Artist Spotlight: Jim Gray

Artist Jim Gray has roots in Hardeman County. Although he grew up in South Carolina, it was his visits to his grandfather's farm in Middleton, TN that were many of his early inspirations. He moved to the Smokey Mountains after serving in the Korean War. He became nationally recognized for his paintings in 1968 when his works appeared in National Geographic Magazine. Although a prolific painter, he has also created numerous bronze statues, including the Dolly Parton bronze in Pigeon Forge, and several Presidential works.

From his many visits to Hardeman County and childhood memories of Hardeman County, he has created numerous paintings based on the area, including his grandfather's farm. View more of Jim Gray's work on the Bolivar Hardeman County Library Website and at Gray's official site.