Honoring Local Art Legend John Bayides

John Bayides' impressionist southern scenes have resonated in Georgia and overseas. In the early 2000s, he began a series of paintings depicting musicians - including a banjo player, violinist, and a man playing jug. These caught the eye of an art seller in Japan who purchased five of these works. According to Bayides, the seller made smaller reproductions labeled "limited editions" in English and Japanese to sell in galleries in Yokohama and Tokyo.

Bayides was delighted to gain fame in Japan, musing that "someone from a little town like this is selling something in Japan." Though his work gained international appeal, as evidenced by sales in Japan, Bayides remained grounded in his local community. He noted, "I could probably make a living selling [art] in a big city, but I'm not in it for the money. I do it for pleasure."

In the hall, we've recreated Bayides' art studio as a tribute to his lasting legacy. The display features his actual easel, paintbrushes, and other supplies he used to create these stunning works. It provides visitors a glimpse into his creative process.

We hope our exhibition allows more people to admire John Bayides' magnificent impressionist paintings of southern life. Experience scenes from his talented hand and brush yourself at The Willis Park Hotel.