Opening Friday, 02/07/2025 "Dragons and Other Creatures" Artist Amanda Zirzow
Join Arts for ACT Gallery, located at 2265 First Street in downtown Fort Myers on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 5 to 9 pm for the opening reception and Meet the Artist for February Fort Myers Art Walk. This month, ACT Gallery will feature the colorful works Amanda Zirzow!
Main Gallery – featuring Amanda Zirzow
Amanda C. Zirzow is a Fort Myers-based artist whose vibrant and evocative paintings capture
the intricate beauty of nature and its connections to human experience. Amanda’s work is
deeply rooted in her background as a scientist, blending her expertise in biology with her creative
vision to create pieces that are both thought-provoking and visually captivating. Her passion for
the natural world shines through in every brushstroke, as she skillfully highlights the details and
stories behind her subjects.
Amanda’s artistic journey is inspired by her experiences in the field and underwater. As a
certified SCUBA diver and environmental educator, she has explored coral reefs, observed
diverse marine ecosystems and worked hands-on with conservation efforts. These adventures
fuel her creativity, giving her a unique perspective that she translates onto canvas. Amanda’s
ability to infuse color and emotion into her depictions of wildlife, marine life, and landscapes
invites viewers to see the world through her eyes—a world where science and art coexist
harmoniously.
Her current exhibit features a collection of works that celebrate the resilience and complexity of
Florida’s ecosystems. From the luminous depths of coral reefs to the vibrant life thriving in
mangroves and estuaries, each painting tells a story of balance, adaptation, and the
interconnectedness of all living things. Amanda also draws attention to the challenges faced by
these ecosystems, encouraging viewers to reflect on their role in preserving the natural world.
In addition to her art, Amanda is a dedicated educator and advocate for environmental
awareness.
She teaches biology and microbiology at Florida Southwestern State College, where
she integrates her love for nature into her teaching and research. Amanda is also a Shell
Ambassador for the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum and Aquarium and serves on the
Calusa Waterkeeper Advisory Council, emphasizing her commitment to protecting Florida’s
waterways.
Amanda’s work has been featured in galleries and exhibitions across Southwest Florida,
including the Arts for ACT Gallery and the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Her pieces
resonate with collectors who appreciate the intersection of scientific accuracy and artistic
expression. Through her art, Amanda seeks to inspire curiosity, appreciation, and action,
reminding us of the wonders of nature and the importance of its stewardship.
Come view these creative artworks and support ACT Gallery.