Polk State College Presents “From Reality to Abstraction”

Polk State College will host the exhibit “From Reality to Abstraction,” featuring the work of artist Robert J. Morrissey, through Feb. 24 at its Winter Haven Fine Arts Gallery.

Morrissey’s works are included in the private collections of such notables as sports superstars Wade Boggs and Shaquille O’Neal, and former Florida governors Bob Martinez and Bob Graham. He has appeared in numerous galleries and outdoor art festivals across the state, and his works have been in publications such as USA Today and Baseball Weekly.

Morrissey’s creations range from nature scenes to pop culture icons such as Jennifer Lopez and Elizabeth Taylor. He typically paints with acrylics, but the Polk State exhibit also features several watercolor works.

He said attendees of the exhibit will notice a gradual shift in his work – from realism to abstraction.

“There is so much variety in there. There is something that everyone can enjoy,” said Morrissey, adding that this is his first one-man show in 20 years.

Morrissey, 71, is a Winter Haven resident and a retired Polk State College art professor.

Polk State will host a free reception for the exhibit from 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 10. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The Gallery is located inside the Fine Arts Building on the Winter Haven campus, 999 Ave. H N.E. The Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.