An opening reception for the Bayides Art Exhibit at the Firehouse Arts Center Thursday evening drew a good crowd of friends old and new.

Bayides was a long-time resident of Attapulgus who had a studio at his home, painted daily after his retirement from Engelhard Corporation. He passed away at the age of 94 on December 7, 2017.

Grandson, John Bayides III, a resident of Savannah, was on hand to meet and greet exhibit attendees and share some of the memories of his beloved grandfather.

He acknowledges that the grandfather had a strong influence on him and his life. As a result, the extensive reserve of paintings left in the home and studio were willed to him.

Now, he is trying to figure what to do with so many of them.

The bulk of artworks displayed in the exhibit belong to the grandson and are listed for sale.

Also, there are a few selections in the show that are from the extensive collection of Bayides work owned by Henry and Barbara Intili. Those are identified as not for sale.

One wall of the exhibit filled with the detailed paintings of the historic homes on Shotwell Street is of particular interest. The rest of the gallery has an interesting diverse display of colorful subjects and styles for which Bayides was known.

More information about this extraordinary man, his life, work and passion for art will be featured in the new Bainbridge Living Magazine scheduled for distribution in October.

The Bayides Exhibit will continue to be open for public viewing Friday afternoons, Saturdays and Sundays, through September 30.