Gary Borse paints colorful Florida landscape paintings have been featured in many invitational and solo exhibits, recently including one in the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee. Last year, he was awarded first place in acrylic painting in the book “The Best Artists and Artisans of Florida 2006.” “Gary’s wonderful use of color in these large paintings announces the majesty of Florida landscapes and inspires closer reflection of how we know and perceive our world,” said Florida Museum assistant director for exhibits Darcie MacMahon. The Chicago-born artist now lives in Florida, raising cattle and riding horses when not at the easel. Borse says his horses help him find his best subjects by taking him to places that most people cannot reach. “Riding through swamps and hammocks, what I have seen is so stunning that it forces you to think about Florida’s past, as well as questions it's fragile future while you are in its midst,” Borse said.