PALM BEACH - An art exhibition by contemporary artist Reza to benefit the Adam Walsh Children's Fund was held at the Roof Gardens atop Northbridge Center on Flagler Drive. It was a premier preview exhibition, "Chocolate and Roses," of recent contemporary paintings by the internationally known artist. A portion of the sales from the week-long exhibit benefited the Walsh Children's Fund.

The Adam Walsh Children's Fund promotes child development programs and supports the current operation of informational and safety programs for families throughout the United States.

Born in Persia, artist Reza's earliest memories are the sounds of revolution gunfire. He realized his artistic abilities as a young child and attempted to pursue his creativity despite family and social pressures demanding he adopt a so-called "honorable" profession. His parents sent him to America to study engineering, a respected career. In 1978, he became an American citizen. After subsequent work as a graphic artist and operation of a multi-million dollar graphic arts and communication company in Washington, D.C., Reza decided to give it all up.

In 1985, Reza (pronounced REHZAH) moved to Florida to dedicate himself to the canvas. As an American contemporary artist, Reza takes images from commonplace and commemorative sources and makes vogue representations by using typically unnoticed detail.

His vast acrylics of chocolate candy bars, luscious Oreo Cookies, fudge laced cherry cake, and spills of M&M candies originated from recollections of his youth and the colorfully wrapped treats his father brought him when he retuned from his travels.

After a brief visit to Holland and subsequent series of floral paintings, Reza combined the two, resulting in "Chocolates and Flowers." He is now working on another strange combination, "Guns and Roses."

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