Art Studio member, JR Gehri, will be our featured artist for May.  JRGehri is a self-taught artist who began painting to relax as a result of a very stressful occupation.  He was a career NCIS Special Agent serving in locations around the world.   He painted to escape from the rigors of the job while deployed and on various assignments. Over the years he developed his techniques in Mixed Media (watercolor pencil, pen and ink, and soft pastels), specializing in wildlife.  His works have been sold throughout the United States to private collectors.  He often donates to charitable events such as the March of Dimes, Breast Cancer Research, and Wounded Warriors.  He has done commission work in Texas and Colorado. Now that he is retired, he devotes more time to his artistic endeavors. He is a member of the St. Augustine Art Association and The Art Studio of St. Augustine Beach, Florida. He can be contacted at 904 502 9574; or follow  – JRGehri  WildlifeArt on Facebook.  Prints and originals are available. A reception at The Art Studio of St. Augustine Beach is planned during the First Friday Art Walk, May 6th, from 5:00pm-8:30pm.  Please plan to visit The Art Studio to meet JR and see his work!  The Art Studio is available to rent for classes or as meeting space. Membership is offered at just $20.00/year although it is not necessary to become a member to participate in any of the variety of classes offered. Our regular studio hours are Monday-Friday from 12:00 pm-4:00 pm.  Please see our calendar at www.beachartstudio.com for a list of classes, events, and special hours.  For more information, contact Nancy Willoughby at 703-399-9816. The Art Studio is located in the Cultural Arts Center Building at St. Johns County Pier Park 370 A1A Beach Blvd. St. Augustine Beach, Florida.