The Lyons Share Gallery in Fairhope will present the paintings of Tres Taylor during First Friday ArtWalk, Aug. 3, 6-8 PM.

Most people are amazed to learn that Taylor was a biochemist for over 20 years and did not begin painting until in 1999. His work focuses on spiritual seeking.

Taylor paints about love, divine love, peace and joy. His subjects are usually monks, couples and houses, but the subjects are always symbols of love.

Taylor’s usual medium is tarpaper, which enables him to draw freely, carving in a strong black line. With layers of mud, sometimes Alabama red clay, his paintings boast a rich, yet raw texture.

Taylor says “I am closest to God when I am painting. He uses my hands to show my brothers and sisters what he has shown me, which is, when our hearts are free to love, then we will see and experience the world as Gerald Manley Hopkins once wrote, as being ‘charged with the grandeur of God.’”

Taylor has exhibited in Japan, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Louisiana, Florida and Pennsylvania.

He resides in Birmingham with his wife, and two stepchildren. They work and play in Mentone, Ala. during the summer.

For more information on this special event, contact The Lyons Share Gallery at (251) 928-2507.

The Lyons Share is located at 330 De La Mare Ave. in Fairhope.