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.