Dennis Friel is a wildlife marine artist. His talents are a hybrid of design and fine art. Over the course of his career, he has pulled upon his mastery of a range of mediums to solidify himself as a creative influencer in the marine industry, especially in his home state of Florida. He is known for bringing game fish and underwater environments to life with vivid imagery that shows the constant flow of the ocean and the power of apex predators.

Dennis’ artwork is displayed at the world’s premiere fishing tournaments, on the transoms of top vessels, the backs of fishing team jerseys, and within the pages of the most respected publications. From Jimmy Buffett’s new vessel, Last Mango to Jimmy Johnson’s National Billfish Championship, the Custom Shootout and many more, Dennis has worked with the elite of the elite.

Dennis is a monthly illustration contributor for several top-level fishing publications, a brand ambassador for Maui Jim and Olukai, and was recently named The Billfish Foundation’s ‘Artist of the Year,’ one of several honors he’s received.

His large-scale works adorn the Intracoastal bridges of Pompano Beach, Florida. Dennis received the distinguished 2019 Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce’s Arts and Culture Award for his efforts on this beautification project.

As a true conservationist, he holds his support of our natural resources and fisheries unquestionably close to his heart. His charitable work for the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), The Billfish Foundation (TBF), Bonefish and Tarpon Trust, and the International Game Fish Association has been done with a great amount of purpose. He uses his creativity to help many charitable organizations with past efforts for the Boys and Girls Club, Surfers for Autism, and a current relationship with Freedom Fighters Outdoors (FFO) and the Special Olympics among his proudest pro-bono efforts to date.

Dennis Friel is an artist, fisherman, loving husband, and father of two children. Along with a dedicated staff, he operates a full-time art studio, which he’s labelled Connected By Water™.

Coin Design Credits

• 2023 American Innovation $1 Coin Program – Louisiana reverse
• 2022 American Innovation $1 Coin Program – Rhode Island reverse