Feeling pressured by the fast-growing Denver suburbs, Gary moved north to Wyoming where range after range of forested mountains, snow-fed streams and broad, sage-covered plains gave him ample room to roam and inspiration to resume his painting.

The outstanding galleries and museums in his adopted state exposed Gary to the rich landscape tradition of the American West. Contemporary painters Clyde Aspevig, Scott Christensen and Lorenzo Chavez influenced his approach to color and composition. After some experimentation with pastel, a medium that permits lively spontaneity, Gary transitioned to working mostly in that medium. He has since developed a unique style of pastel painting that often is mistaken for oil but whose luminous surface, upon close inspection, is found to vibrate with the subtle interplay of woven strokes of color. Gary brings to the easel his own unique sense of composition and light borne from lifelong outdoor study and an early interest in photography. Lately his focus has been on the interaction of light and atmosphere. He imbues his work with depth and mystery inviting the viewer to enter and explore.

Gary spends his time painting, hiking and traveling the country’s National Parks and wilderness, seeking out-of-the-way places to gather new material and yet more inspiration. He and his wife, Ann, reside in Buffalo, Wyoming, with a breathtaking view of the Bighorn Mountains.