WATERCOLORS ON DISPLAY AT KELLER LIBRARY

DEXTER -- As a part of the Dexter Public Library's 60th anniversary, a special art exhibit is planned featuring the work of a local artist.

Ed Boyt will be showing his watercolors at the Keller Public Library this Sunday, Feb. 20, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Boyt, who retired from the U.S. Army in 1981, started painting with watercolors while living in Naples, Fla. His first efforts were hand-painted Christmas cards that he sent to friends. The response to the cards surprised and inspired him to continue the work. Although an art major at Southeast Missouri State University, a career in the Army and 25 years had passed without him doing any work in this field.

"In the beginning, I threw away more things than I kept," said Boyt.

After developing his own technique, Boyt entered various art shows in Florida. He enjoyed success in the sale of his works and expanded his itinerary to other parts of the country.

During this period he met other watercolorists and discussed their methods and styles. Soon, "my own personal style began to emerge in my work," Boyt said.

"If I've learned anything about watercolors or any other media, for that matter you have to please yourself first and then everything else seems to fall in place," Boyt said. "Watercolors are no different than any other discipline. Success is gained but only after practice, practice, practice."

He normally paints from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. each morning.

"After that, I declare victory for the day and go for a job," he said.