Most people know Guy Harvey for his marine wildlife art — the distinctive paintings that appear in galleries, on clothing, and even on cruise ships around the world. However, beyond his artwork is a career rooted in science, research, and conservation. That story took center stage this year when the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival honored Harvey at its 40th annual closing-night film gala, with the premiere of the new documentary, “Guy Harvey,” on the IMAX screen. The film explores how Harvey transformed his passion for the ocean into a global movement for education and conservation. Directed and produced by Nick Nanton, a 24-time Emmy Award winner, the documentary follows Harvey’s life from his early days in Jamaica to his studies in Scotland and his return to the Caribbean and Florida. Filmed in the Cayman Islands, California, and Florida, it features stunning underwater cinematography and interviews with Harvey’s family, colleagues, and fellow conservationists. “I’ve grown up with Guy Harvey — the brand — being a part of everyday life. Literally every day I see someone wearing one of his signature shirts,” Nanton said. “What I became enamored with was Dr. Guy Harvey, the artist, and his love for the ocean and incredible dedication to conservation through his research. Guy Harvey bridges worlds — he’s as much a scientist as he is an artist, and his work has changed how millions of people see the ocean. This film celebrates not just his achievements, but the movement he’s inspired to preserve our planet’s most vital resource.” While art might have been his first love and garnered him recognition, science shaped his influence. He earned a doctorate in fisheries management and fish biology — knowledge that informs his scientifically accurate art and conservation efforts. The film also spotlights the work of the Guy Harvey Foundation, which collaborates with local, national, and international organizations to conduct scientific research, support researchers, and develop educational programs. A longstanding partnership with the Oceanographic Center at Nova Southeastern University resulted in the creation of the Guy Harvey Research Institute. The film also featured appearances by fellow artist and conservationist Robert Wyland, wildlife sculptor Kent Ullberg, photographer Jim Abernethy, and Harvey’s children, Alex and Jessica Harvey, who both work with him and shared their thoughts on his legacy. “I applaud Nick Nanton and his team for artfully capturing and highlighting four decades of exploration, research, fishing, diving, education, and conservation into such a powerful film about what has become, and still is, an unforgettable journey,” Dr. Harvey said.