Gayle Anita Biography

Noted wildlife artist, naturalist, illustrator, interior designer, lecturer, author, ceramist, canoeist, model, singer — the talents of Gayle Anita seem boundless.  An artist and student of wildlife since early childhood, her paintings and drawings have a rare quality of skill and accuracy infused with their subjects’ own subtle expressions and spirit.
At home in the wilderness, her work reflects an identity with nature and its wild creatures. Gayle works in multi media — acrylic, oil, pastel, pen and ink, ceramic. Her mosaics utilizing handmade tiles and natural materials are some of her most impressive works.  One of these is pictured below. Inspired by the Maidu people’s reverent usage of the Flicker’s vivid plumage in their ceremonial regalia, so often seen at PWT events, she created this mosaic of a Maidu dancer wearing his Flicker headband in a scene by the bank of the American River near her home.  Many of the tiles were specially fashioned by her to create the atmosphere she sought.  The dancer’s necklace is an inlaid replica in abalone and glass beads of a historic specimen. Associated with PWT since 1975, Gayle has not only exhibited her artistic creations,  but managed the Pacific Western Traders Gallery for several years, coordinated special projects and exhibits on and off the premises, and  remains a valued supporter.