Artist / Author J. Michael Orr graduated from San Francisco State College, later pursuing graduate work at Golden Gate College. He also attended the California College of Arts and Crafts. He and his wife presently live along the Truckee River in the small community of Verdi, Nevada.

Mr. Orr's background includes work in both the Criminal Justice and Medical professions. He eventually left those professions to become a full time artist, gaining widespread recognition throughout California's Wine Country. His past work has been exhibited extensively in the Napa Valley as well as Carmel, California. His originals and fine art prints are in collections world wide.

While living in California, the artists " Wine Theme " art was highly sought after by the wine industry. During that period, he completed commercial work for many well known wineries including Robert Mondavi, Domaine Chandon, Christian Brothers, Franciscan, Inglenook, Robert Craig, Folie a Deux, V. Sattui, Beringer, Spring Mountain Vineyards, and Buena Vista.

Apart from his artistic endeavors, Mr. Orr is a published author and Napa Wine Country consultant. His popular book  " A Day or Two in the Napa Valley " has been referred to as

" One of the best Travel Guides ever written for those visiting the Napa Valley." He has conducted wine tours of the Napa Valley for individuals and corporations from around the world.

Although the artists early work was more realistic, recent work has evolved into a more contemporary modern direction. His artwork is a reflection of his fascination with the ethereal beauty of God's creation, especially shimmering luminescent skies. Original paintings are rendered mostly on canvas by combining acrylics and special mixed mediums; achieving brilliant iridescent glowing effects.

Mr. Orr's philosophy regarding his work is simple. He sums it up by referring to an old friends advice years ago. " If one wishes to be creative......take lessons from the creator."

" The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the

work of his hands"                                                      Psalm 19 : 1

" Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus "

                                                                                Philippians 3 : 4