GERALD D. HANNAH was born in Oklahoma.  At an early age the family moved to Gardena, California where Gerald attended junior and senior high schools.  It was during this time that he discovered the magnificent art collection at Gardena High School.  The collection included not only most of the great California artists, but also prominent artists from across the country.  The paintings were displayed in classrooms and hallways, the cafeteria and auditorium.  Surrounded by art it was at this point in time that Gerald decided to pursue a career as an artist.

Attending ART CENTER SCHOOL OF DESIGN in Los Angeles, Gerald completed the basic curriculum and then transferred to CHOUINARD ART INSTITUTE  in Los Angeles where he concurrently attended selected classes at OTIS ART INSTITUTE.  Graduating with a Bachelor or Arts Degree, Gerald then entered the world of commercial art doing freelance illustrations for various art studios and publishers.  Not suited to the life style of a freelance artist he decided to settle in a more stable environment, and made a decision to teach and exhibit his work.  Continuing his education  Gerald earned a teaching credential and Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from California State University, Los Angeles and a Master of Fine Arts degree from California State University, Northridge.

For three decades he taught adult education and high school students.  He also provided teacher training for art teachers.  At the California Art Institute in Westlake Village he taught figure and landscape painting.  Selecting watercolor as his primary medium he continued studies with various prestigious artists including  Rex Brandt, Robert E. Wood, Milford Zornes, Ed Reep and Noel Quinn. 

Gerald participates in both local and national shows.  His work is noted for his California style of watercolor painting with a variety of
subjects, including, but not limited to, landscapes, seascapes, portraits and figures.  He has shown his work in several galleries including:  Ruzzelo, Cove, Shoshone and Surf & Sand.  He was also privileged to exhibit at White Tops Gallery along with artists  Rex Brandt, Robert E. Wood, George Post and Millard Sheets.

His painting “Sculpture Studio in Florence” earned the First Place Award at the 2001 National Watercolor West Show.  The painting was
published in both Watercolor Magic and International Artist magazines. In addition, Gerald has judged shows for several art organizations including The National Watercolor Society.

His painting “Sculpture Studio in Florence” earned the First Place Award at the 2001 National Watercolor West Show.  The painting was
published in both Watercolor Magic and International Artist magazines. In addition, Gerald has judged shows for several art organizations including The National Watercolor Society.