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COMO Journey: From Sea to Self

With artist-in-residence, Gregory Burns

With artist-in-residence, Gregory Burns

COMO Cocoa Island welcomes acclaimed artist and Paralympian Gregory Burns for a three-week artist-in-residence programme from December 8th to 27th 2025.

Known for his vibrant works and remarkable life journey, Burns brings his passion for creativity, storytelling and the ocean to our island sanctuary.

Gregory Burns

About Your Host

Gregory Burns is an award-winning abstract painter and Paralympic athlete who channels the same passion into his art as he did while setting four world records in swimming across three Paralympic Games. In 1984, he studied Chinese brush painting and calligraphy in Taiwan and China, later spending 16 months backpacking through Asia, painting at sacred sites. With a Masters in fine art and over 30 years of experience across 60 countries, Burns has held 80 exhibitions worldwide. His work reflects a deep connection to diverse cultures, portraying the resilience of the human spirit. In recognition of his impact, he was named 2016 Sports Artist of the Year and, in 2022, was appointed to the International Olympic Committee's Culture and Olympic Heritage Commission.