Exhibitions, Works & Press
On view from May 1 through May 30 in the Alliance's Member Gallery, Dreamscaping brings together artists working across media to explore the blurred boundary between reality and the imagined. Through surreal, abstract, and non-objective approaches, the exhibition invites viewers into spaces shaped by memory, symbolism, and perception. Zirzow's work contributes to this dialogue through narrative-driven wildlife imagery that merges direct observation with imagination. Her paintings often begin in real encounters with animals and natural environments before shifting into a more symbolic space, where familiar subjects take on emotional and psychological weight. [...]
Amanda C. Zirzow has been recognized by Biafarin, an international platform presenting contemporary artists within a global collector context. The distinction includes the awarding of a promotional badge, marking her inclusion among a curated selection of artists positioned within the international market. Zirzow's work engages the natural world through a disciplined visual language defined by saturated color, controlled movement, and layered composition. Rooted in direct experience with marine and ecological environments, the paintings translate observation into atmosphere—balancing precision with abstraction while maintaining a strong visual presence. [...]
Fort Myers, FL — The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center (SBDAC) presents Between Worlds: The Language of Animal Spirits, a captivating group exhibition exploring the powerful connections between humans and the animal world. Opening March 6 at 6:00 PM in the Capital Gallery, the exhibition runs through March 26 at 5:00 PM. Rooted in symbolism, mythology, and cultural traditions, Between Worlds invites viewers into a realm where animals serve as guides, protectors, and reflections of the human spirit. Drawing inspiration from Mexican folk art alebrijes and Native American spirit symbolism, the exhibition brings together a diverse group of artists whose work [...]
(FORT MYERS, Fla. – August 17, 2022) – Amanda Zirzow will have a solo exhibition titled “Eternity” from October 7th through October 17th at the historic Sidney Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers. The exhibition will feature over 20 original works of art created in her unique “X-Ray Expressionism” style in the Capital Gallery upstairs. Many of the original paintings displayed will be brand new artwork, never before seen by the public. It will also feature some original work on loan from private collectors all around Florida. “Mother and Child” by Amanda Zirzow Zirzow is known for her colorful, ocean life artwork and [...]
FORT MYERS December 1, 2022 — Amanda Zirzow has been selected for recognition of the efforts made in the international selection of the Pinacothèque for the Luxembourg Art Prize. Each year, the Luxembourg Art Prize aims to reveal and promote talented artists who have yet to establish a profile on the contemporary international scene. Its function is to discover artists, and it is open to any artist, amateur or professional, with no limits on age, nationality, or place of residence. Amanda Zirzow, a professional artist and owner of Zirzow Gallery, says, “I am honored to be recognized by this prestigious organization. Sharing my [...]
There is a quiet rhythm beneath the surface—where movement is fluid, light is filtered, and encounters unfold without warning. In this piece, a Sea Otter drifts through the layered stillness of a kelp forest, suspended between play and presence. The strands rise and fall around him, creating a space that feels both open and enclosed. Within that motion, a smaller life exists—easily overlooked, yet essential. The Kelp Crab emerges not as a focal point, but as a discovery. What begins as an accidental meeting becomes something more enduring. The interaction between these two forms carries a sense of tension and release, a moment of [...]
This February, Arts for ACT Gallery in downtown Fort Myers will feature the vibrant and dynamic artwork of Amanda Zirzow. The exhibition opens with a reception on Friday, February 7, from 5 to 9 p.m., in conjunction with the Fort Myers Art Walk. Known for her striking use of color and attention to detail, Zirzow’s work explores the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Her background as a biologist and environmental educator informs her artistic approach, allowing her to blend scientific accuracy with expressive techniques. This collection highlights the resilience of Florida’s ecosystems, from the delicate balance of coral reefs to the thriving life found in mangroves and estuaries. [...]
In June, the Something Wild collection was exhibited at DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts’ new location on the Alliance for the Arts campus. This exhibition marked a significant milestone, blending scientific curiosity with artistic expression. The opening reception on June 7 welcomed visitors, collectors, and fellow artists, fostering engaging discussions on conservation, biodiversity, and the inspirations behind the artwork. Throughout the month-long exhibition, conversations centered on the intersection of science and art, emphasizing the power of visual storytelling to spark curiosity about the natural world. A background in biology continues to shape this creative perspective. Experiences ranging from work at the University of Arizona’s [...]
Cape Coral, FL — The City of Cape Coral will host a Utility Box Art Unveiling Ceremony on Friday, April 15, 2022, at 10:00 AM, located at 1023 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral, FL 33904, in front of Dixie Roadhouse. Local artist Amanda Zirzow has been selected as one of fifteen artists whose work will be featured as part of this public art initiative in Downtown Cape Coral. Her piece, Burrowing Owls in the Starry Night, will be on permanent display as part of the city’s effort to enhance public spaces through art. Zirzow submitted the work in response to a call for [...]
Naples, FL — The community is invited to attend Bears Across Collier, a unique art auction and community event benefiting the Florida Wildlife Federation, on Saturday, April 16, 2022, from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM at Cambier Park, located at 755 8th Ave S, Naples, FL. Hosted by Palmetto Ridge High School, this collaborative initiative brings together student craftsmanship, local artists, and wildlife conservation efforts. Students from the school’s Construction Academy designed and built wooden bear sculptures, which were then “adopted” by 22 local artists and transformed into one-of-a-kind works of art. The completed bear sculptures will be showcased at the Norris Center [...]
(FORT MYERS, Fla. – March 07, 2022) Zirzow Gallery, the namesake art business of local Fort Myers based professional artist, Amanda Zirzow, has opened a new retail space upstairs in historic The Franklin Shops in downtown Fort Myers. Zirzow had been in the store multiple times and been admiring the art in the upstairs section and noticed a space available. Upon making contact with the manager of the store, Zirzow was offered a spot to display and sell her colorful, ocean-life and starry-night themed art and gift items. “I was impressed with the atmosphere of the store, the great location of the [...]
Amanda Zirzow's Primavera Eterna was selected for the 36th Annual All Florida Exhibition at the Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers, a juried show featuring contemporary artists from across the state. Inspired by Botticelli's Primavera, the work reinterprets classical themes through layered symbolism and a distinctive “X-ray Expressionism” style that explores contrast, color, and the relationship between life and death. [...]
Art Aid Naples Presents the 2nd Annual Quick Draw Artists Capture Naples in Real Time Through Live Painting Naples, FL — Art Aid Naples returns with its 2nd Annual Quick Draw on November 27, 2021, a vibrant live painting event where artists transform blank canvases into finished works in just a few hours. Set against the scenic backdrop of Cambier Park, the event invites the public to witness the creative process unfold in real time. Blending performance, skill, and spontaneity, the Quick Draw highlights the immediacy of plein air and live painting. Visitors can engage directly with artists, observe techniques up close, and experience [...]
Naples, FL — The 2021 Natural Selections: Painting Annual Exhibition will be on view from November 2, 2021, through January 26, 2022, at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, part of the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Presented by the Friends of Rookery Bay and the United Arts Council of Collier County, this annual juried exhibition features paintings by artists from across Southwest Florida, including Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee counties. The exhibition highlights works that capture and interpret the essence of Florida’s native flora and fauna. Artist Amanda Zirzow has been selected to exhibit her painting, Badfish, a vivid and thought-provoking [...]
For the 2021 Gala at Arts for ACT Gallery, selected artists were invited to transform mannequins into original works of art for exhibition and auction. Girl Before a Mirror was created as a contemporary homage to Pablo Picasso’s iconic composition, reinterpreted through a color-rich, expressive lens. The piece was presented alongside a custom painted mirror and an accompanying work, Picasso’s Pattern (36″ × 24″ × 1.5″, acrylic on canvas), forming a cohesive, multi-dimensional installation. Together, these works explored reflection, identity, and the layered nature of perception. <iframe src="https://faso.video/embed/123759-14595-video" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen> </iframe> Proceeds from the auction supported the [...]
Dark Art Exhibition Returns to Fort Myers with Bold Explorations of the Macabre Annual Showcase at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center Fort Myers, FL — Each October, the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center presents one of its most anticipated exhibitions of the year: the Dark Art Exhibition, a compelling showcase of works that delve into themes of darkness, horror, and the macabre. Presented by the Syzygy Collaborative Art Project, the exhibition has, over the past five years, brought together a striking and diverse collection of artists whose work challenges viewers to confront the unfamiliar, the unsettling, and the deeply imaginative. Through [...]
Sanibel, FL — January 28, 2022 — Amanda Zirzow has been selected to exhibit her painting Paradiso in the prestigious “Creative Ventures” Juried Exhibition at BIG ARTS Sanibel. The exhibition is on view from January 28 through March 13, 2022 in the Dunham Family Gallery. Presented by BIG ARTS, this annual juried exhibition showcases a curated selection of artists from across the globe. The 2022 “Creative Ventures” theme challenges artists to explore new ideas, styles, and mediums, resulting in fresh, one-of-a-kind works that reflect innovation and artistic growth. The exhibition is highly competitive, with previous years featuring just over 60 selected works from [...]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Battle of the Arts Brings Live Creativity and Community Impact to Fort Myers Monthly Event at Bell Tower Shops Supports Local Artists and Nonprofits Fort Myers, FL — The Battle of the Arts, a dynamic monthly event hosted by Artsemble Underground at Bell Tower Shops, brought together artists and the community in a vibrant celebration of creativity, collaboration, and giving back. Designed as both a live art experience and a philanthropic initiative, the event invited artists of all styles and mediums to create original works within a three-hour time frame. Open to the public and free to attend, visitors engaged directly [...]
(Fort Myers, Fla. – April 1, 2021) The Arts for ACT Gallery will showcase the original artwork of Amanda Zirzow during her first solo exhibition themed “A Starry Night in May.” The opening reception will be May 7th from 6:00 – 9:00 PM at the Arts for ACT Gallery and Amanda’s artwork will be on display during the entire month of May. Amanda Zirzow is a prolific, self-taught artist and an Arts for ACT Gallery member artist and volunteer. Her bold, colorful, expressionist style of artwork is inspired by encounters from wildlife and her scuba diving adventures. Combined with her unique style, [...]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Amanda C. Zirzow Debuts Solo Exhibition Inspired by Nature and the Starry Night A Celebration of Science, Art, and Transformation at Arts for ACT Gallery Fort Myers, FL — Artist Amanda C. Zirzow presented her debut solo exhibition at Arts for ACT Gallery, unveiling a vibrant collection of original works inspired by the natural world and the atmospheric beauty of the night sky. At the center of the exhibition was Burrowing Owls in the Starry Night (16″ × 12″ × 0.75″, acrylic on canvas), a work that reflects Zirzow’s distinctive approach—merging scientific observation with expressive, color-rich painting. Influenced by Vincent van Gogh, [...]
