Gary Farmer

While living in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Gary was diagnosed with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension in 1996 and given 2-5 years to live. He was placed on a lung transplant list, put on a portable IV pump 24/7, ordered to stop working, and advised to get his affairs in order.
Four years later, he left nearly everything behind except his clothes and an old Dodge Caravan. Moving to Boynton Beach, Florida, he stayed with his youngest daughter and her husband. In 2002, determined not to wait to die, Gary decided to channel his energy into something creative. Having been a carpenter for over 15 years, he applied his skills to art by combining painted backgrounds with miniature carpentry techniques and repurposed found objects, creating a unique form of 3-D wall art. Inspired by island life and Jimmy Buffett lyrics, his pieces have a distinctive “pop.”
Since beginning this artistic journey, Gary’s health has mysteriously improved, amazing his doctors. He believes God has a purpose for him, and art may be part of it. His work has been featured on HGTV and covered by local newspapers and TV stations. He has won several awards at South Florida art shows.
Though his prognosis remains uncertain, Gary is grateful for the second chance at life. He embraces a motto of never giving up, doing what he enjoys, and keeping faith. Now residing in St. Augustine, Florida, he encourages others to maintain a positive attitude regardless of their latitude, because it can change their attitude. Gary hopes his creations bring as much joy to others as they do to him during their creation.