Dr. Guy Harvey is one of the most famous marine artists of our time. It's a rare angler who doesn't have at least a few t-shirts with his prints on them. We know Guy Harvey as an artist but did you know he's also a scientist, author, angler, diver, television personality and photographer? Dr. Harvey is also a philanthropist, donating much of his time and art to aid marine research.

What Guy Harvey hasn't done so far is to come to our area. That's about to change. On April 14th-15th Dr. Harvey will be doing a benefit for the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). The two day event, named "Angling for Art", will be held at the VIMS Gloucester Campus.

Dr. Harvey has created an original painting just for this event that showcases some of Virginia's many inshore and offshore game fishes. Limited edition prints of the painting will be available, along with an exclusive VIMS-Guy Harvey t-shirt. The original painting will be the highlight of the auction which takes place on the second day.

SCHEDULE

April 14, 7:00 pm—Dr. Harvey will narrate a video presentation on billfish behavior. This will be similar to the presentation that he recently gave at the International Billfish Symposium. I've been fortunate enough to see some of this presentation and I can tell you the work Dr. Harvey has done on billfish feeding behavior is truly amazing. I guarantee it will make you a better angler. This event is free and open to the public.

Following his presentation will be a book signing. Guy Harvey books, artwork, and photographs will be available for purchase with the proceeds going to VIMS. With the author’s autograph, these items will immediately increase in value.

April 15, 6:30 pm—The second day will consist of a dinner and auction. Tickets for the dinner/auction are $75 and can be purchased through VIMS by calling 804-684-7099. The Guy Harvey original will be one of the many items offered for auction. A large variety of other items have been donated including some exciting vacation packages to different locations.

During both days, there will be an art show featuring the works of Guy Harvey with original paintings, limited edition prints, and photographs. However, Guy Harvey will not be the only artist represented at the benefit. Kent Ullberg, an internationally recognized wildlife sculptor, has contributed a bronze sculpture of a white marlin titled, "White Lightning" for the raffle. Raffle tickets for "White Lightning" are $10 and can be purchased by calling 804-684-7099 and at the event.

Come on out this weekend—meet Guy Harvey, learn something about billfish behaviour, maybe go home with some nice stuff, and help support the Virginia Institute of Marine Science!