Jerry Gates Collection
About Jerry Gates
n 1976, Jerry Gates moved to the Grand Traverse region, drawn by its world-class trout fishing and the pristine rivers that support it. Spending countless days along cold, clean streams not only fueled his passion for fly fishing but also shaped his artistic vision. The beauty, mystery, and untamed character of these landscapes became central themes throughout his career.
A lifelong art educator and accomplished painter, Jerry has influenced thousands of students while building an extensive body of work inspired by the places he loves most. Whether standing in a trout stream or in front of a canvas, his goal has always been the same—to capture the beauty and wild spirit of Northern Michigan.
“Rivers, to me, are visceral, mysterious paths full of beauty, power, and secrets. They give me energy, a certain aesthetic, and a rawness that I have been trying to portray through my art for many years.”
Why CRA?
In 2019, Jerry Gates made an extraordinary commitment to the future of Northern Michigan’s rivers by signing a gift agreement donating his personal collection of original artwork to Conservation Resource Alliance. After a lifetime of painting and fishing the region’s wild places, Jerry chose to ensure his artwork would continue inspiring others while supporting the landscapes that have shaped his life.
Jerry believes the rivers, forests, and wild landscapes that inspire his art deserve the same care and stewardship that have shaped his own experiences outdoors. He sees Conservation Resource Alliance’s mission as a natural extension of his life’s work.
“Because of the work of CRA, I have donated my ongoing art collection… It is my hope that they will raise needed capital to continue their efforts to protect what remains of our great Northern treasures.”
Browse the Collection
Every purchase from The Jerry Gates Collection directly supports Conservation Resource Alliance’s mission to restore Michigan’s rivers and habitats through collaborative, on-the-ground conservation.
Deep Water Bend
Medium: Mixed Media
Autumnal Light
Medium: Mixed Media
Green Grove
Medium: Mixed Media