In 1980, Fran Panza was inducted as a member of the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh (founded 1910), the second oldest art association in the United States. Past members include Berthe Morrisot, Andy Warhol, Samuel Rosenberg, and Henry Koerner, Fran’s mentor and former cover artist for Time magazine.

Since induction, Fran has received several awards, ribbons and monetary incentives. Fran’s work has been shown in such illustrious places as the Carnegie Museum of Fine Art, the Frick Fine Arts Museum, and the Andy Warhol Museum. His paintings have been shown in touring shows throughout the US, as well as on the Today Show. Fran has done still-life paintings as small as 6 inches square, murals that measure 30 feet high by 120 feet long – and everything in between.

Fran is a realist painter, who often combines realities from several different locations to create curious, and sometimes enigmatic, perspectives on life. Most of his work falls into the genre of “magic realism” which has been defined as “the interdependence between reality and fantasy.” Fran brings this same talent and genius to his work on the DaVinchy Chapter Book Series!

Fran’s work as a graphic artist has appeared on ESPN and CNN. His commercial illustrations have been commissioned by such clients as RCA, Westinghouse, Remington, Benelli, Barbour, DuPont and nearly all the Atlantic City Casinos. His graphic designs have appeared in such publications as USA Today, Sports Afield, Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, and untold numerous technical annuals in diverse areas.

Fran is also the proud illustrator of all the DaVinchy Chapter Book Series and a soon to be published book about Dr. Walter.