Mandalay Bay Legends of Poker Las Vegas Art Exhibit

June 3, 2006 (Las Vegas, NV) - Mandalay Bay's Jack Gallery, in association with High Stakes Art and S2 Art Group Ltd., presented The Legends of Poker art exhibit on Friday night. Famous poker personalities Doyle Brunson, Thomas "Amarillo Slim" Preston, Stefanie and Madeline Unger, and Johnny Chan were present. They joined with several contemporary artists who showcased works in a variety of styles, including whimsical animations, lithographs and posters, romantic paintings and computer-enhanced photographs.

We're all familiar with CM Coolidge's "Dogs Playing Poker", with the cigar-chomping Doberman, human like St. Bernards and an inquisitive version of Lassie. But, this exhibit opened the doors for poker enthusiasts who might easier identify with alternative forms of gaming artworks. Jack Gallery offers pieces reflecting the gambler's lifestyle. These pieces are not only affordable, but also perfect for those who collect art for more than just art's sake.

Broadcaster, artist, and author, Larry Grossman was there with graphic digital artist Craig DeThomas, whose artworks already grace the walls of the Bellagio, Harrah's and Sunset Station. The Jack Gallery exhibit is the second for this team, who premiered in May at the local Las Vegas S2 Gallery on Main Street.

Grossman contributed to the much talked about Mount Rushmore piece, with the carved faces of Doyle Brunson, Stu Ungar, Phil Hellmuth and Johnny Chan, in place of the original images of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln.

Doyle Brunson and "Amarillo Slim" posed for photos and signed autographs for guests, adding to the air of substance surrounding the event. Brunson's image was used by several different contemporary artists, with pieces ranging from animated drawings and lithographic prints, to more romanticized oil creations.

Johnny Chan expressed his excitement over the exhibit. "I love this stuff," said Chan. "There's something for everybody here." His image was also depicted in several arrangements, including computer-enhanced photographs, paintings, and the popular Mount Rushmore creation.

Back-to-back World Series of Poker champion Stu Unger was represented by, the always poised and charming, Madeline Unger, along with her daughter Stefanie. The Ungers opened last year's World Series of Poker with a touching dedication to Stu Unger, then Stefanie kicked off the first hand with the announcement of, "shuffle up and deal." The Ungers are busy organizing the Unger Foundation, helping to treat people with addictions. They hope that the revenue generated by Stu Unger's images will help the foundation.

About The Artists

Polish born Rafal Olbinski, whose pieces have garnered more than 100 awards -including gold medals from the Society of Illustrators, and the Art Directors Club of New York, had several vivid and surrealistic imagery posters on display.

Waldemar Swierzy is also a Polish contemporary artist, whose honors include Polish Poster Biennale medals and a number of Hollywood Reporter's Key Art awards for movie designs. Swierzy is also featured in the Smithsonian Institute's Traveling Exhibition. The popular "Full House," "Poker Face," and "Royal Flush" prints, along with many others, are Swierzy's official works represented at this year's World Series of Poker. His style is edgy yet sophisticated with a bit of humor.

Brooklynite Mike Blatt designed artwork for advertising campaigns such as STP motor oil, Westinghouse, Phillip Morris, Chevron and Ford Motor Company. Blatt specializes in team logos and took part in creating the first art exhibition in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York.

Whatever your taste or budget, the Legends of Poker exhibit is the foremost poker and gaming themed collection of fine art collectibles, with some of the only licensed pieces distributed at the World Series of Poker. These hand-signed and numbered limited edition lithograph and mixed media artworks feature Las Vegas' true and enduring poker icons. The exhibit is a must see for Las Vegas tourists and there's something for every gaming enthusiast. Prices range from $20,00 - $800.00.

For more information, contact the Jack Gallery in Mandalay Bay Hotel Casino in Las Vegas at 702.632-4770. The gallery is located at the extreme front of the casino. Valet parking is available at the hotel front entrance.

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