Chocolate Galor in Times Square

Chocolate Times Square Reflections
Oil on canvas
12x12 inches

A few years ago when cousins were visiting New York, we ended up in the Times Square area more than once. The reflections of the Hershey's Chocolate World store caught my eye and I snapped a photograph. We did stop in and my cousins bought some treats. I thought my photo might make for an interesting painting one day and it finally has.

Growing up there was always a lot of chocolate goodies in my home as my mom had a real sweet tooth. When I visited my grandma in Brooklyn on Saturdays, she always had a box of Hershey's chocolate bars stored in her credenza for me. In high school, I often picked up a box of chocolate covered cherries on my way home. I was a chocolate lover as so many are but I also suffered from migraines. As an adult I learned that chocolate is one of the main triggers for migraines, so sadly, I said good-bye to the sweet stuff and haven't had a bite in years. The headaches subsided as well.

But, chocolate lovers abound and the Hershey's store in Times Square is always crowded and doing a booming business.

My Macy's

Macy's
Oil on canvas
36x48

I was relieved to hear on the radio this morning that a strike at Macy's flagship store on 34th Street and Herald Square had been averted. This is my go to destination whenever I need to shop for clothing and has been for years. Often I go as a "hunter gatherer" as my friend Lois would say, but sometimes with friends for some "retail therapy." It is fun and looking for bargains and using coupons never fails to get me some nice new duds.

This painting is an early one, painted back in 1979. It is the way the main floor looked back then. Soft lighting, crystal chandeliers, floral bouquets, and crowds of shoppers. The crowds haven't disappeared but the main floor went through an extensive renovation not to long ago and is now gleaming, shiny white surfaces with high-end retailers commanding the space. I always head upstairs to the more affordable merchandise and I have to admit that I miss the old look and feel of the store. Glad that some of the original wooden escalators are still in service, a reminder of an older time.

I love this painting and it has been hanging in my home since it was completed. It has never been exhibited, maybe one day it will.

Central Park's Bethesda Fountain (study)

Bethesda Fountain (study)
Oil on panel
6x6 inches
SOLD

This new small painting is a scene in Central Park, where it seems everyone who visits the park gathers at one time or another. An oasis in the heart of bustling Manhattan, the park is indeed one of New York's crown jewels.

On another note, a terrific exhibition of contemporary printmakers is now on view at The Old Print Shop on Lexington Avenue and 30th Street. Lot's of New York City scenes are included. Here is a link to the online exhibit.

One last note, last week-end I attended the Alumni Art Exhibit at Adelphi University, my alma mater. Four of my paintings were selected and were installed nicely in the new performing arts building. I hadn't returned since I graduated many moons ago and there were numerous changes to the campus. Two friends joined me and it was an interesting day spent revisiting old haunts and memories.