GATORS
Original Photo Concept. Photo by Shoosty
“Shark Valley” is a painting of a teenage alligator basking in the sun. It is based on my photos at Shark Valley State Park, Florida. This park is known for its free-roaming alligators. You can ride your bike on a 14-mile loop among them as long as you stay about 10 feet away. I have done it many times and found them to have little interest in me or my bike. My favorite photo that day was a young ‘gator basking in the sun. It was surrounded by sun- baked white limestone and the cool fresh water of a canal. The composition transitions between the warm and cool colors, from ultramarine to ivory white. I signed it, Stephen Shoosty. From this point forward, all future work was signed simply with one word: Shoosty. This painting was likely the first time the word Shoosty was used. Shoosty was trademarked in 2020. I was running a business and signing checks. I did not want my check signature to match my paintings. Shark Valley is part of the permanent collection at the University of Florida. You can find it in The Reitz Union student center on the lower floor towards the sinkhole.
Shark Valley Appraisal
UF Homecoming Queen with Shark Valley
Univeristy of Florida Permanent Collection
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