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  LEGENDARY FLORIDA BACKGROUND

With the discovery of what was named "La Florida" by the Spanish explorers in the sixteenth century, a recorded history of this place was initiated. As the centuries evolved, many tales were told of European adventurism and the trials of the native people of this peninsula.

There would be more drama to come as the human tapestry of the region introduced the plight of the African Americans, military expeditions and Indian resistance. Many times the landscape would be turned red with the fires of war.

As the years passed, there would be many stories of heroism, of tragedies and triumphs and tales of fortunes won and lost as the people of this land would become Americans and this place would forever be known as Florida.

"If a picture says a thousand words, than Jackson Walker's beautiful paintings write volumes about the excitement, drama and diversity of Florida's rich past. Here truly is history raised to the level of art."

-Dr. Canter Brown, Jr. Author of Florida's Peace River Frontier

"Legendary Florida" is a compilation of images that weave a visual tapestry of Florida's long and eventful past. Through the traditional usage of oil colors, executed in a carefully studied realistic treatment, incidents and personalities of over four hundred years of history are brought back to life. The result is the most dynamic exhibition of Florida history in art ever to be assembled. This visual and informative experience has proven to intrigue and delight a broad cross section of the public wherever it is viewed. From the sophistication of the treasure coast and the Palm Beaches, to the halls of the State Capitol; from Floridians of long lineage to our most recent visitors, viewers of all ages have found this collection to be a most memorable and enriching experience.

This exhibit is a collection of large paintings that are uniformly framed with a wide, classically styled frame in a traditional gilded design. Each piece is accompanied by a mounted and typeset narrative describing the historical circumstances of the subject and points of interest within portrayal. Legendary Florida is the primary endeavor for native born Florida artist, Jackson Walker since 1992. He continues to this day with additional works for the collection. Each portrayal is thoroughly researched for historical reality and accurate detail in order to assure an honest telling of the event. The artist has placed the characters of his stories within a visual feast of detail and surprise set among the vast and dynamic landscapes that are uniquely Florida's.

The exhibition has been offered to public and private institutions, and has been showcased at the State Capitol Building and The Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala. The "Legendary Florida" exhibit provides a particular educational value for schools and youth organizations and provides added impact for civic and community events, as well as history related pageants and festivals.

Jackson Walker's paintings have received the official recognition of two Florida Secretaries of State and historians and the endorsement of the Florida Historical Society.