“Remember that guy who used to paint at Rio?” Many do. If you walked through Rio in Gaithersburg between 2000 and 2016, you likely saw George Petridis working on one of his beautiful paintings, with many of his other works on display in the atrium just outside the movie theater. For more than 15 years, Petridis showcased his art and continually crafted new pieces, often interacting with those who stopped to appreciate his work amid the bustle of the Rio crowd.
Despite his strong ties to the area, Petridis did not call Montgomery County, MD home. Born and raised in Athens, Greece, he initially pursued a career in cardiology before a chance encounter changed his path. Petridis fell in love with the daughter of a prominent artist in Belgium, who introduced him to painting. He discovered a passion for art that led him to participate in a Paris show, ultimately deciding to make art his career. He then joined his brother in Toronto, Canada, later spending time back in Greece before settling in Slippery Rock, PA with his wife, Melanie.
Melanie has chronicled George’s journey in a book titled
Destiny of an Artist
, available on Amazon. George Petridis became ill in January 2016 and passed away on July 4th of that year. His legacy lives on through his paintings and the fond memories of those who had the pleasure of seeing him at Rio.
This story was originally published in 2020 and below we’re including some of the social media comments remembering Mr. Petridis:
• I talked to him many times when I used to work around Rio. I have his book and a few of his paintings as well! He was truly a unique guy and had a great talent for art (and also sculptures). Each of his pieces told a story that connected back to his life. The large renovations at the movie theater only happened after his death, which shows how much influence and popularity he had in his small space.
• I’m so happy to see this article as I remember seeing him all the time and my family has one of his paintings.
• He found love in a person which led to finding his love for painting. How romantic! Rest In Peace 💕
• Bought a painting from him. A very nice man. Was wondering what happened to him. Thank you for sharing the story. RIP
• I bought two of his paintings and my sister bought two as well. Often think about him and wondered where he was. Thank you for sharing his story.
• I remember him well. Such a kind man. I remember just standing in awe watching him paint. He even let daughter do a few paint strokes on one of his paintings. So inspiring.
• He took time out to teach my daughter how to paint a couple of times and helped bred a love of painting in her. Thank you George
• We used to see him all the time when we’d visit Rio, and many times I would also see him at the Rio Sport and Health Club. I remember when he stopped showing up…and one of the security guards told me he passed away. It was quite a shock.
• I used to work security there during that time and he was a very nice man had a ton of [stories]
