Gary Word

About the Artist

Gary Word.

"Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity, because if you're passionate about something, then you're more willing to take risks."

Painter · Sculptor

Gary is available for commission to paint individual and family portraits.

A prolific, highly skilled artist — self-taught, with specialized art classes at Cornish and Pratt. Early on, Gary worked at two art frame shops, learning how to present art, which gave him the foundation to understand the business of art.

Eventually he broke away as an independent artist, excelling across many subjects and mediums over the years and selling many works. After moving to the Seattle Metro area, he pursued his love of art in all forms. He has donated to many area art auctions and foundations including Poncho, Gilda's Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, YMCA of Seattle, and Children's Hospital.

In early 2020 he transitioned from three-dimensional glass back to canvas — where he began at a very early age — refining his portraiture of iconic celebrities: creating depth and fine finish using airbrush, a refined range of brushes, and a vibrant color palette.

Cello, side profile

Cello — side profile.

Selected

Exhibitions

  • 2025 · JuneArt Scene West, San Diego
  • 2025 · MarchCorsica Galería, Puerto Vallarta, México
  • 2025Edmonds Annual Art Fair
  • 2022Lynn Hanson Gallery, Seattle
  • 2020National Liberty Museum, PA
  • 2019Tacoma Glass Museum, WA
  • 2014, 2016Frederick Holmes and Company Gallery, Seattle
  • 2013Cole Gallery, Edmonds, WA
  • 2013Hanson/Scott Gallery, Seattle
  • 2008Functional Art, Whidbey Island, WA
  • 2007Glass House Gallery, Seattle
  • 2007Network Artwork, Denver
  • 2004Nordstrom Gallery, Kirkland, WA
  • 2003The Desert Art Source, Palm Desert, CA
  • 1993–95Rovzer Nelson Gallery, Kirkland, WA
  • 1992National Museum, Washington, DC
  • 1986–88Stonington Gallery, Seattle

Guest Lectures

  • Highline Community College · 2011
  • UCLA · 2001