Artist Portrait: Richard Coyne

Exhibit: Richard Coyne's "The Color, Light & Forms of the Lowcountry" runs from Feb. 12 to March 8 at the Art League Gallery of Hilton Head in Pineland Station. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. An opening reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 12.

About the artist: Coyne moved to the Lowcountry about two years ago from New York City, where he painted murals and more. He's an internationally published illustrator and artist, working with groups such as UNICEF.

Style: Coyne has been practicing plein air -- or open air -- oil painting since moving to the Lowcountry. He sets up his canvas alongside a marsh or striking landscape and paints in the

moment. He visits a spot up to a dozen times before finding the right time of day or season to paint. He may even paint a half dozen different versions of a piece before feeling comfortable with the result.

In his words: "I try to paint the untouched places, which are becoming harder and harder to find."