Cherree Mallette Studio
Cherree Mallette’s artistic vision is deeply rooted in her northeastern Ohio upbringing, where nature’s subtle patterns first inspired her creativity. With a rich heritage of Spanish, French, and Slovakian influences, she grew up surrounded by an environment that nurtured her appreciation for beauty and detail. After earning her AA from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and a bachelor’s in Studio and Painting from the University of Pittsburgh in 1980, Cherree briefly studied at the Academy of Fine Art before launching her career as an illustrator. Her move to Florida expanded her skills in graphic arts and printmaking, leading to a transition into full-time painting after personal challenges. Her acclaimed series, “The Unknown to be Known,” features photo-realistic black and white portraits that sparked community support for homeless shelters in Orlando. Later, inspired by Masaru Emoto’s work on water’s response to intention, she developed her “Splashparencies” series, blending photography and dry-brushed oil painting on paper. Cherree’s work is characterized by deliberate, layered techniques aimed at healing both viewers and the environment. Her art has been recognized with awards, solo exhibitions, and collection by notable figures including Disney’s Dick Nunus. Influenced by artists like Vincent van Gogh and Chuck Close, as well as musicians who inspire her synesthetic approach, she incorporates a rich cultural tapestry into her practice. Beyond painting, Cherree is a musician, swimmer, and committed advocate for art as a tool for healing and environmental stewardship, aspiring to establish a gallery devoted to peace and renewal.
Water is life. What we give to water, it gives back. Water heals and nourishes the soul. Cherree’s work seeks to express this eternal truth through visual storytelling that connects viewers with the healing energy of water.
Beyond the canvas, Cherree enjoys playing the guitar, songwriting, swimming in the ocean, and basking in the sun’s warmth. Despite the challenges of the Big Recession, COVID-19, and inflation, Cherree continues her artistic journey, dedicated to the vision of owning a gallery that offers peace and reflection. Her art is a testament to her belief in the transformative power of creativity and her commitment to a world of beauty, respect, and conservation. Cherree Mallette’s ongoing journey in art reflects her enduring passion to make the world a better place through her unique and poignant works.
Cherree’s ambition is to establish a gallery that transcends conventional exhibitions by serving as a sanctuary where art detoxifies the mind and soul, leaving visitors rejuvenated and in a positive state of mind.
My Technique
My technique—honed over years—is centered on mastering the transparency of water using oil paint on paper. The unique aspect of my work lies in its photographic realism, achieved without visible brush strokes. This method, painstakingly developed over time, lends my art a singular quality that blurs the line between painted creation and captured reality.
Through my work, I hope to instill a sense of life, serenity, and unceasing curiosity in those who encounter it, echoing the boundless inspiration I draw from the water.
The dry brush process works with oil paint straight from the tube. It is applied ever so lightly by brush, directly on acid free museum board and paper, repeating the application layer by layer to bring out the finer details and shadows.
Shown here is a collection of original work by Cherree Mallette. Inquire for more information.
Due to the delicacy of Cherree’s work you’re encouraged to view her pieces in person at her studio.
Awards, Recognitions, and Honors
Significant Exhibitions and Shows
- SNAP! – Group show featuring contemporary, international, and local artists
- Platform – Group show with international and local artists; proceeds benefitting breast cancer causes
- Solo Show – City Hall, Orlando; series titled “Unknown to Be Known”
- Society Four Arts – Museum group show of international and local artists
- Terrace Gallery, Orlando – Solo show
- Maitland Museum – Group show; awarded First Prize
- Fieman Gallery, New York – Represented artist
- Reef Gallery, Key Largo – Represented artist
- Jennifer Balcos Gallery, West Palm – Represented artist
- Ocean Art Gallery – Solo show as represented artist
- Disney Master Festival – Awarded Best of Show
- Gasparilla Festival, Tampa, Florida – Awarded Second Place
- Mt. Dora – Group showing of local artists
- Red Dot Miami / Art Basel 2020 – Honorable Mention Award / Purchase Award
- Exhibizone Group online exhibit presented by Biafarin International Exhibit – Awarded Second Place
- Expo Metro Group Online Exhibit International Hong Kong – December 2025
Awards, Recognitions, and Honors
- First Place, Disney Master of the Art Festival
- Second Place, Gasparilla Art Festival, Tampa, Florida
- Invitational solo exhibition offered by the Mayor of Orlando at City Hall
- Group Exhibition, Biafarin – Second Place International Show
- Red Dot Miami / Art Basel 2020 – Honorable Mention Award, International Show
- Portrait of Distinction / Portrait of Marvel Zona permanently hung in The Howey Mansion, Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida, a historic site
Notable Projects and Commissions
- Commissioned portrait of Marvel Zona, the second caretaker of The Howey Mansion in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida
Education
- Studied at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh
- Bachelor of Arts in Art History from the University of Pittsburgh
Professional Experience
- Curator roles in fine art galleries
- Art consultant and design consultant for fine art galleries
- Art installation professional with experience in museum and gallery environments
- Predator Packing and Shipping Art Specialist in museums
Publications and Media Coverage
Gallery Affiliations (2002–2018)
- S.E. Feinman Fine Arts Ltd. — SoHo, New York, NY
- Terrace Gallery — Orlando, FL
- Avalon Gallery — Orlando, FL
- Reef Gallery (Bruce Elliott) — Key Largo, FL
- Todd Allan Gallery — Sarasota, FL
- Meghan Candler Gallery — Vero Beach, FL
- Curated Interiors — Lakeland, FL
- CHAPMAN/LEONARD Studios & Production Center — Orlando, FL
- Jennifer Balcos — West Palm Beach, FL
Collections
- American Stage (In the Park Shakespeare) — St. Petersburg, FL
- Platform Art
- The Power of Pink — Libby’s Legacy Breast Cancer Foundation, Winter Park, FL
Commissions (Selected)
- Richard & Nicki Sobel — Peachtree, GA
- Lynn Vilmar — St. Petersburg, FL
- Isis & Gary Jones — Orlando, FL
- Dr. Thomas Vaughn, DMD — Orlando, FL
- Donna LeClair — Mount Ida, AR
- Dan Michael — Peachtree, GA
- Ann & Frank Recca — Longwood, FL
- Tina Silvestri — Houston, TX
- Dr. Valeh Levy — New York, NY
Life Size Portraits: By Commission Only
Fifteen years ago, today I came upon the Howey Mansion.
In the summer of 2009, I wanted to find a new location for a photo shoot, so I opened a Florida map, closed my eyes and pointed to the next area to be my destination. My finger landed on Howey-in-the-Hills.
From Route 19, I spotted a red tile roof peeking over the treetops. Curiosity made me turn sharply to find out what this architectural wonder was all about. Soon a large structure appeared, surrounded by fence, with a pair of high cast iron gates to protect it. This day, however, the gates were open, so I took the advantage and drove right in to find a well-designed Mediterranean-style home. I was magnetized. So many questions flowing through my head. When was this mansion of a home built in the middle of nowhere? By whom? And why, way out here?
As I was photographing, the sound of aged door hinges slowly opening drew my camera lens to the 8’ distressed wood double door. I placed my camera down and started to apologize to the old woman who appeared in the doorway for trespassing on her property. To my surprise, she appeared not bothered at all, and asked if I would like to come in. She introduced herself as Marvel Zona, and I walked back in time.
We talked over tea and Marvel told me the story of the Howey Mansion, designed by architect Katherine Budd, which was built in 1925 for William Howey, a businessman and innovator in the citrus industry. Howey was one of the first orange growers to ship fruit to England from Florida. Among the notable visitors to the Howey home were Sir Lord Bathurst of England, Kansas Governor Alfred Landon, and President Calvin Cooledge.
My visit with Marvel lasted the entire day. I asked Marvel if she would like to have dinner with me and then I’d be on my way. Marvel replied, “No dear, I’m fine, But I do have something to ask of you. “Sure,” I said, “What is it that you need?”
Marvel said, “Well, I have this vision that includes this mansion. I want to place this home as an historic site, and then open it to the public for celebrations, concerts and creative events.”
I replied, “What an excellent idea, Marvel, but I’m an artist. I know nothing about historical properties and permits. You need an architect or a lawyer, or both.” I thought a little, and said, “What I can do Is offer to paint a portrait of you and exhibit the piece when I do art shows.”
Sadly, while creating and exhibiting my portrait of Marvel, she passed away, leaving her dream unfinished and in my hands.
Fifteen years later, Marvel Zona is welcoming thousands into the warm interior of the Howey Mansion, that has become a wonderful place for a wide variety of events and celebrations through the efforts of people who followed Marvel’s dream. My 8’ tall painting of Marvel Zona adorns the broad lobby of the mansion as Marvel smiles her smile on all who enter.
Marvel’s dream lives every day and I smile as I remember that lady who warmed my heart in Howie-in-the-Hills.
Upcoming Exhibitions and Projects
- Currently preparing for upcoming museum shows to exhibit new works
- Maintaining an active studio practice focused on creating art that spreads positive vibes and contributes to a better living environment
Gallery Representation and Upcoming Shows
- Gallery 500, Daytona Beach, Florida, Daytona One
- Online International Group Exhibit Showing – Expo Metro, Hong Kong, December 5th – December 11th, 228 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai
- Solo Showing with Wal-Y-World Framing and Design, “Frozen Whispers,” December 2025
- Pop-up show at Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, April 2026, dates to be determined
- Solo Showing with Cobb & Cole Law Firm, Deland, Florida, Spring 2026, months to be determined
- Gallery Representation – Gallery 500, Daytona Beach, Florida
Skills and Techniques
- Photography focused on capturing water splashes with conceptual intent
- Translation of photographic imagery into monochromatic minimalist oil paintings on paper
- Ability to manifest thematic concepts through the interplay of water, objects, and visual storytelling
Commissions
The Process
The first step includes a phone conversation to determine the scope of the art. The discussion includes the subject matter, size, location, and environment, estimated time onsite, any special requests and answer any questions about the art and process.
Cherree then meets onsite with you and anyone else associated with the artwork. This is done to get a feel of the subject(s) personality to best represent this in the art.
Cherree will then spend the necessary time photographing the subject(s) in their environment and capture them from her perspective. This is used as a reference for the art. Upon returning back to her studio she will create a pencil drawing to better show what direction she plans to take. You will receive an email of the drawing and be asked a time to discuss this with you.
Next, Cherree will start the art. This part of the process will take between 2 to 4 months depending on size and subject matter.
Upon completion the art will be sent to you.
If desired, additional collaboration is available for framing, placement and accessories to accent the art.
The Financial
After the preliminary conversation a fee is given in the form of a contract. The contract will need to be signed and returned with a payment of 1/3 of the fee.
Additional 1/3 of the fee is due after the drawing is emailed and a phone conversation is completed.
Upon completion and prior to shipping you will receive an email of the final art. At this point the final payment is due.
Note: The estimate may be altered depending on the onsite meeting, which may change the scope of the work. The change will be explained so that the buyer understands why the change.
Conclusion
When buying from Cherree you’re buying more than just a painting. You are buying the eyes, hands, education and mind of an artist that has dedicated her life to her art with hundreds of hours of failures and experimentation. You are buying days, weeks & months of frustration and moments of pure joy. You aren’t just buying a thing you’re buying a piece of the artist’s heart and soul – part of her life.
Be patient, this art is one of a kind, there is no science or magic, it will become a family heirloom for friends, family and you to enjoy for generations.
How You Can Help
Proudly Supporting
Proceeds
About the Water Institute, University of Florida
About The Water Institute, University of Florida
The University of Florida Water Institute brings together talent from throughout the University and builds internal and external partnerships to address urgent water research challenges; implement innovative interdisciplinary academic programs to train excellent students; and provide state-of-the-art expert assistance and educational programs for external stakeholders. Water Institute faculty represent a breadth of water specialties from geophysical, chemical, biological and social sciences, engineering, law and humanities.
Sherwood L. Stokes-Environment and Water Quality Scholarship
Sherwood L. Stokes provided this endowment through a bequest to support scholarships to students studying to improve and protect Florida’s environment in general, and water in in particular. Stokes worked his way through Florida’s southern college during the great depression by writing for field and stream, life and sports illustrated, After he earned his law degree from UF in 1948, he returned to Haines City, Fla., and started his own law firm. He became a lifelong environmental advocate and community activist. A member of the a Sierra Club and Audubon Society, Stokes helped found the Save Our Lakes program and encouraged the use of treated wastewater for irrigation.
He passed away in 1998.