the School of Visual Arts in New York City, the Parson School of Design, and the California Art Institute. In 1995 she founded St. Lucie Professional Arts League in Port St. Lucie. Since then, she has been appointed to the St. Lucie County Cultural Affairs Board and the Art Selection Committee for Art in Public Places. She currently teaches as a private art instructor, and lectures to various art groups in Florida.

This exhibition is part of the Florida Department of State, Office of Cultural and Historical Programs Capitol Complex Exhibition Program. The Cabinet Meeting Room is located on the Lower Level of the Capitol. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a tour guide only. Visitors should call in advance for available tour times at 850/488-6167. For general information about this exhibition or the Capitol Complex Exhibition program, please contact Erin Long at the Office of Cultural and Historical Programs at 850/245-6475, or visit www.florida-arts.org.

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