An Alabama native, Jim Gray got his start drawing at the young age of 16 by working as an illustrator for an ad agency. From there he went on to serve in the United States Air Force where he spent the end of his term as a technical illustrator. Upon returning home from the Air Force, Gray combined his skill of art with his previous knowledge in the advertising industry to help start his own company. Business was booming, but Gray’s passion for drawing and creating pulled him away from the advertising world, and toward a family vacation to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
From the moment Gray first saw the scenic Smoky Mountains he knew his life was forever changed. Leaving his job at the ad agency, Gray and his family moved to East Tennessee where he then dedicated his life to capturing the beauty of the foggy hills he now called home.
Nearly 50 years have passed since Gray first made the move from Alabama to East Tennessee. Since his move, the talented Smoky Mountains artist has captured awe-inspiring scenes such as the magnificent Smoky Mountains fall leaves, many babbling creeks, soaring wild eagles, spring time flowers, and more. Beyond the Smoky Mountains, Gray’s talent has captured several beautiful ocean scenes, portraits, and even a bronze sculpture of Ms. Dolly Parton herself.
Want to see some of Gray’s breath taking work for yourself? Today the Smoky Mountains artists has two gallery locations. The first gallery is in Gatlinburg inside the Shops at Carousel Gardens, directly off the Gatlinburg Parkway. The second gallery is located in the heart of Pigeon Forge. Both galleries are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
Interested to see the mountains that inspired Gray for yourself? Timber Tops Luxury Cabin Rentals invites guests to come stay with us inside one of our spacious Gatlinburg cabins. Located just minutes from the Parkway, these secluded mountain getaways are the perfect place for you and your family to spend time together in the Smokies this season. To begin booking your next stay today, give us a call at 1-800-266-1066.
