Famed Artist/Author Dean Morrissey Returns to Gallery One

A local holiday tradition for more than two decades, award-winning artist and popular children’s author Dean Morrissey returns to Gallery One December 5 and 6 for an exhibit of his colorful and richly imaginative artwork, and the public is invited to enjoy special holiday festivities.

Events kick off on Friday, December 5 at 6 p.m. The United Handbell Choir will perform at 7 p.m. and Morrissey will give a talk about his artwork at 7:30. He will sign books and artwork until 9 p.m. and will return to Gallery One on Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. A special awards presentation will take place at 2 p.m.

Morrissey, a master story-teller, paints ordinary objects in extraordinary settings that appeal to the child within everyone. With dramatic lighting and colors so rich and radiant, his resplendent canvases seem to glow from within, drawing the viewer into their magic. When rendered by Morrissey, a child’s worn and dented red wagon can easily soar through the stars as in Ship of Dreams, Morrissey’s first award-winning book. Translated into several languages, it was named among the best-selling children’s books of all time. Since 1992, Gallery One has been the main source for Morrissey’s original paintings and limited edition prints.

“We hosted Dean’s first Gallery One exhibit in 1993,” said Alan Brown, Gallery One president. ”Art lovers came with their small children, and Dean took the time to talk to each child as he personalized their books. Over the years, they have returned, many bringing their own children, to meet Dean Morrissey each time he appears at Gallery One.”

In recent years, Morrissey has painted a number of portraits of Santa Claus, widely sought-after by collectors. These as well as many other works by Morrissey, including original paintings, drawings and hand-signed prints, will be on display for this event.

During his appearance, Morrissey will judge an exhibit of children’s artwork in Gallery One’s Third Annual “Cold Nose – Warm Art™” Exhibit. More than 100 kids, ages 4 through 18 took part, drawing, painting and sculpting dogs and cats from area shelters and foster homes to help raise awareness about the importance of adopting rescue animals. Morrissey will award prizes in each category as well as a Grand Prize and People’s Choice Award.

Established in 1974 and twice-voted “Best Art Gallery in the Cleveland Area,” Gallery One is located at 7003 Center Street (between Rtes. 2 and 90). Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday or by appointment. The family-friendly gallery is wheel chair accessible with free parking. For more information about Dean Morrissey’s appearance, call 800.621.1141 or 440.255.1200 or visit www.galleryone.com