About the Artist

About the Artist

About the Artist

Gaye Frances Willard is an award-winning artist with commissioned portraits in both private and public collections worldwide.

Gaye is an award-winning artist with commissioned portraits in both private and public collections worldwide. Since childhood, Gaye has always loved to create. After studying art at Asbury University, she later earned her BS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, with an Art Minor, from High Point University. Though primarily a self-trained portrait artist, Gaye has had the privilege to study with renowned portraitists such as Gordon Wetmore and Bart Lindstorm.

In 1997, she painted her first oil portrait and completely fell in love with portraying the likeness of a person on canvas. She turned her passion into a business in the year 2000, when she began painting portraits. Especially drawn to faces and eyes, Gaye began creating one of a kind masterpieces for very satisfied customers.  She is the grateful recipient of state and local awards which have recognized her work.

As a lover of Christmas and the Christ it celebrates, Gaye began a series of paintings which point to His Deity. Each title includes a scriptural reference and incorporates the presence of Santa Claus as a representation of all humankind. Because the cross of Christ is central to the story of Christmas, it is painted into the background of every edition. The excitement, wonder, and true purpose of the Christmas season is the focus of Gaye’s Christmas artwork, for which she has gained considerable notoriety. Her painting, “Every Knee Shall Bow,” has been represented in an exclusive line bearing her name and was carried nationwide by Hobby Lobby and other gift markets.

In addition to her portraits, Gaye Frances is the author of six books. Four of these are children’s books which she has fully illustrated. She has also provided illustrations for other authors. In all of her work Gaye exhibits gifted dedication to detail and a desire to create something marvelously unique. This gift, along with a commitment to excellence, is what makes her an exceptional artist today. Whether you would like an oil portrait, a mural, or a pencil drawing, she would be honored to work with you to create a family heirloom that will last for generations. Contact Gaye to make your portraiture dream a reality.

Gaye is a member of The Portrait Society of America and the Northwest Randolph County Arts Council.