John Mecray
John Mecray grew up one block from the Atlantic Ocean in historic Cape May, New Jersey, where his family has deep roots. Encouraged by his parents and high school art teacher he applied and was accepted at the prestigious Philadelphia College of Art (Now the University of the Arts) where he majored in illustration and painting, maintaining a place on the Dean's List.

John decided to honor his military obligation after junior year by taking the Army up on its promise of duty in Europe - and spent 2 1/2 years "experiencing all the Continent had to offer". His first duty station was with the 2nd Armored Cavalry in Bayreuth, Germany, home of the Wagner Opera Festival - which broadened his love of classical music. Then he transferred to 7th Army Headquarters in Stuttgart and the 7th Army Symphony Orchestra and Soldier Shows Company where he was the set and poster designer. When the Soldier Shows tour neared an end he obtained the position of illustrator for the 7th Army's Psychological Warfare Unit - the 5th Loudspeaker and Leaflet Company. Each position allowed ample time to visit museums in every country in Western Europe. It was "a priceless experience".

John is a member of Mystic Seaport Museum's Yachting Committee, the New York Yacht Club, the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Herreshoff Marine Museum, among others. In addition to his deep commitment to yachting subjects John restored an 18th century house in the Historic Hill section of Newport and a rare 1936 MG/PB race car. He also designed and produced three high-quality books on the fabled Leica camera - of which he has a world-class collection.

HOLLANDS ART GALLERY & FRAMING (401) - 738-0990 INFO@HOLLANDS.COM