Cedar Key Arts Center Presents Memorial Exhibit

At one time the opportunity to view the works of distinguished artists was somewhat limited for our island community, unless we were willing to travel to "the big city". That has changed thanks to the efforts of the Cedar Key Arts Center. These dedicated volunteers work diligently to bring us exhibits in both a variety of mediums, and by a wide diversity of artists. This month's exhibit is a wonderful example of that ingenuity, and a fitting tribute to the artist presented.

Frederick E. "Fritz" Seyfarth was born in 1916, and very early in his youth showed a talent for drawing and painting. After high school he studied at the Art Institute, both refining his natural skills, and learning new ones. His talent was quickly recognized by the publishing house of Row Peterson (later to become Harper Row), where he worked as a freelance illustrator, and then as the Art Director. His artistic endeavors included service in the U.S. Navy as a military textbook illustrator, and as a freelance toy designer and catalog illustrator for Fisher Price. He retired in 1977, and moved to Cedar Key in 1997, where he continued to paint, inspired by the natural beauty around him. He passed away in January of 2002, leaving an unfinished work still sitting on his easel.

Some of the charming toys he designed, and the catalog illustrations.

A fascination with Egypt gave a new look to Seyfarth's paintings.

The Arts Center exhibit offers a rare look at both his professional and private work. From charming wooden pull toys, book illustrations and paintings, to military illustrations and family portraits, it is an astounding body of work by an extraordinarily skilled, and naturally talented artist. Thanks to the efforts of the Cedar Key Arts Center, and the Seyfarth family, you have the once in a lifetime chance to view this incredible collection; don't miss it!

An example of his book illustrations.

The Frederick Seyfarth Memorial Exhibit will be open to the public at the Cedar Key Arts Center (above the Keyhole on 2nd Street) for the month of January.

Florida wildlife enfluenced much of Seyfarth's later work.