Gary Dagnan has been drawing and painting since childhood. Gary is a Tennessee native. He was born and grew up in the East Tennessee area. His inspiration comes from the rural landscapes of this area. "Most of my paintings are of the mountains, hills, lakes and buildings of this area. I enjoy the changing light and colors that come from the distinctly different seasons of Tennessee."

Gary is a graduate of The University of Tennessee. He has a BFA degree in Graphic Design and an MS degree in Art Education. He has been employed by The University of Tennessee for 36 years.

Gary began painting watercolors in 1968, as an art student at the University of Tennessee. Although he has painted almost exclusively in watercolor since then, Gary also enjoys painting in oils and acrylics. "I like the spontaneity and versatility of watercolor, but I am also excited about the unique qualities and the look of oil and acrylics."

Gary began exhibiting his work in 1970 and had his first one-man-show in 1971. He has had six one-man-shows since then. He has participated in numerous national, state and regional art shows. His paintings are represented in many private and public collections throughout the United States. Awards include purchases from Hunter Museum of Art, Dulin Gallery of Art, C & C Bank, Roane State Community College, Ruby Tuesday's, and TVA.