Introduction by Jay Goulde.

For more than twenty five years, St. Petersburg native, Silas Clifton Gatewood III, better known as Silas "Beach," has been creating artwork that brings to life the awesome beauty of marine life, mammals, reptiles, rainforests and all things tropical. Aside from being an internationally recognized artist, amateur herpetologist and avid horticulturist, Silas is also known for his near-encyclopedic knowledge of all things Bob Dylan.

From humble beginnings, Silas has become a local folk hero, thanks to Frenchy of “Frenchy’s Restaurants of Clearwater Beach.” Starting in the 1980’s with the bathrooms and then the largest south wall of the “Frenchy’s Original” restaurant, Silas created a unique tropical tone which has now become the brand for each of Frenchy’s four restaurants.

Silas’ public exposure and accolades has led to numerous commissioned paintings, murals and sculptures from his diverse clientele. Silas also lends his creativity to apparel, tropical tabletop and furniture designs which populate the Gulf beaches of Florida.

As recently as 2006 Silas found himself in a Tampa warehouse signing a giant 50’ x 100’ print of one of his tropical lizards. After being placed high atop the Franklin Exchange building, overlooking downtown Tampa, the “Mona Lisard” quickly became a cherished landmark.

If you travel on Gulf Boulevard in Pinellas County it would be hard to miss his fishy characters lining the full length of the circuitous route... The mile markers that appear every 5280 feet along the beach are of Silas’ design.

Silas’s professional accomplishments are matched only by his altruistic nature and constant involvement with local charities, specifically, those focusing on the arts, animals and the welfare of children.

Today, Silas has expanded his capabilities and presently has several associate artists working for and with him. His work can be seen in private collections throughout Florida and the world.