A Stroke of Genius

Christopher M., the famed "Painter of Chefs," will appear at Portland's Shaffer Fine Art Gallery to collaborate with Pazzo Ristorante's executive chef, John Eisenhart, on a dynamic live performance of painting and Pazzo cuisine.

Christopher M. continues to be recognized and acclaimed by art critics and collectors alike for his ability to capture some of today's most celebrated chefs in their element. Some recent chefs he has painted include:  Kevin Rathbun of Atlanta (recent Iron Chef champion), Gavin Kaysen of New York (chef at Café Boulud in NYC and judge on Bravo's Top Chef), Kevin Gillespie of Atlanta (finalist on Bravo's Top Chef), Brian Malarkey of San Diego (also a finalist on Bravo's Top Chef) and Chef Paul McCabe of L'Auberge Del Mar's KITCHEN 1540 in San Diego. He has also become the official artist for the national chain of Kimpton Hotel Restaurants.

Art collectors and foodies will enjoy this entertaining intersection of the visual and culinary arts as Christopher M. paints Eisenhart while he conducts a cooking demonstration right in the gallery. The event will also feature a complimentary wine tasting by Rex Hill and music performances by concert rock violinist Aaron Meyer.

At the event, a series of Christopher M.'s new original paintings will be on exhibit and for sale. The new oils were generated through a collaboration between Christopher M. and Eisenhart - the artist traveled to Portland to sketch and photograph the chef and the Pazzo team in November 2009.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the paintings will benefit p:ear, a Portland organization that builds positive relationships with homeless and transitional youth, ages 15 to 24, through education, art and recreation to affirm personal worth and create more meaningful and healthier lives.

EVENT INFO

Painter of Chefs Live
Location: Shaffer Fine Art Gallery
Address: 308 S.W. First Ave., Portland
Date/Time: May 1, 6-9 p.m.; May 2, noon-3 p.m.
Phone: 503-295-4979
Web: www.shafferfineart.com