SJF New York Art

Mystery solved...almost

2012-02-04T08:39:00.000-08:00

"Abstract Reflections"
Oil on canvas
24 x 24 inches

The mystery of where this subject was taken has been bothering me as I usually can identify the buildings and sites I paint. So, I went back into my iPhoto files - and I had a lot of photos to look through - but methinks the mystery is almost solved. I took the photo that this painting is based on in December of 2009 and believe it is a building on Fifth Avenue, not far from Bergdorf Goodman. My suspicion is that it might be a reflection of St. Patrick's Cathedral, but maybe not. The only thing to do now is to head back to midtown and look around. As I've been immersed in reading the Sherlock Holmes and Mary Russell series of books by author Laurie R. King for the last few months, I'm in full-blown detective mode. Hopefully the answer to the location of this painting will soon be found.

Abstraction in the city

2012-01-30T08:39:00.001-08:00

"Abstract Reflections"
Oil on canvas
24 x 24 inches

Just finished this painting that for some reason took a long time to complete. Sometimes paintings just flow, sometimes it's just work to see them through to the end. The results are usually fine, it's just getting there sometimes. But once I start a painting, I'm determined to finish it. I honestly do not know where this photo used for this painting was taken. I liked the abstraction of the building reflection and this is indeed more abstract than usual, hence the title. Glad to have this one behind me, now on to the others that have patiently waited to have their turn on the easel.

The Woolworth Building

2012-01-23T12:51:00.000-08:00

"Woolworth Fragment #1"
Oil on canvas
6 x 8 inches
Sold

"Woolworth Fragment #2"
Oil on canvas
6 x 8 inches
Sold

"Woolworth Fragment #3"
Oil on canvas
6 x 8 inches
Sold

I was going through some older slides today and came across these three paintings of the Woolworth Building. Several years ago, an artist friend suggested I try painting sections of a building. I thought it an interesting idea and decided to use the Woolworth Building as an experiment. These three paintings were done from a photo that I took and then divided into 3 sections. I still want to tackle a big painting of this wonderful building and I've taken many photographs over the years. All of the detailing on the facade is a tad intimidating which is why I've yet to do a painting. But, one day...

Paramount Reflections Revisited

2012-01-03T08:32:00.001-08:00

"Paramount Reflections II"
Oil on canvas
24 x 24 inches

Fresh on the easel, a painting of the Paramount Building on 43rd Street and 7th Avenue. This particular building had millions of viewers focused on it during the New Year's Eve festivities, as it is located smack dab in the Times Square area, the "heart of the world." Having done a small study of this subject several months ago and having sold it in an eBay auction, I decided to work the idea up into a larger painting.

Starting off the New Year with several paintings blocked in and ready to go. These have been tough economic times for artists and I'm curious to see if things start to turn around this year. I'll keep on painting with hopes that the year 2012 will be a good one.

Best Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season and New Year

2011-12-21T10:14:00.001-08:00

The paints on my palette and I hope to create some beautiful new work in 2012.

For all of the followers of this blog, best wishes for a peaceful, healthy and happy holiday season. May the new year be a good one for us all.

What does "EP" stand for?

2011-12-12T07:35:00.000-08:00

"Vesey I"
Oil on canvas
24 x 30 inches

That was the question I had since doing two paintings of the facade of 20 Vesey Street. I posted the question to Tom, writer of the daily blog, A Daytonian in Manhattan. He went into Sherlock Holmes mode and discovered a fascinating history behind the facade of this beautiful, Art Nouveau inspired architectural gem. For all of you architectural historians out there, click on this link to read all about it.

"Vesey II"
Oil on canvas
30 x 24 inches

And the initals EP on the iron work stand for the Evening Post, mystery solved. Thanks Tom for all of the research and an answer to my question.

The LIC Courthouse Studies

2011-12-06T09:46:00.000-08:00

The Long Island City Courthouse is a Beaux Arts beauty in Long Island City, NY. Several years ago, I decided to take one building and really explore it from different angles. I painted a series of 5 small studies, oil on canvas panel, 5x5 inches each. I then went on to create 5 larger paintings, 10x10 inches each, oil on canvas.

This week I am offering 4 of the small studies for sale on eBay. If you would like to bid, just click on the links below.

Long Island City Portrait
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320808264359#ht_500wt_1355

Long Island City Tree
http://www.ebay.com/itm/320808260887?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649#ht_500wt_1355

Long Island City Roof
http://www.ebay.com/itm/320808258907?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649#ht_500wt_1355

Long Island City Flag
http://www.ebay.com/itm/320808262492?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649#ht_500wt_1355

Rooms with a view

2011-11-28T08:14:00.000-08:00

"Studio View"
Oil on canvas
8x10 inches

In June I saw an exhibit of 19th century paintings, "Rooms With A View", depicting the scenes from artists studio windows. Some of the paintings not only included the outside view, but an interior view as well. That got me to thinking about my studio view, which I've been looking at for many years now, noting the changes through paintings. Last winter, when I glanced out of the window, I was taken with the huge plumes of steam coming from the stacks of "Big Allis", the plant that supplies steam heat to many New York households. My friend's husband works there, and when I noticed the plumes of steam I knew that he was hard at work.

Luckily, my studio view has not changed too much, in spite of the development rampant in LIC over the past ten years. I still have open sky and good light to work by. Sometimes the simple subjects are the most rewarding. Such was the case with this painting.

Artist Beware!

2011-11-22T07:36:00.001-08:00

"Ansonia Detail"
Oil on canvas
30x24 inches
Sold

Today's post is a public service announcement of sorts. I chose this painting of a gargoyle head on the Ansonia glaring down at passersby to warn artists and others about art scammers. Many artists, myself included, have received email inquiries about our work with an offer to purchase. The writers often want to pay with a cashiers check, are usually in the process of moving overseas, want to handle shipping/pickup, and on and on. The grammar used in the emails is often suspect as well. I received yet another one this week that sounded legit but wasn't. These folks are getting better and better at what they do, so just be very careful if you receive an inquiry. There are several sites that you can check out, with lists of names that have been used, sample letters/emails that have been received, and tips on how to protect yourself and your artwork. Just google "art scams". We artists work too hard to be taken for a ride.

Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving holiday. I for one am very thankful for many things, especially for the fact that I am able to come to my studio and paint, paint, paint!

An architectural detail

2011-11-14T11:42:00.000-08:00

"A Downtown Detail"
Oil on canvas
14 x 11 inches

Here is a recently completed painting. One day, while walking downtown, I happened to look up and this architectural detail caught my eye. The graceful curves and offset by the columns made for an interesting composition. It just goes to prove that there is beauty all around us, even in the most mundane of settings. The trick is to stop and take notice.

A reception, an award

2011-11-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

The American Artists Professional League Exhibition

Yesterday I attended the reception for the American Artists Professional League's 83rd Grand National Exhibition at the venerable Salmagundi Club on Fifth Avenue. With over 200 works of realistic art in the exhibit, there was a lot to take in. What I especially like about this organization is that they award two scholarships to young artists, who were present. Always slightly surprised to realize I am no longer an "emerging" artist.

I find when I view a show like this one, I can go around the room once, twice, even three times, and still miss something. There were some really fine pieces to be seen, and it is always an honor to have a painting accepted. And, very nice to win an award, which my painting, Flatiron Bird's Eye View did accomplish. Surprisingly, the award was not the usual cash prize but two boxes of acrylic paints, even though my work was listed under oil paintings. I will find a worthy artist to take them off my hands, someone who will hopefully make good use of them.

Two gems on 19th Street

2011-10-27T08:36:00.001-07:00

"Irving Place Gargoyles"
Oil on canvas panel
6x6 inches

Thought I'd offer these two small paintings on eBay today. They are small studies of the Gramercy Park area. The apartment building on the corner of Irving Place and 19th Street is dotted with marvelous figures and gargoyles, fanciful and charming.

"19th Street Carriage House"
Oil on canvas panel
6x6 inches

The carriage house is a beautiful little building, very unique from it's neighbors and located on the rightly called "Block Beautiful." I remember when this building underwent its restoration and I just love it.

If you would like to bid on "19th Street Carriage House" click this link.

If you would like to bid on "Irving Place Gargoyles" click this link.

These paintings have been sold.

Reflections of Empire

2011-10-19T09:53:00.001-07:00

"Empire Reflections II" (study)
Oil on canvas panel
6 x 6 inches

This new painting is a study for a larger planned piece. Once again, the iconic Empire State Building is my subject of choice in this uncommon view. The top of the the building is reflected and abstracted on the facade of a nearby glass-faced building. I so enjoy coming upon these reflections, yet another way to look at the city.

Right now I'm busy blocking in a number of new paintings that will keep me busy for a few months to come. Several of the new paintings will be reflections, and this will be one of them.

I am offering this painting in an eBay auction. If you would like to bid, click this link.

This painting has been sold.

Court Square Diner

2011-10-13T09:08:00.000-07:00

A neighborhood haunt of long standing

"Court Square Diner"
Oil on canvas
8 x 10 inchs

Thought I'd share a new painting of the interior of the Court Square Diner in Long island City. I've been painting diner and restaurant exteriors for years and have recently begun painting a few interiors as well. I have spent a lot of time eating in diners, first as a child growing up in New York with a working mother who rarely cooked a meal, and then as a busy artist with few culinary skills. The atmosphere of diners, the bustle, the shiny surfaces, the huge selection on the oversized menus, the clatter or dishes - music to my ears. Sliding into a booth to share a meal with friends is one of life's great pleasures.

Zig Zagging up Broadway

2011-10-11T07:55:00.001-07:00

"Zig Zag Broadway"
Oil on canvas panel
6 x 6 inches

This small study of a stretch on Broadway was part of a body of work I created of the Gramcery/ Flatiron districts of New York. The building on the left was an early location of Lord & Taylor and there is a lot of architectural history to be found in this location.

I'm offering this painting in an eBay auction. If you would like to bid on this piece, click on this link.

This painting has been SOLD.

A reflection in Long Island City

2011-10-04T08:16:00.001-07:00

"Court Square Reflections"
Oil on canvas panel
6 x 6 inches

Today's painting depicts a reflection in the window of the Court Square Diner in Long Island City. A young man is heading to the #7 train, at the first elevated stop in Queens. I've walked on this street thousands of times but one day the light was shining on the window of the diner and I was taken with the colors and composition. I came back with my camera and took several photos. This is a small study for a larger and more involved painting that I am planning. Still painting the LIC neighborhood as I always seem to find inspiration here.

I am offering this painting on an eBay auction. If you would like to bid, please click this link.

This painting has been sold.

The Players Club

2011-09-26T10:45:00.001-07:00

Fabled haunt on Gramercy Park

"The Players Club"
Oil on canvas panel
6 x 6 inches

A haunt of folks in the arts, the Players Club has a long and illustrious history. Nesteld on 20th Street facing Gramercy Park, it's rooms have seen the likes of well-known figures in the world of theater, art, literature and more. In need of some repair, its faded glory still sits proudly in this historic neighborhood of New York.

This sis the third small painting being offered in an eBay auction. To bid please click this link.

The Paramount of Times Square

2011-09-20T07:53:00.001-07:00

"Paramount Reflections II" (study)
Oil on canvas panel
6 x 6 inches

Here is the second in the group of small paintings that I will be offering on eBay. This painting is of the Paramount Building on 43rd Street and 7th Avenue in the Times Square area. The rooftop clock and globe are a well-known sight. This building has a rich history and the theater hosted many well-known acts over the years. I've painted this building in the past and decided a return visit was in order.

Reflections of buildings in other buildings is an ongoing subject of choice and I'm very happy with this small study. Planning on doing a larger painting in the future.

If you would like to bid on this painting, click here.

This painting has been SOLD.

The Metropolitan Museum

2011-09-14T13:02:00.000-07:00

A favorite NYC haunt

"Saturday Met"
Oil on canvas panel
6 x 6 inches

I have been working on a number of small-scale paintings over the past few months and will be offering a some of them on eBay auctions in the coming weeks.Curious to see what results, if any, occur and I hope you'll take a look.

Today's painting is a small study of the interior of one of my favorite places, the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I was looking down on the main lobby which was alive with people and color. This small study might become a larger painting at some point.

If you would like to bid on this painting, click this link.

10th Anniversary of 9/11

2011-09-04T08:05:00.001-07:00

One week and fast approaching...

"Union Square Memorial #1"
Oil on canvas
24 x 36 inches

With the tenth anniversary of 9/11 fast approaching, the work of artists who created work will be on view in many venues, big and small. Here are just a few with links for more information.

My 3 memorial paintings of 9/11 will be on view in a comprehensive exhibition hosted by the University of Pennsylvania at Berks in Reading, PA. The Freyberger Gallery, the Yocoum Institute of Arts Education and the Jewish Federation of Reading will each have one of these artworks. The 40 artists selected work in a variety of mediums and the exhibition is sure to evoke many memories and feelings about that fateful event. Here is a link for some more info.

9/11 Memorial Block for "Embodied Light: 9-11 in 2011" at the Educational Alliance, Sept. 9 - Nov. 23, 2011.

Another exhibition of interest created by my studio mate and friend Tobi Kahn is Embodied Light: 9-11 in 2011 at the Educational Alliance in downtown Manhattan, not far from Ground Zero. Tobi has created a sculptural installation of memorial lamps, shrines, a floor installation and charity boxes. In addition he handed out 220 blocks to people that he knew - artists, writers, friends and others - and asked them to share their memories of 9/11. These 220 blocks, a block for each of the 110 floors in the two buildings, create a powerful statement. I watched as they arrived at the studio and was fascinated by their variety and feeling. When I was given my block I knew I wanted to honor the memory of artist Andy Jurinko, who passed away this year. His loft on Cedar Street was in the closest residential building to the Twin Towers and pieces of the planes landed in his home. He and his wife Pat escaped and spent months reclaiming their home, dressed in hazmat suits and exposed to lord knows what. The blocks will be moved around and stacked, constantly changing by those who view them. A book accompanies the exhibition and a Facebook page has been created where you can see more of the blocks at the Embodied Light page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Embodied-Light-9-11-in-2011/225177864182820

My friend and fellow artist Donna Levinstone's powerful pastel work created in the aftermath of 9/11 is featured in BORO Magazine. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Embodied-Light-9-11-in-2011/225177864182820

This upcoming week will be a week of media deluge of the events and aftermath of 9/11. Some New Yorker's are fleeing town, not wanting to be here on the anniversary. I want to be here, the city of my birth, to remember and reflect on this unforgettable event in my city's history.

Up on the roof in LIC

2011-08-23T08:19:00.001-07:00

Clouds galore

"LIC Rooftop 2011"
Oil on canvas
9 x 12 inches

Every so often I head up to the roof of the studio to check out the change in the landscape in Long Island City. When I first arrived in 1980 I had a clear view to the East River and the skyscrapers of Manhattan. With all the development in the intervening years, I now see only glimpses of that view, in between the condos and rentals that now dot the waterside. If you look closely a bit of the U.N. building is visible. Work is being done on the facade now and it's interesting to watch the progress. I loved the sky the day I took this photo and hurried up to the roof with my camera. This painting is the result.

The streets radiating away from the river still retain many of the small scale homes and commercial and manufacturing buildings the neighborhood is known for. Every so often though, in the middle of a block, a new 3 or 4 story building has sprung up. The architect Frank Lloyd Wright believed a building should fit seamlessly in with the environment surrounding it. With the exception of the Guggenheim Museum, I think he followed that credo with magnificent results. Can't say that is what is happening in Long Island City these days though.

Union Square in cooler climes

2011-08-08T07:41:00.001-07:00

Snowy thoughts on a summer's day

"Union Square Snow"
Oil on linen
14 x 11 inches

It is a hot, sultry and steamy summer's day in the baked apple so I thought I'd share this "cool" painting with you. It is a new one, recently off the easel. I was looking north from 14th Street. The iconic towers of the Met Life building and Empire State building can be seen in the distance, along with the charming 17th Street Barnes & Noble building. The dark tower on 23rd Street is new construction that has run into some trouble and is sitting vacant, its future uncertain in these uncertain times.

In the foreground is Union Square Park, decked out in inches of snowfall. Lot's of folks out enjoying the winter wonderland. I have to admit, I'd much prefer being bundled up and traipsing through a snowy park today instead of swealtering in the summer's heat and humidity. But, winter will come soon enough and then I know I'll be wishing for warmer days.

Stay cool, wherever you are.

The art of the self-portrait

2011-08-01T07:53:00.001-07:00

Self-Portrait
Oil on canvas
6x6 inches
2011
I've been working on small-scaled paintings this summer that are very detailed. Having finished one recently, I couldn't just jump into the next one so I took a break and headed over to one of New York's greatest treasures, the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Spending an afternoon strolling through the galleries, I revisited some of my favorite paintings. One artist's work I wanted to see more than anything was Rembrandt's self-portraits. I don't know what it is, but his work takes my breath away. There is such soul in his work, aside from his mastery of paint, brush and light. When I got back to the studio the next day, I set up a small panel and mirror on my easel and once again attempted a self-portrait.

I have used myself as a subject, as many artists have, with varying degrees of success. This painting was the result and I think I did manage to capture a likeness. I admire those who paint portraits and although I attempt them every now and again, I am by no means a portrait painter. After finishing this piece I thought it would be interesting to pull out some older self-portraits, just to see how they have changed over the years.

Self-Portrait
Oil on canvas
2006
I think this is my favorite of the self-portraits I've done. Being fascinated with reflections I captured my reflection in a window display on Madison Avenue. I like the abstraction, yet this is me, artist with camera.

Self-Portrait
Oil on canvas
1980's
Traveling back to the 1980's, this self-portrait is done in the style of my Art Student League days. I studied with several instructors over the years, and David Leffel's class was the last one I attended. He was a student of Frank Mason, and the approach was classical, the light hitting the side of the face. Now you can see why I admire Rembrandt? He WAS the master of chiaroscuro painting, that capturing of light and dark and creating the feel of three dimensions with paint.

Self-Portrait
Oil on canvas
Early 1970's
This last painting was done in the early 1970's while in college. An early attempt at self-portrait. I've come a long way since then. I know I have digressed from this blog's main subject, so now back to painting portraits of New York!

Storytime - recap of the show at Gallery 705

2011-07-25T08:46:00.001-07:00

Back from the Poconos. Gallery 705 is a terrific space in which to exhibit and Ed Evans installed the work on the various walls wonderfully well. It was pretty hot up in the mountains as well as everywhere else which might account for the small reception turnout, but those who did brave the heat and come by were an interesting assortment of people.

One woman has traveled the world and had tales to tell. Another woman described herself as an "art groupie" and was friends with such artists as Robert Motherwell, Mark Rothko, Phillip Guston and others. Visitors shared their memories of New York with me, and as that is my subject matter I loved hearing their recollections. The most interesting question I was asked was by a young man who shyly came forward and asked if my paintings were always so "optimistic." I had to stop and think about that one for a minute and had to agree that they did exude a feeling of optimism. Perhaps it is because of my use of color? My subject matter? The composition? Or perhaps it was just the overall feel of the paintings. One woman said they just made her happy. I liked that young man's observation very much.

When viewing one of the restaurant paintings, one woman asked "but did I paint Pete's Tavern?" Well I surely did and brought her over to see the painting which brought back a lot of memories for her.

Thanks again to Connie and Ed Evans for hosting the reception and exhibiting my work in their gallery. A blurb and photo appeared in the Weekend section of the Pocono Record. Here's the link.

"New York Reflections" opens July 23rd

2011-07-18T06:56:00.000-07:00

Heading to the mountains

"Gramercy Park Snow"
Oil on canvas
10 x 8 inches

Today is a steamy summer day and my paintings are being picked up and heading for Gallery 705 in the Poconos later this afternoon. This painting of a Gramercy Park townhouse stoop on 20th Street in the snow might be an image to help cool things down. I've chosen a variety of work for this show - reflection paintings, LIC paintings, Gramercy Park paintings and assorted others. It's nice to have the opportunity to "curate" this exhibit.

"A Guy, A Beer, A Juke"
Oil on canvas
12 x 9 inches

I thought it would be interesting to include some older paintings and this one, in particular, brings back a whiff of old New York. This gent was sitting in a bar on Mulberry Street, sipping a beer and listening to the songs on the jukebox in this pressed-tin hangout in what is left of Little Italy. An image reminiscent of an older time, although I know that there still exist many of these types of neighborhood hangouts all around town. You just have to keep your eyes open.

If you find yourself in the Poconos, stop in to meet Ed and Connie Evans and see the show. The reception is Saturday, July 23rd from 4-7 pm and I will be there along with some family and friends. Hopefully things will be a bit cooler in the mountains than they are in the city.

For information on Gallery 705, here is a link.

A Summer Solo Show

2011-07-07T12:51:00.000-07:00

Art in the mountains of Pennsylvania

"Puck Building" study
Oil on canvas
10 x 8 inches

Last summer some of my paintings left steamy NYC for the lovely island of Martha's Vineyard for an exhibition. This summer 30 of my small to mid-sized paintings will be heading to the Pocono mountains in Pennsylvania. I've been invited to exibit at Gallery 705, an intimate and inviting gallery in Stroudsburg. When choosing the work for the show I decided the space lent itself well to my smaller-scaled paintings so I selected a nice range of work from recent pieces to several older ones. This study of the Puck Building on the corner of Lafayette and Houston Streets is in the show of streetscapes, architectural details and reflection paintings.

"Madison Reflections II"
Oil on canvas
12 x 9 inches

For more information about the gallery, here is a link

I plan to spend the summer trying to keep my cool and to keep on painting.

The Butler Institute of American Art

2011-06-29T08:25:00.000-07:00

75th National Midyear Exhibition 2011

"Scheffel Hall"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

My painting of Scheffel Hall, a wonderful building on 17th Street and Third Avenue in Manhattan is currently on view in this annual exhibition in Youngstown, OH. Curated by artist Gary T. Erbe, the show runs from June 26 - August 28. A museum dedicated to American art, it is always an honor to be accepted into the annual exhibit.

This building has been a favorite of architecture buffs (and me) for quite awhile and I finally did a painting. A google search will lead you to the history of this site. It was designated a NYC landmark, thankfully, and stands out from all the rest.

If you're strolling in the neighborhood one day, look up and and enjoy the view.

Up on the Roof on Fifth

2011-06-21T06:58:00.001-07:00

"Fifth Avenue Rooftop"
Oil on canvas
8 x 10 inches

I always love the opportunity to find some great rooftop views whenever the chance arises. During an Open House New York week-end a few years ago, I found myself up on the roof of an architect's office on Fifth Avenue somewhere in the '20's. The city looks so different high up off the street and so many things can be seen that are otherwise invisible. This new painting is the result of an afternoon spent exploring on high.

Here is a view contrasting the old with the new - an ongoing theme in my work. The ornate dome in the foreground and the classical frieze on a near-by building stand against the backdrop of new, glassy and somewhat bland office and condo towers. Throw in a few water towers, a factory and some brickwork and there you have it, my kind of New York scene.

The Original West Village

2011-06-18T11:40:00.001-07:00

Book-signing event

"Exploring the Original West Village"
by Alfred Pommer and
Eleanor Winters
Published by The History Press, Charleston, SC
Cover image, "Abingdon Square" oil painting by Leendert van der Pool

Last fall, during the "Triple Play" exhibit of which I was a part, New York City Licensed Tour Guide Alfred Pommer, www.nycwalk.com, spent several hours on a Saturday afternoon conducting a "walking tour" of sorts in the gallery, using the paintings and prints to highlight his talk. He has been exploring the city and leading walking tours focusing on history and architecture for over 20 years. Now Alfred is a published author as well. Collaborating with the artist Eleanor Winters, www.eleanorwinters.com, a delightful new book has just arrived hot off the presses, focusing on the West Village. I have begun reading my copy and it's been a wonderful journey through a neighborhood I'd passed through many times, but am now learning so much about. Lots of interesting facts about the buildings and the people who have lived there can be found within the pages, along with photographs and maps. For those of you interested in NYC history and architecture, this will be a terrific addition to your reading list.

The book will be available on Amazon and at Barnes and Noble and several upcoming events are being planned around town.

The first of these events takes place this Thursday, June 23rd from 6-9 pm, where there will be a book-signing by the authors at the Franklin 54 Gallery, 526 West 26th Street, #403, in Chelsea.

"The White Restaurant"
Oil on canvas
18 x 24 inches

Artwork by several artists will adorn the walls of the gallery for the event, including my painting of the Cowgirl Hall of Fame restaurant on Hudson Street. For more info, contact the gallery at 917-821-0753.

The passing of two of my favorite artists

2011-06-13T12:17:00.000-07:00

Paying my respects

I received a phone call this morning informing me that my friend and fellow artist, Louis Kunsch, had passed away. Lou was the first artist that I met when I found my studio in Long Island City in May of 1980. I had come by to check out the space on a Saturday morning and Lou had the first of five studios making up the space and was the only one working on the week-end. He showed me around and we chatted awhile. I met the other artists later that week and was given the ok to rent the studio I had seen (and I believe that Lou gave me a thumbs up which led to the other's approval).

As I had to pass through Lou's space to get to my own I was always intrigued to see what he was working on. Here was an eclectic artist, always exploring many different forms and media. I loved his very classical still life paintings of fruits and vegetables (I own two paintings) along with his large oils of fantastic imagery. Lou often used found objects creating sculptures, did some printmaking and in his later years explored ink and watercolor collage abstract pieces.

IW 1035
Ink and Watercolor on paper
©Louis Kunsch

Eventually, Lou moved to another, much larger studio space in LIC, and we continued to keep in touch over the years. As a long-time employee at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Lou worked in a number of departments over the years. On Mondays, when the museum is closed, employees can invite guests in to see the exhibits and I was very happy to be invited by Lou to see some of the big blockbuster shows when there weren't hundreds of people standing between me and the artwork. A rare treat indeed. He was also one of the early artists with a studio space, in a bathroom, in P.S. 1 in the 1970's. He lived a long and varied life as an artist and worked as long as he was able. Although he did have several exhibitions over the years, Lou did not receive the attention he richly deserved for his work and now that he is gone, it is uncertain what will happen to the studio full of artwork that remains.

Another artist passed away on June 4th, one who was widely acclaimed in his lifetime. The New York Times ran an article on Sunday that the artist Claudio Bravo had died. An AMAZING artist whose hyperrealism left me in awe. I made it a point to see his exhibitions at the Marlborough Gallery whenever his work was on view in New York. If you are not familiar with his work, definitely check it out. A masterful and powerful painter.

Two artists, passing away in their '70's, one renowned, one obscure. Claudio Bravo's work will live on as it should, for future generations to admire and enjoy. What will happen to Lou's art is anyone's guess.

Afternoon at the Gramercy Diner

2011-06-07T08:04:00.000-07:00

"Afternoon at the Gramercy Diner"
Oil on canvas
8 x 10 inches

An ongoing project that I am working on with several other artists is capturing interiors and exteriors of diners and restaurants that we've eaten in over the years. Eventually, we will gather our work together and find a place to have an exhibit. So, in the spirit of the project, I have painted an interior as a change of pace from my usual exterior views. The Gramercy Diner, located on 17th Street and 3rd Avenue in Manhattan is your usual place, with a huge menu featuring everything and then some. I found myself here with two friends one mid-afternoon last winter. It had just snowed heavily and we decided to meet up and explore the neighborhood with our cameras. But first, of course, we had to be those "ladies who lunch." It was mid-afternoon and the place wasn't too busy, with a lone customer sitting at the counter. The ceiling of this diner is painted to evoke the sky and there are all kinds of lights and reflections bouncing off the various surfaces.

Since one cannot walk a block in many neighborhoods of Manhattan without encountering one eatery or another this theme will lend itself to countless ideas for paintings to come. And hopefully a few good meals too.

The Court Square Diner all shiny and bright

2011-05-31T08:14:00.001-07:00

"Court Square Diner Reflections"
Oil on canvas
6 x 6 inches

A long-established Long Island City spot, the Court Square Diner, went through a big renovation a few years back, keeping up with all of the development and face-lifting the old neighborhood is undergoing. My eye caught the reflections of some of the older buildings on 45th Road bouncing off the shiny windows, surrounded by chrome accents. This is a recent small painting. I've been working on a smaller scale for the past few months for a variety of reasons, but this is one painting I'm thinking of working up into a larger piece at some point. Not all reflections become abstract but they do become reversed which I find fascinating. The interior of the diner is all shiny and new too, and I'm thinking of painting an interior scene of this place in the future. Now that the summer season has unofficially kicked off, and the natural light in the studio keeps me painting later, I'm hoping to turn out some good work in the next few months.

Kids Art Rocks! And So Does Bob Dylan-Happy 70th Birthday

2011-05-24T07:38:00.000-07:00

"LIC/P.S. 78 Wall"
Oil on canvas
6 x 6 inches

I have been invited several times by Erica, the art teacher at P.S. 78, to speak to her art class about what it is like to be a working artist, and having a studio in Long Island City. I've enjoyed my visits immensely, as the kids were really interested and had lots of good questions. They even asked me to autograph their sketch pads.

This past weekend I had the pleasure of attending Erica and Mike's wedding. When I first received the invite, I decided to do this painting as a wedding gift. This wall blocks some of the construction that is currently taking place along the waterfront and is the work of kids in Erica's art classes. The skyscrapers of the east side of Manhattan loom across the river on this tranquil and pleasant area. The wedding was a blast.

On another note, I can't let the day go by without saying "Happy Birthday Bob Dylan!" I remember the day when I first heard his music. I was a kid visiting my friend when her mom came home carrying his first album. "Girls, you HAVE to listen to this!" She put the record on the turntable and a nasal voice twanged out. EEWWWW, was my first response on hearing Dylan's singing. That soon changed though, and I've been an avid listener and fan for oh so many years now. His music has always been on my turntable, on my cassette player, on my radio and on my cd's and many of the paintings you have seen posted on this blog were painted while listening to his songs. I have WAY too many favorites to list here, but one of the opening lines I really like is "...she's got everything she needs, she's an artist, she don't look back...".

My Open Studio

2011-05-16T05:45:00.000-07:00

LIC Arts Open May 14-22

Photo of a corner of my studio

The LIC Arts Open is well underway. I attended several events on Saturday and Sunday. Of special interest: Photographs by noted photographer Tony Vaccaro of Jackson Pollock, Lee Krasner and others (loved the b&w of a young Leonard Cohen) on view at Matted on Vernon Blvd. Stopped in to Krypton Neon LLC on 47th Avenue to see Kenny Greenberg and the neon signs and objects he restores and creates. This upcoming Sunday, Kenny will be doing demonstrations throughout the day. Also enjoyed the exhibit W&G: Heads and Grids by husband and wife team William Garrett and Beth Williams at Ten10Studios. That exhibit was a short one and will be replaced by a new photography exhibit in time for the Open Studios week-end, May 21 and 22. Also popped in to the real estate office of Modern Spaces on Vernon Blvd. to see the photo exhibit on view there.

Of course, the highlight of the week-end was attending the opening reception for the group exhibition "Made In Long Island City" where I am represented by 5 of my LIC-themed paintings. Friends and collectors stopped by and I had the opportunity to meet a number of folks who enjoyed my take on the neighborhood. Capped the evening off with a nice dinner at Manducati's restaurant, one of the older established eatery's in LIC.

Next week-end is the big one, with over 250 artists opening their studios to the public. After some thought, I've decided to open my studio on Sunday, May 22nd from 12-4pm as well. For more information on the LIC Arts Open and the open studios here is a link

"Made in Long Island City" Group Exhibition Opening Sunday, May 15, 2-7 pm

2011-05-10T07:39:00.001-07:00

LIC artists strut their stuff

I will be one of 13 artists participating in this group exhibition at the Jeffrey Leder Gallery in Long Island City. The art on the walls will be far-ranging, chosen to display the diversity of the artistic community working in this neighborhood. I delivered several of my LIC-themed paintings last week and a bunch of them will be on view. I'm looking forward to seeing the other artists represented in this exhibit, paintings, drawings, sculpture, mosiac, the whole shebang.

It is a busy time in the nabe as the LIC Arts Open will be taking place from May 14th-May 22nd. If you'd like to find out more of what is being planned check out this link. Lots of art, with an open studios event the week-end of May 21-22. Two of my artist friends, Elinore Schnurr and Donna Levinstone will be participating and their work is wonderful, so if you do decide visit some artist studios, definitely put them on your list. I'm considering opening my studio for a few hours on Sunday, May 22nd. If you would like to stop by, just send me an email and I'll give you more info on the when, where and how to get there.

The East Village

2011-05-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

Another changing neighborhood

"13th Street"
Oil on canvas
48 x 36 inches
Sold

This rainy morning found me heading over to Utrecht to pick up some art supplies. I headed south on 2nd Avenue and turned up 13th Street. I passed by a building that I had been commissioned to paint back in the rock 'n roll '80's by a collector who was in real estate and owned this apartment building. As I passed by I noticed that the site is still very much as it was back then, the only difference being that several new stores occupy the commercial spaces on the street level. With so many changes in the city over the years, I'm glad to see some buildings standing just as they were when I painted them.

"2nd Avenue"
Oil on canvas
24 x 30 inches
Sold

2nd Avenue in the East Village has gone through many changes over the years. So many great places, lot's of mom and pop stores to be found. The 2nd Avenue Deli, Love Saves the Day and Kiev, a restaurant profiled in Jeremiah's Vanishing New York blog, were personal favorites and I miss them. Here is a painting I did in the early '80's. A little nostalgia on a rainy Wednesday in May.

Professional Artist Magazine, May 2011

2011-04-19T10:45:00.000-07:00

"Alwyn Court"
Oil on canvas
30 x 36 inches

The May issue of Professional Artist magazine contains an article "Alternative Spaces in Manhattan," pp. 22-25, by Renée Phillips. Among the venues discussed is the Durst Corporation's lobby spaces. I had an exhibit in one of their buildings several years ago and it was a wonderful experience.

"59th Street Bridge Reflections"
Oil on canvas
36 x 30 inches
Sold

The article mentions my show as well reproductions of two of the paintings that appeared in the exhibit. I was delighted to receive a call from an artist friend telling me she had gotten the magazine and lo and behold, there were my paintings. Nice publicity and I'll be curious to see if anyone gets in touch with me as a result of the article. You never know.

Battle-Axe Gleason Lived Here

2011-04-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

Historic block boasts politico's former home

"LIC/Dan's House"
Oil on canvas
14 x 11 inches
Sold

Several months ago Dan, a new collector of some of my Long Island City-themed paintings, commissioned me to do a painting of his home on 45th Avenue, the area's historic block. While discussing the commission, Dan mentioned that his home had once been owned by a former mayor of Long Island City, Patrick Gleason. I did a little google search and found that this Irish immigrant had come to America, fought in the Civil War (today being the 150th anniversary of the outbreak of the war), made a fortune and got involved in politics. He was LIC's mayor before incorporation into the City of Greater New York in 1898. From some accounts, Gleason was a politician in the Boss Tweed style and was not well-liked by many. However, he was considered a friend to the common man and is the person responsible for P.S. 1, his legacy to the community's children. P.S. 1 continues on today, refurbished and home to a thriving contemporary art scene, a branch of MoMA.

It is always so interesting to learn about the history of a building. Not only did I enjoy working on the wrought-iron and brick facade, I imagined the meetings and deal-making that might have taken place inside back in the late 1800's. Dan picked up the painting last week and was very pleased with the finished commission. The block boasts many wonderful buildings and I just might do another painting or two someday.

LIC Twilight View

2011-04-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

"LIC/21st Street Twilight"
Oil on canvas
12 x 9 inches

For the past few months I have been working on several small scale paintings and catching up with ideas that I've had for awhile and wanted to experiment with. After completing a commission of a Long Island City night scene last Fall, I decided this was a subject that I could really delve into. I had blocked in this painting 2 years ago and set it aside and decided now would be the time to tackle it. The painting went smoothly and quickly and it was a joy to work on this one. This is a view at the crossroads of 21st Street and Jackson Avenue. P.S. 1 and the Big Allis smokestacks are visible, along with the factories in the area. The sky cast a grayish/purple hue and the lights had just started to twinkle at that hour of the early evening. I plan to continue exploring this subject and hope to share a few more of these night scenes.

On another note, I just finished reading Steve Martin's "An Object of Beauty", his glimpse into the art world and its players - the dealers, the artists, the collectors. Pretty interesting read and would recommend this book.

Triangle 100th Anniversary

2011-03-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

March commemorating the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire

Today is the anniversary of one of the most tragic events in New York City's history.

People gathered at Union Square Park this morning, many of them family members, holding aloft 146 shirtwaists with a name attached.

Among the many events planned to mark this day, was a march down Broadway, starting at Union Square Park and ending at the corner of Greene Street and Washington Place.

I went to see the exhibit "Art • Memory • Place" at the Grey Art Gallery this week. The exhibit was fascinating and is located in the very same building where the factory had been located 100 years ago.

The Asch Building, now called the Brown Building and part of NYU, was the site of the fire. Many of the workers were young women, Jewish and Italian immigrants.

The event spurred outrage about workplace safety.

Many changes were enacted as a result of this tragedy, but 100 years later, unions then and now are still at odds over many issues.

Today's blog post does not share my paintings of the city but photos I took this morning remembering the Triangle Fire event. As the history of the city is so entwined with my art, I wanted to share this remembrance with you today.

SMSU Exhibit

2011-03-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

Final weeks

Thought I'd share some installation photos of my exhibit at Southwest Minnesota State University Art Museum in Marshall, MN. I haven't traveled out to Minnesota to see the show but all accounts I've received are that they are happy with the exhibit.

The local paper, the Marshall Independent wrote an article on the show as well. Here's the link

I have been busy finishing up a commissioned painting for a collector and have been working on several new paintings. Happy first day of SPRING! It's been a long, hard winter and I'm looking forward to spending more hours in the studio now that daylight savings has kicked in.

Selling New York...art

2011-03-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

Art on the small screen

"G.E."
Oil on canvas
30 x 24 inches

Last Fall I had an exhibit of my paintings in Warburg's Tribeca real estate office. They have an ongoing program of showcasing artists works. My friend Leslie who works at that location made the introduction and that is how that opportunity came about. I also found out that the HDTV program, "Selling New York" was featuring a broker from that office on the second season.

Long story short, a film crew was at the opening reception in September, busily filming away and the recent episode, "Big City Dreams" had a clip from the reception. The storyline of the episode featured a musician and an artist looking at real estate, hence the tie-in with the art reception at Warburg. The clip is a short one, and several of my paintings can be seen. The surprising thing is that I've received several emails and calls from friends asking if those were my paintings on television. It reminded me of the time I was watching an episode of "Law & Order" one evening, when an elevator door opened and there was my friend Denis with a newspaper in hand. After seeing my paintings on the small screen I have a better understanding of how my friends who do background work on film and tv must feel when they catch a fleeting image of themselves onscreen.

The episodes are repeated, so if you want to get a peek at some outrageously expensive New York real estate, here's your chance. You might even catch a fleeting glimpse of an original "Florin" too!

Photo of realtor Deborah Lupard, Warburg's chief, the artist looking to relocate and my painting "G.E." featured on the episode "Big City Dreams" on HDTV's "Selling New York." Note: Photographs on the left are not mine.

Remembering Andy Jurinko 1938-2011

2011-02-28T08:29:00.000-08:00

A great guy, a fine artist
"Liberty Plaza"
Oil on canvas
66 x 84 inches
©Andy Jurinko

Last week I did a mailing about my Minnesota exhibit and received the sad and unexpected news that the artist, Andy Jurinko, had passed away on Valentine's day from pancreatic cancer. The email message stopped me in my tracks and as often happens when I hear this type of news, the memories started flooding in. I first met Andy in the 1980's when we were both new members of the NOHO Gallery, then located on LaGuardia Place in the Village. We were assigned a two person show and on a very cold day in January, 1982, we installed our paintings in the gallery. There was no heat as a pipe had burst the night before, so we were bundled up in our overcoats as we worked. At that time Andy was showing a series of figurative street scenes, a subject he would revisit time and time again throughout his career. He was very adept at painting the figure, especially the female form.

Over the years, we would keep in touch now and then, especially after receiving each other's exhibition announcements. I followed Andy's work over the years and marveled at his talent and his vision.

"Bobby Thomson 1951"
Oil on canvas
32 x 40 inches
©Andy Jurinko

An ongoing project, and one that he will be most remembered for was his series of baseball-themed art. Deciding to use the "golden age" of baseball as his muse, he did over 1,000 paintings of the stadiums, portraits of the team players and scenes of historic and memorable moments in the game. Books, exhibitions, prints and much-deserved acclaim came his way as a result.

Andy and the love of his life, his wife Pat, were early "homesteaders," living in a loft in the the Wall Street area when it was not a trendy residential neighborhood. On September 11, 2001, the great tragedy that struck New York would impact them directly as their building was the closest residential building to the towers. I remember trying to get information about them after the collapse of the twin towers and saw posters asking about them on the many walls plastered with questions. Thankfully, they and the tenants in their building survived. Andy and his wife decided to remain and spent months and months dealing with the aftermath. The New York Times ran a series of articles about their building and the tenants. Many of their neighbors were in attendance at the memorial service on Saturday, as were a throng of family, friends, fellow artists and collectors. The chapel was standing room only, a testament to how loved and respected a person Andy was. He will be missed.

If you would like to learn more about Andy Jurinko's work you can check out his website

Read the New York Times obituary here

Midtown in the Midwest

2011-02-17T07:37:00.000-08:00

"Reflections of the City"

"Vesey II
Oil on canvas
30 x 24 inches

A solo exhibition of 18 paintings will be on view from February 19 - March 31, 2011 at Southwest Minnesota State University Art Museum in Marshall, MN.

Being a New Yorker I sometimes lose sight of the fact that there are thousands and thousands of towns and cities that I've never visited or even heard of. That was true of Marshall, MN until a few years ago when my cousin married a lovely gentleman from that very town. Then add to the mix an artist/curator that I met through the Franklin 54 Gallery where I've exhibited who lived in and taught for many years in non-other than Marshall, MN. Coincidence? Not sure why but the stars aligned and I was offered the opportunity to exhibit my work there. I happily accepted.

Fine Feathers in the Garment District

2011-02-08T11:06:00.000-08:00

Peacocks on parade

"Peacock Freight"
Oil on canvas
11 x 14 inches

A new painting to share today. Not too long ago, my friend Sandy and I were walking around taking photos in the mid-30's, in what used to known as the garment district. Looking up we noticed these beautiful peacocks perched nonchalantly above a nondescript freight entrance, where once upon a time racks of clothing would be whisked in and out, on their way to stores around the country.

The garment district has changed dramatically over the years with much of the clothing once produced on those crowded busy blocks now produced overseas. Yet, many beautiful architectural details still remain on the building facades in this part of town, and coming upon one, such as these beautiful peacocks, is a rare treat.

Cityscapes in American Art Collector February 2011

2011-01-29T08:07:00.000-08:00

A magazine article amidst snow, snow, snow

Photo of a snowy Union Square Park

Life has been hectic and with all of the snow we've been having, my regular routine has been sidetracked several times this month. We just had another 19 inches of the white stuff this week. Not one to let a good photo opportunity pass by, I met two artist friends for lunch and with cameras in hand, we surveyed the neighborhood in search of some new painting ideas. I know I have a few paintings in the batch I took and wanted to share this one of Union Square Park. More snow is headed our way mid-week, so I am in the studio today playing catch-up.

The February issue of American Art Collector is now on newsstands and includes an interesting article on cityscapes, "Constructed Spaces," with my painting "Empire Reflections" featured on page 98.

Right now I'm surrounded by packing boxes as I am getting ready to ship out work for a solo exhibition in the great state of Minnesota. "Reflections of the City" will be on view at Southwest Minnesota State University Art Museum in Marshall, MN from February 19 through March 31. More to come on the show soon. If any of you readers live in the area, try to stop by!

Courthouses Here and There

2011-01-11T08:05:00.000-08:00

Beaux Arts Beauties

"Downtown Courthouse Reflections"
Oil on canvas
10 x 10 inches

Starting off the New Year with a new painting. Last fall, I wandered around the city with my friend Sandy, visiting a bunch of sites open to the public for the Open House New York week-end. Having done a lot of walking we took a much-needed break and sat ourselves down on a bench downtown. I noticed some interesting reflections of the courthouses on Centre Street reflected on a glass facade and since I'd already taken a load of photos that day I figured why not a few more? This painting is the result. I really enjoy the way each panel tells its own little story.

"LIC/Courthouse Fountain"
Oil on canvas
10 x 10 inches
Sold

Courthouses seem to be the theme this month as I just learned that my painting, "LIC/Courthouse Fountain" had been sold on the last day of the Small Works exhibit I participated in at the Jeffrey Leder Gallery in Long Island City. Another painting sold at the opening reception so the book-ended sales were nice news indeed.

Happy New Year from NYC

2010-12-31T08:35:00.001-08:00

Out with the old, in with the new?

"Pinwheel 1"
Oil on canvas
30 x 40 inches
Sold

This old woman was in her window, looking down at the goings-on in the street below, in this case 9th Avenue. I really enjoy the 9th Avenue Food Festival, and for many years I would see this same woman, in her window, with this brightly colored pinwheel stuck in her flower box. As the years passed, the bright colors on the pinwheel faded and finally it disappeared altogether.

The same can be said for the NYC urban landscape. Scenes like this one are harder to find and for me, it captured the New York of my childhood days. People hanging out on stoops, window ledges or copings. If you don't know what copings are, they were low brick walls surrounding the apartment houses where I and my friends grew up and played. Residents would come out and sit on these copings, chatting with neighbors while they watched their kids play in the street, games such as skelly, "You're It", and hopscotch. In the summer they'd wait for the Good Humor truck or Steve the ice-cream man drive up the block, ringing his bell for the kids who came running, quarters in hand, for that Italian ice or popsicle. This painting brings back those kinds of memories for me and for many others who have grown up here.

This is the time of year that I take a few moments to look back and remember, the year just passed and the years gone by. I also look forward to the year to come and think about the paintings I want to paint and what I hope to accomplish as an artist. I've been plugging away as a painter for many years now and I still love what I do. And I love my hometown. It is not an easy place in which to live. It's become more and more expensive to live here. So many changes, some good, some not so good. But this is where I want to be and I'll keep painting what I see around me for as long as I can.

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year and sending you a big thank-you for following my blog. See you in 2011!

Happy Holiday Wishes

2010-12-21T08:43:00.001-08:00

Ho, Ho, Ho

Photograph taken on December 11, 2010 near Union Square

It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words and I think this photo would agree. Snapped this photo of these merry Santa's on their way to their next destination in a Santa Pub Crawl that took place on a cold and cloudy Saturday in December in NYC. They were all over the city, in the subways, on the streets and of course, in many of the bars and pubs. I don't think this photo will become a painting any time soon, but wanted to share it with you and send wishes for a happy and peaceful holiday season!

The Iconic Empire

2010-12-15T13:18:00.001-08:00

Reflections on the ESB

"Empire Reflections"
Oil on canvas
14 x11 inches

A few months ago I exited the subway on 18th Street and Seventh Avenue and looked southward. It was a sunny day, late in the afternoon, and reflected on the facade of a newly erected glass building, was the Empire State Building. Wow, that image got my attention. I often noticed reflections of this building all around town and it was high time to do a reflection painting. Truly a beloved symbol of New York City, one I've painted more than once. I noted the time of day and a few days later headed back to the same site with my camera. Took a bunch of photos and this painting is the result. There are a lot of details in this smaller scaled painting and I loved the color variations that the multi-colored glass facade created. It just seems I can't turn around without finding something that inspires me to paint in this city. And that's a good thing.

An Artful Sunday afternoon in LIC

2010-12-08T08:45:00.000-08:00

White walls and small paintings

Photograph of small works at the Jeffrey Leder Gallery

Spent a pleasant Sunday afternoon attending the opening reception at the Jeffrey Leder Gallery in Long Island City. This new gallery space is large, light and nicely laid out. In the main gallery and entrance, my friend Donna Levinstone exhibited her spectacular pastel cloudscapes. She achieves a real mood with her work and her handling of the medium is top-notch. In another gallery a small works salon show was on view. I enjoyed meeting several of the artists participating and talking about art. The reception was held as an open house type of event, running from 2 - 7 pm. Friends stopped by and we left at 5pm to have dinner at a nice Italian restaurant in the neighborhood.

The next day I received a call from the gallery telling me that my painting "LIC-P.S. 1" had sold to a local resident and collector who had stopped by after I had left. Nice news indeed, considering the current state of the economy and the effect it's had on everyone, artists certainly included. The gallery sold several pieces at the opening and that was heartening to hear. They are off to a good start and are a welcome addition to the Long Island City community.

"LIC-P.S. 1"
Oil on canvas
10 x 10 inches
Sold

Long Island City at dusk

2010-11-29T08:30:00.000-08:00

A rooftop view

"LIC Rooftop Night"
Oil on canvas
14 x 11 inches
Sold

A recently completed painting to share with you today. With all the show biz stuff happening the past few months I have been able to find time to do some painting after all. This piece was a commission for a young couple living in the neighborhood. They had seen an exhibit of my work several years ago and contacted me about a painting that had been in the show. As it had been sold we talked about doing another painting with a similar subject and I took a number of photos to show them. After some more back and forth, they decided what they really wanted was a painting of the view from their rooftop, where they spend many pleasant evenings, weather permitting. This is the painting that resulted and I'm very pleased with the result. I have been itching to paint more night scenes as there is a definite atmosphere and mood that develops with many dark colors punctuated with punches of light.

In this scene, the industrial aspect is of the "old" LIC neighborhood is portrayed with the factory building in the foreground. The eye is then drawn towards the waterfront with the newer developments that have cropped up in the past decade. Finally, the eye is drawn to the Manhattan skyline with the ever iconic Empire State Building lit up in the early evening light.

Small Works show at Jeffrey Leder Gallery in LIC

2010-11-24T07:59:00.000-08:00

One show closes, another one soon to open

"LIC/Jackson Crossroads"
Oil on canvas
10 x 10 inches

Today, on the last day of the exhibition, "Triple Play...", I delivered a bunch of paintings to the Jeffrey Leder Gallery, a new addition to the Long Island City art scene. My friend Donna Levinstone, a wonderful pastel artist, will be having a one-woman exhibition of her pastel landscapes, the second show in this new gallery. If you would like to see samples of her work, check out her website.

Donna very kindly told the gallery director about my work and I was delighted when he made a studio visit and selected 16 small scale paintings to be included in the Small Works Salon exhibit accompanying Donna's show. 10 artists works will be exhibited, with a variety of styles and mediums on view.

The opening reception is on Sunday, December 5th, from 2 - 7 pm. The Jeffrey Leder Gallery is located at 1105 44th Road, 3rd Floor, Long Island City, NY 11101. For more information and directions contact: jeffreyledergallery.com

The show runs from December 5, 2010 through January 9, 2011. Hours are Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday,11-6.

A Walking Tour of "Triple Play..."

2010-11-09T11:52:00.000-08:00

Who knew?

"Flatiron II"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

Last Saturday we enjoyed an "in-gallery walking tour" of the Gramercy Park and Flatiron districts led by Alfred Pommer, long-time NYC walking tour guide. Lot's of interesting facts were uncovered in the course of the talk. In this painting, the obelisk is the Worth Memorial, named after General Worth of the War of 1812 fame. He is buried there and the city of Ft. Worth is named after him. The wrought iron fence surrounding the monument was made of swords. Who knew?

"NAC Gramercy"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

The stately National Arts Club was built on a double lot owned by Governor Samuel Tilden, who actually won a presidential election by popular vote but lost the election due to fewer votes in the electoral college. Who knew? He was also fearful of uprisings after prosecuting members of Boss Tweed's Tammany Hall machine and had a tunnel built under the mansion leading out to the street a block away, just in case a fast getaway was necessary. Who knew?

"Flatiron-Bird's Eye View"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

The fabulous Flatiron building...rumor has it that a group of Italian investors now own the building and in several years time offices might be converted to condominium residences. True or false? Time will tell. Recently finished reading a marvelous book on the history of the Flatiron and the real estate climate of New York in the early 1900's. I highly recommend Alice Sparberg Alexiou's The Flatiron, The New York Landmark and the Incomparable City That Arose With It. A terrific read!

"Triple Play" exhibit online

2010-11-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

American Art Collector Magazine has featured the exhibition on their website as of November 1st. So if you are an out-of-towner or cannot make it to the gallery in person, you can still see the exhibit. Looking at art online is definitely not the same as seeing the real thing of course, but it is still an opportunity to see the show.

"Triple Play: Flatiron/Gramercy from 3 Angles" can now be viewed online at http://www.galleryshowsonline.com/show/franklinangles1110

American Art Collector features "Triple Play" in November issue

2010-10-26T11:58:00.000-07:00

The opening reception on the evening of October 21st was a real scene. The gallery was packed, the noise level was high and there was a lot of excitement in the air. People kept streaming in, well after the 8pm closing time. I learned that in Chelsea where so many galleries are now located, Thursday evenings are when many people come out to do the "Chelsea Walk", going from gallery to gallery to gallery to gallery...

We have gotten some nice publicity on the show thus far. A write-up on the exhibit is featured in the November issue of American Art Collector Magazine, pps. 206-207.

Town & Village, a weekly newspaper serving the Stuyvesant Town, Peter Cooper Village, Waterside, Gramercy Park, Union Square, East Midtown Plaza and the Kips Bay areas of Manhattan ran a cover story, "3 artists see new sides to the city". Off to a good start and it's been nice to talk with people about the work on view.

Another opening, another show

2010-10-20T09:26:00.001-07:00

Opening reception Thursday, October 21, 6-8 pm

3 images from the exhibit. From left to right: Florin's "Flatiron-Bird's Eye View", Trueblood's "City Towers" and Pyzow's "Scheffel Night". Just an example of 3 of the 42 paintings and prints on view in this collaborative exhibit.

"Triple Play: Flatiron/Gramercy from 3 Angles" On View

2010-10-19T11:12:00.000-07:00

The show is up and running!

Stopped by the gallery today to check out the show and it looks wonderful, better than I could have hoped for. The paintings and prints are grouped in such a way as to complement the work of three artists and makes for a fascinating "tour" through the Gramercy Park and Flatiron neighborhoods. Here's the press release. Hope to see some of you at the reception on Thursday, October 21st. Now to decide what to wear...

TRIPLE PLAY: FLATIRON/GRAMERCY FROM 3 ANGLES

SHARON FLORIN
SUSAN PYZOW
EMILY TRUEBLOOD

October 19th – November 24th, 2010
Reception: October 21st, 6-8p
Special Event: November 6th @ 2p: an in gallery walking tour of the exhibition by NYC tour guide Alfred Pommer

Franklin 54 Gallery is pleased to present a collaborative exhibition project by 3 New York City artists: Sharon Florin, Susan Pyzow and Emily Trueblood of paintings and prints that depict two New York City landmark areas- the Gramercy and Flatiron districts.

Sharon Florin has been painting and capturing NYC architecture for many years and they are expertly executed with a realist’s eye yet full of personality. They are detailed, rich and inviting – she captures the heart and feeling of each piece of architecture bringing the intimacy of it to life. Sharon’s respect and love for the architecture and NYC come alive in her paintings so we as the viewer can step in and enjoy so many aspects of the city.

Susan Pyzow’s paintings are strong and a bit eerie though quiet and still - components that make them intriguing along with her use of lush color and heightened contrasts. She draws us as viewers into the “light in the window” that is a beacon. The pieces are real but painterly and we are welcomed into her suspense hoping she will let us inside and reveal the secret. Susan will also have prints in the exhibition along side her paintings.

Emily Trueblood’s linoleum cut prints are clean, sharp and architectural. The imagery in these pieces whether shadow, shapes or angles are simple and striking. Her limited palette accentuates these handsome pieces and repeated use of the window variations keeps the eye moving in and out, up and down. Masterfully composed, they invite us to a fresh interpretation of these NYC buildings.

Each artist has her own technique and vision yet together they portray the richness of these neighborhoods. All three are award winning artists with works in numerous private, corporate and museum collections. Printmakers Susan Pyzow and Emily Trueblood also exhibit with The Old Print Shop in Manhattan. Sharon Florin has exhibited with Franklin 54 since it began in 2004.

One more week until showtime!

2010-10-12T09:08:00.001-07:00

The countdown begins

Cover for catalogue for "Triple Play: Flatiron/Gramercy from 3 Angles"

The cover of our catalogue features my painting of the Flatiron, a painting by Susan Pyzow of Scheffel Hall at night and a linocut of Emily Trueblood's wonderful water towers. I think we chose these images because they are our personal favorites.

After a lot of painting, printmaking and planning our exhibit will open next Tuesday, October 19th with an opening reception on the 21st. Speaking for myself, Susan and Emily, I can say that we are all excited to have our work on view at long last at the Franklin 54 Gallery. During the past year we met several times at my studio to work on a catalogue for the exhibit. With the wonders of technology - a Mac, iPhoto and 3 talented artists, the end result is something we are pleased with and the art really stands out on the pages. Catalogues will be for sale at the gallery.

Last week we three distributed our brochures to places in the neighborhoods whose subjects appear in our works. Everyone we met was extremely enthusiastic when learning about this collaborative effort. Doing the legwork is part of the business of show and we are doing our best.

Packing up my paintings and delivering them to the gallery later today. The die is cast, let the show begin!

Whimsical Irving Place

2010-10-05T12:14:00.001-07:00

Bricks and gargoyles galore

"Irving Place"
Oil on panel
6 x 6 inches

Thought I'd share this painting with you today that will not make it into the upcoming "Triple Play: Flatiron/Gramercy from 3 Angles" exhibit. There is just not enough room in the gallery for all of the work we'd hoped to exhibit. My original thought was to create a series of small paintings on panels of these two neighborhoods. Might still go forward with this idea as I have plenty of ideas for paintings. As it is, only 2 of the small 6x6 inch paintings will be on view.

There is a fascinating multi-colored brick building on the northwest corner of 19th Street and Irving Place that I pass by regularly and I'm always enchanted by the many gargoyle-like stone figures adorning the facade of this apartment house. This painting features two small bearded and robed gents, standing with noses in the air, embedded into the brickwork. Just why they adorn this building I don't know, but they are certainly whimsical.

Two weeks until showtime and I'm excited that this project will finally be installed and on view. Our catalogues look great and we've been doing our utmost to get the word out about the exhibit. If you're in the neighborhood, hope you can stop by! Opening reception is on Thursday, October 21, 6-8pm at the Franklin 54 + Projects Gallery, 526 West 26th Street, Rm. 403, Chelsea, NY. To read about the backstory of this project and to see some of the artwork featured in the exhibit just click here.

Opening Reception for "Florin at Warburg" Thursday

2010-09-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Memories and art

"Winter Sunlight"
Oil on canvas
26 x 36 inches

Thursday, September 30th, is the opening reception for the exhibit at Warburg. It was an interesting experience picking out work for this particular show in that it is not in a traditional gallery space. I looked through the racks in the studio and when I saw this painting I knew I wanted to include it. Many of my paintings evoke a memory for me, and often for others who love this city and have either grown up here or have been transplanted and subsequently smitten.

I created this painting back in the 1980's and remember the day I took the photograph that was the inspiration for it. When my parents were alive, they used to enjoy spending a Sunday afternoon on the Lower East Side. We'd eat lunch at Ratner's or Katz's and then stroll and shop in the stores along Orchard Street and the surrounding streets. We were walking around one late afternoon in the winter (we would go in all seasons) and my eye caught this window of a tenement with the winter sunlight catching some of the faded architectural details. As one's sense of smell can often evoke a long-ago moment or memory, so too can a painting. This one brought back a happy memory of a day spent with family in the city I love best.

2 Upcoming Exhibits in Tribeca and Chelsea

2010-09-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

I'm dancing as fast as I can

"The White Restaurant"
Oil on canvas
18 x 24 inches

Getting ready for two shows simultaneously is a challenge, but so far things are moving along. I paid another visit to the Tribeca office of Warburg Realty on Monday and delivered 3 more paintings as there were still some walls that needed work. One of the paintings I selected to exhibit is "The White Restaurant", a painting of the Cowgirl Hall of Fame restaurant also on Hudson Street just up the road apiece in the West Village, north of the Warburg office. This exhibit has been fun in that I've been able to put together an eclectic mix of work from different times in my painting career, unlike the upcoming "Triple Play" exhibit in October/November where I will be showing all new work created specifically around the theme of the Flatiron and Gramercy Park districts.

The shelves in my studio will have plenty of gaps as the work from this summer's PikNik exhibit on Martha's Vineyard is still out of the studio as well. Some paintings have sold, some will be returned, but for now I'm enjoying the space on the shelves and wouldn't be at all unhappy if a lot of the paintings found new homes and I could use the shelf space for new work. An artist can dream...

To read an article appearing in CityBiz List online about the Warburg exhibit click here.

Florin + Warburg Realty

2010-09-09T13:14:00.000-07:00

Art and Real Estate

Card for exhibit with images of paintings "The Cable Building" and "G.E."

It has been a busy time as I am gearing up for two exhibits this Fall. Today I installed 18 pieces in the Tribeca office of Warburg Realty Partnership Ltd. The artwork is scattered around the space, some on large walls and others tucked away in nooks and crannies. A business involved with New York buildings seemed like a good match for my work. I picked out an interesting selection of artwork, some old, some new. I actually had a painting that had been done a number of years ago of a building located around the corner from the office which I dusted off and hung.

The New York Mercantile Exchange Building, a real beauty, sits just across the street from the office. I had painted and sold the painting I had done of that building awhile back so I made an inkjet print and hung that as well.

Inkjet print from my painting "New York Mercantile"

The exhibit will be on view through December so if you find yourself in the neighborhood, drop in and take a peek. The office is located at 100 Hudson Street, corner of Leonard.

Gordon's Novelty

2010-09-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

A Vanishing New York

"Gordon's Reflections"
Oil on canvas
12 x 9 inches
Sold

This painting, "Gordon's Reflections" was done several years ago. I caught the reflection of the novelty store in the windows of Just Bulbs, a store across the street. Both stores have "vanished" from the neighborhood. Gordon's has been boarded up and Just Bulbs left the area several years ago.

A blog I follow, "Jeremiahs' Vanishing New York", has recently written about Gordon's and the novelty businesses that have disappeared from the Flatiron district. I sometimes share my paintings with other blogger's when they write about a place that I have painted. Such was the case with "Gordon's Reflections".

One of the upsides of blogging is that I have found other like-minded individuals with interests common to my own, blogging merrily away. Being a painter of the New York urban landscape and capturing the sights before they vanish has been an enduring theme in my work. There are several others who are trying to capture and share their thoughts on a city that they once knew and Jeremiah's Vanishing New York is one.

Gramercy Park South

2010-08-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

The last painting for the upcoming October exhibit

"Gramercy Park South Snow"
Oil on canvas
10 x 8 inches

Today's painting is a new one and my last piece for the upcoming exhibit, "Triple Play: Flatiron/Gramercy from 3 Angles", at the Franklin 54 Gallery, October 19 - November 24. Another snowy scene from last winter's snowstorm. I liked the contrast of the snow against the old brownstone steps and wrought iron railings.

I had hoped to paint several more small paintings for the show, but as the gallery is only so large we have limited our works to 14 artworks from each artist, 42 artworks in total. That will make for a nice selection of work. Our brochure has arrived from the printer and looks fabulous! Will be gearing up to do a mailing soon.

The business of art takes as much time as the making of art these days. I would much rather spend my time in front of the easel painting my little heart out, but I've learned over the years that artists really need to be proactive in "getting the work out there," not an easy task but a necessary one. Here's hoping all the hard work will yield results.

2010-08-20T07:58:00.000-07:00

"Urban Event" exhibit at PikNik

Spent several days traveling with friends to New Bedford, Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard in Massachussetts with a quick visit to Newport, Rhode Island on the way home. The reason for the trip was to attend the opening of the exhibit on Martha's Vineyard where several of my paintings were on view. The gallery is an eclectic space with a big yard area and a shop out front, with the gallery in a separate building in back. My work was hung on a mirrored wall - this is not your typical white box space, as well as outdoors for the opening. The reflections upon reflections made for an interesting display. Many good artists in the show and I enjoyed seeing their take on the urban landscape. The Martha's Vineyard Times ran an article on the exhibit which you can read here.

It was wonderful to spend time with old friends and to visit cousin's who live on the Vineyard. As this was my first trip there, I found myself captivated by many of the areas we saw, but I most enjoyed wandering around and looking at the doll-like houses of the Tabernacle area. These small, candy-colored cottages are decorated to the nines in Victorian gingerbread, each outdoing its neighbor. Took a bunch of photos and might do a painting or two, as they were just charming.

Photo on Martha's Vineyard

Checked out a number of galleries as well as shopped (my friends are intrepid shoppers), had some fine meals, and enjoyed the ferry ride to and from the Vineyard. On the drive home we made a stop at Newport, RI and visited Rosecliff, designed by Standford White, one of the fabulous mansions dotting the coast. This is one town I have to go back to visit as seeing the architecture of the gilded age is totally my thing. All in all, we crammed a lot into a 4-day trip and to top it all off, the weather was absolutely gorgeous, couldn't have asked for better.

A little NYC in Martha's Vineyard

2010-08-11T13:59:00.001-07:00

An "urban" vacation

"LICConstruction II"
Oil on canvas
10 x 10 inches

The trucker came today and picked up the paintings that will be exhibited in the group show "Urban Event" at the PikNik Gallery on Martha's Vineyard. As people go to places like the Vineyard to escape the cities, it's interesting that a show of the urban environment will be following them on their vacations.

"Remembering the Bottom Line"
Oil on canvas
24 x 30 inches
Sold

Ten of my paintings were selected by the gallery director - street fairs, water towers, reflections, LIC, landmark buildings - all subjects covered in these paintings. I'm curious to see how my work fares away from the confines of the city. Surf's up!

For more information about the show and the gallery click here.

Broadway's original Lord & Taylor

2010-08-06T09:13:00.000-07:00

An elegant store for the ladies who shopped

"Zig Zag Broadway"
Oil on panel
6 x 6 inches

An intimate painting of Broadway around 20th Street. This Flatiron district has some wonderful buildings on Broadway as well as the side streets radiating off the main drag. Lot's of architectural details to be found. The original Lord & Taylor's department store is the building pictured on the left-hand side of this painting, which will be in the upcoming fall exhibit at the Franklin 54 Gallery in Chelsea. Artist Susan Pyzow will be exhibiting a painting and etching featuring this building and Emily Trueblood will have a linoleum cut on view. As you can see, we three artists have been drawn to many of the same sites and showing our work together will make for an intriguing exhibit. Our catalogue is almost complete and will be sent off to print in early September. Meeting in my studio several times over the summer to work on the layout and then capping it off with lunch at a local LIC diner has become something of a "tradition," one that I hope we can continue in some fashion after our show is up and running. Also, thanks to my friend Sandy, designer extraordinare, we now have a beautiful brochure designed and in production. Exciting times and working with other artists on this collaboration has been a wonderful experience.

Pete's Tavern on Irving Place

2010-07-27T08:51:00.000-07:00

O'Henry wrote and ate here

"Pete's Tavern"
Oil on canvas
24 x 24 inches

Another new painting in the hopper for the upcoming Fall exhibit in Chelsea at the Franklin 54 Gallery. Pete's Tavern is located on Irving Place, a street running from 14th to 20th Streets. A cozy haunt in Gramercy Park, Pete's has a nice, old-timey wooden bar with the restaurant located in the back rooms. Black wooden booths, tiles on the floor and numerous photos on the walls create a nice ambiance. The noted writer O'Henry lived in the area and frequented this restaurant often, sitting in a booth and and working on his stories. As I walk by Pete's Tavern fairly often, I wanted to try to capture it on canvas. It's been around a long time and I can't imagine the corner of 18th Street without it.

Meeting with the other two artists in the show this week and our catalogue project is almost complete. I'm very happy that we were able to capture this collaborative effort in print and I know we have a very interesting exhibit on our hands. As an added plus, Alfred Pommer, a popular New York City tour guide, will be conducting a "walking tour" in the gallery as a special event. He'll talk about the places depicted in the artworks hanging on the gallery walls and it will be a great introduction to these neighborhoods, should folks want to then hit the streets and see the actual places on their own. I'll post more details about this event soon.

Metropolitan Life Reflections

2010-07-16T09:06:00.001-07:00

A stately sentinel on 23rd Street

"Metropolitan Life Reflections"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

I've been missing working on a new reflection painting when I came upon this view of the Met Life building several weeks ago. Took a few photos and settled on this view. Just love the undulating forms and limited palette used in this painting. I've painted this building several times over the years and never get tired of this subject and as I'd never done a reflection painting, it was high time that one came off the easel. Another in the series I've been working on for the upcoming Gramcery/Flatiron show in the fall. Still have to come up with a good title though, and would welcome any ideas for a really catchy show title. I'm sharing this painting with you today because of the cool colors, blues, whites and grays. The current heat wave is getting to me and everyone else here in NYC so I hope this painting might be a refreshing change of pace.

Off to buy a new Mac computer tomorrow as mine is 6 years old and starting to falter. It's worked hard over the years and served me well, but it's time for an upgrade. My friend Sandy was visiting the studio yesterday and when she saw my monitor she told me the colors on a new screen will look much sharper and more saturated. Hadn't even thought of that. It will be interesting to see how my paintings look once I'm up and running with a fresh new system.

Keep cool everyone!

19th Street Carriage House

2010-07-06T08:21:00.000-07:00

We're having a heat wave...

"19th Street Carriage House Study"
Oil on panel
6 x 6 inches

Smack dab in the middle of a heat wave I thought I'd share this snowy scene with you. I LOVE THIS HOUSE! A former carriage house on 19th Street in the Gramercy Park area was refurbished into one of the most charming residences in NYC, in my humble opinion. Passersby often stop to look it over, point out different details and just smile when they see this place. I know I do. I remember when the small carriage house was a boarded-up ruin, painted green and yellow and covered with graffiti. Happily that is no longer the case. Two buildings were combined, bricked in red, with white wood trimmings and wrought iron details. There are two small iron horses on the facade in homage to the building's former days as a stable. A lovely tree in front of the house is covered with pink blooms today. The photo that I worked from was taken last winter just after a snowstorm. Try to imagine a cold, blustery day filled with sunshine and snowy sidewalks. Sending cooling thoughts your way.

Union Square Park

2010-06-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

Greenery, art, produce, memorials, politics and more...

"Union Square"
Oil on canvas
24 x 24 inches

Something a little different today, a street scene. I recently completed this view of the southern end of Union Square Park, a major hub from 14th to 17th Street. A wonderful farmer's market takes place on the northern end several days a week with the southern end filled with tables and booths of crafts and the like. While I was working on this painting there was some discussion in city government circles about the possible need to limit the amount of street vendors/artists allowed to set up shop in this park as well as in other areas of the city. An ongoing debate. Union Square drew thousands of people together in protest during the Civil War and then again to memorialize and mourn just after 9/11. Back in the bad old 1970's, you were wise to steer clear of Union Square as it was a dirty and dangerous area. Today, the park and the surrounding streets are bustling all the time. I honestly believe that 14th Street between Fourth Avenue and University Place is congestion central. All those NYU students among others. But, it does make for a lively neighborhood to be sure, and I'm glad that Union Square Park has come through the dark times of former years to be a very pleasant place today.

NAWA at NAC

2010-06-15T06:52:00.000-07:00

National Association of Women Artists 121st Annual Exhibition

"Flatiron - Bird's Eye View"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

The National Association of Women Artists is holding their 121st Annual Exhibition at the National Arts Club in Gramercy Park and I received a call that my painting has won an award. Always nice to hear. The reception is on Thursday, June 17th, but I stopped in on my way home to check out the show the other day. I'm sorry to say that something went very wrong with this exhibit. Whoever installed this large show should never be allowed to wield a hammer and nails ever again. The work was hung haphazardly, some walls were chock full of paintings with little space between each work, other walls were bare or sparsely covered. No rhyme or reason for pieces hanging next to one another. A real disappointment for the artists in the show. I've been a member of this organization for many years and this is the first time this has ever happened. Artist-run organizations have their ups and downs to be sure, and a lot depends on the leadership and the volunteers involved. NAWA really dropped the ball on this one and I can only hope that things get sorted out by the time the 122nd Annual rolls around next year.

The Wrought Iron of Gramercy

2010-06-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

Turn of the century

"Gramercy Park West"
Oil on canvas
10 x 8 inches

A new painting just off the easel. Work continues on the Gramercy/Flatiron theme for the upcoming October show. Today's scene is of a close-up section of a lovely row of homes on the west side facing Gramercy Park. Nice, decorative wrought ironwork. There is a challenge in painting these architectural details. Just really enjoy the feel of this area of the city. The hectic pace slows a bit when walking the streets around the park.

As for the upcoming show, I met with the two other artists last week and we're busy working on the layout of a small catalogue of the works in the show. Nice work! Emily Trueblood's linocuts and Susan Pyzow's paintings and etchings really capture the neighborhoods. Each of we three artists has her own unique style and it's fascinating to see how we've handled this subject. It was a real treat to see everyone's work and to try to decide how best to place the images. We're meeting again in a few weeks time and I think we're going to have a fantastic exhibit when all is said and done.

Finding "other venues" to exhibit

2010-05-27T07:57:00.001-07:00

Ansonia Pharmacy Art Program Goes Kaput

"Ansonia Pharmacy"
Oil on canvas panel
4 x 5 inches
Sold

As a working artist, I am always interested in learning about places to exhibit my work. As so often happens, I find places that are outside the usual gallery environment. The Ansonia Pharmacy Windows was one such place. Located on the corner of 10th Street and Sixth Avenue in Greenwich Village, the two windows of this neighborhood pharmacy offered artists a chance to exhibit their work directly to the people passing by and especially for the people living and working in the neighborhood. It became something of an institution. Many viewers would take a moment to go inside the pharmacy and jot down a comment in the artists' guest book and often, sales were made. I was fortunate enough to exhibit in the windows and it was always a wonderful experience. Sadly, the building was sold, the rents jacked up and the pharmacy was forced to relocate. They were able to stay in the neighborhood, moving just several doors down, but the art program has been eliminated as the windows do not offer the same space as in the older location. So, once again, my New York changes, and something is lost.

Here's a link to an article about the Ansonia's move.

On another note, once again I will be exhibiting a painting in a non-traditional space. This time it is a group show through OIA, Organization of Independent Artists. "Aspects of the City" will be on view at the New York Law School, located at 185 West Broadway, from May 24-June 25. Since the subject so suited my work, I decided to participate in this exhibit.

"LIC/Short Triangle"
Oil on canvas
15 x 30 inches

Recap

2010-05-24T11:41:00.001-07:00

30th Anniversary Show and Sale

photo of one of the studio walls

Sunday's open studio event went very well indeed. A number of family, friends and collectors came by and really spent time looking, and in some cases purchasing "Florin's", which warmed this artist's heart. The trains were running on schedule, the weather cooperated and it was a fun event. I've been getting great feedback today and I'm glad I was able to pull this event together. After 30 years in the studio the show was almost a "period after a sentence." Now to do more work and continue on the tradition, here in LIC.

30 Years in LIC

2010-05-10T11:43:00.000-07:00

30th Anniversary of SJF Studio
Open Studio and Sale Event

Photo of studio circa 1980

The place where I come to paint, a sanctuary, a space to create – my studio. In honor of this very special 30th studio anniversary, I invite you to join me on SUNDAY, MAY 23, 12-5 P.M. for a special show and sale celebrating this milestone. Browse through the paintings done over the years and take advantage of a special 30% discount on a large selection of paintings. If you’ve ever wanted to own an original “Florin” or would like to add a painting to your already existing collection, now’s the time. Payment by cash, check or credit card with a PayPal account accepted.

I will also be arranging studio visits by appointment only on Thursday, May 20 and Friday, May 21 for those who cannot come on Sunday. Just send me an email and I'll set up a time and give you traveling directions.

Thought I’d share my journal entries circa 1980, 30 long years ago…

May 9, 1980
Excitement! I can’t take this. Feel ready to burst. Will check out a studio in LIC tomorrow. And, if it’s halfway decent, I’ll take it!

May 11, 1980
I think I’ve got me a studio! Checked one out in Long Island City. Good feelings. A skylight. Place to work. Artist I spoke with seemed nice. Rent reasonable. Will meet other artists during the week. Hopefully get it right away!

May 12, 1980
Met other artists at studio. Paid my two months rent and I’m in and feeling much more than elated. Many ideas. Can’t wait to begin work. Light is right. Can work there after job for a few hours. Just want to get it set up and going.

Looking forward to seeing what the next 30 years will bring!

Art in a mansion and on stage

2010-05-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

"NAC Gramercy"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

Today's painting is of the National Arts Club on 20th Street on the south side of the lovely Gramercy Park. According to the NAC Fact Sheet, the mansion was built in the 1840's, acquired by Samuel Tilden in the 1870's and was given an overhaul by the famed architect Calvert Vaux (one of the designer's of Central Park). In 1906 it became the home of The National Arts Club. The building is a designated New York and National Historic landmark and I enjoy walking past this vestige of old New York regularly. I tried to capture a part of the facade, with the beautiful terra cotta work and the reflection of the trees in the park reflected in the large front window. The facade underwent much needed restoration not too long ago. Many art organizations host their annual exhibits in what was formerly the grand ballroom as well as in the downstairs galleries. The building's interior has been used in many movie productions over the years, most notably the ballroom scene in "The Age of Innocence." It's always a treat to have one of my paintings hanging on the walls of the NAC, and I felt it only right that I do a painting of this architectural delight.

Now on to the subject of art and the theater. There are two fascinating plays on view that I highly recommend. The New York Theater Workshop, located off-Broadway on East 4th Street, features a delightful new play written by and starring the very talented Claudia Shear ("Blown Sideways Through Life", "Dirty Blonde"). The play just started previews and I was lucky enough to see it this past week-end. An art restorer working in obscurity in Brooklyn, is given the rare opportunity to work on the restoration of Michaelangelo's sculpture David. Art, life, inspiration, longing...all themes are explored in this insightful, well-crafted, and often humorous play. After the play, as I walked uptown on 2nd Avenue with my friend Debbie, we found ourselves walking behind one of the actors we had just seen in the play. That's what I love about New York. An actor can be performing onstage one moment before a live audience and then just casually walk the streets unobserved and unnoticed.

At the other end of the spectrum we go from Michaelangelo to the artist Mark Rothko, the subject of "Red", currently playing on Broadway. From the opening scene, which has the talented actor Alfred Molina who portrays Rothko sitting quietly contemplating his large red canvas, one is transported to the artist's studio, listening as he expounds on his ideas about art and life to his young studio assistant, also an aspiring artist. A great scene finds both the master and the apprentice priming a canvas onstage! If you find yourself in New York this Spring, treat yourself to a show, you won't be disappointed.

Gramercy's 19th Street

2010-04-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

The Block Beautiful

"19th Street Block Beautiful"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

Another new painting in the Gramcery - Flatiron series. Today's painting features 19th Street between 3rd Avenue and Irving Place. Known as "the Block Beautiful", there are varied and lovely brownstones, renovated carriage houses and small apartments lining the block. Looking up I often notice many north light facing windows, testament to the time this area was a hub for artists and their studios. I daydream that one day I might live in one of these apartments, but the prices being what they are, there's not much chance of that happening anytime soon. The Ashcan artist George Bellows former home is on the block and these days one can see the occasional rock musician or actor strolling by. I have several paintings planned of this block which I will be posting in the next several months. The building in the foreground of this painting, featuring the two jockey statues, currently has a "for sale" sign outside. If you'd like to live on "the Block Beautiful" it can be yours for several million dollars.

The Metropolitan Museum turns 140!

2010-04-13T12:12:00.000-07:00

A place like no other

"Sunday at the Met"
Oil on canvas
12 x 9 inches
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When I read today that the Metropolitan Museum of Art is celebrating its 140 year anniversary, I just had to dig up this old slide of a very old painting that I did way back when of the Met. People are hanging out on the front steps of the Met on a Sunday afternoon, much as they still do today. To be lucky enough to live in a city where this museum is so easily accessible is truly a blessing for any artist or art-lover. My friend Lou used to work at the museum and he invited me to see some of the big blockbuster shows on Mondays when the museum is closed to the general public. What a rare treat to see a Van Gogh exhibit up close in an uncrowded gallery and not have to stand on my tippy-toes, craning my neck just to catch a glimpse. But, there is so much to see and many of the quiet nooks and crannies allow the visitor the opportunity to just soak it all in.

Photo of Met interior

As anyone who has followed this blog knows, I'm partial to the architecture of the Beaux Arts period in architecture and the Met is a prime example. This photo is a painting idea I have in mind. I love the graceful arches and contours of this truly elegant building. As the woman who bought the painting wrote to me, the Met is part of our bones and of our hearts. Awhile back I bought a watercolor of the reception area of the Met. I saw the painting and was totally entranced. So not only is there great art inside the Met, but it has inspired artists over the years as well. The Met is truly a work of art!

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

2010-04-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

Cherry Blossoms, Roses and more...

"Botanical Path"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches
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Spring has sprung. With all of the wonderful warm weather this past week I couldn't help but notice how quickly the trees are budding and blooming. A spot of particular beauty in this busy metropolis is the the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The famous Cherry Walk will be in full bloom in late April/early May and the Cranford Rose Garden follows soon after in June. I've spent many a happy hour wandering the BBG, taking photographs and painting all types of flora, fauna and the people who visit. As much as I love painting the architecture of New York, I always try to find some time to explore other subjects as well.

"Cranford Rose Garden"
Oil on canvas
18 x 24 inches

This painting of the rose garden is one of the first paintings that I exhibited publicly. A woman came up to me at the reception and told me that as a child she lived across the street from the Gardens. She also mentioned that it hadn't changed in 40 years. I did this painting way back in 1979 and I'm sure when I go this year to visit once again, the roses will look as beautiful and lush as they have for years.

"Entwined"
Oil on canvas
10 x 8 inches
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This painting is currently hanging in the room of a friend's young daughter. Perhaps she'll be inspired one day to pick up a paintbrush too. If you have a chance, hop the subway and head out to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden this spring. Click this link to check out their website here.

The Week in Review

2010-03-26T12:27:00.001-07:00

Some interesting news...

"Brill"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches
Sold

Read that the Brill Building on Broadway was granted landmark status this week. Hurrah! Always great news to see some of the older, architecturally significant buildings saved and cherished. My city changes so quickly and so many buildings disappear that it's comforting to see some of the old favorites remain standing. The art deco facade is enchanting. And let's not forget all of the FABULOUS music that flowed out of that building over the years. A lot of talent walked those halls and pounded those piano keys and it is a true New York landmark to be sure.

Another interesting tidbit. The other day a friend sent a wonderful video of a short D.A. Pennebaker film of the long gone 3rd Avenue El train, set to music. It was filmed two years before the El was demolished in the 1950's and shares a glimpse of a New York that once was. To view, click the link

http://www.cynephile.com/2010/03/daybreak-express-d-a-pennebaker-1953/

And, to wrap it up, some art show news to share. I will be exhibiting several paintings in a Martha's Vineyard gallery in August. Spoke with the gallery owner who has chosen an interesting selection of work for a group show themed "the urban landscape." A good fit with my subject matter of choice. Happy to see some of my paintings "go traveling" this summer. More info to come.

A good week, all in all.

Final weeks for "Urbanesque"

2010-03-12T09:35:00.000-08:00

Citicorp Showcases in Long Island City

Installation of 9 LIC-themed paintings

The show in the Citicorp lobby showcases is coming into the final weeks, ending at the end of March. When deciding how to install the show I decided that each of the 4 artists would have one window each for their work and the final 2 windows would be group exhibits of one piece representing each artist. I think the idea worked well and the response to the show has been good. My 9 LIC-themed paintings were hung 3 across and 3 down, and that is the way I always envisioned them - LIC quilt.

"LIC/Meeting at Brooks"
Oil on canvas
12 x 9 inches
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Always nice to sell work and this painting will have a new home. A gentleman working in the building purchased this painting as he has eaten at Brooks for many years and the subject was meaningful to him.

Installation photo of 3 of the 6 showcases on view

Women in the Arts Foundation artists are represented in this exhibit. For more infomation about this organization, check out their newly designed website

Gramercy Tavern

2010-03-03T10:13:00.000-08:00

Fine dining on 20th Street

"Gramercy Tavern Reflections"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

Here's a new painting that I'm really happy with. The Gramercy Tavern on 20th Street is considered one of the finest restaurants in a city jammed-packed with thousands of restaurants, one of the jewels in Danny Meyer's restaurant crown. I've had the pleasure of eating here on two special occasions, not a place I can afford to frequent on a regular basis, that's for sure.

In this painting I was taken with the construction-looking type guy lounging outside this fancy eatery, having a smoke, while the diner's inside enjoyed fabulous drinks and food. A little New York juxtaposition, a subject I enjoy. Figures are often not as prominent in my paintings as in this one, but I have to say I had a great time working on this painting, trying to get the subtlety of the skin tones just right. I spent many years studying at the Art Students League of New York painting and drawing from the model but you wouldn't know that to look at most of my work. So this painting was a nice departure for me and I'm looking forward to exhibiting it in the upcoming fall show.

The Old Town Bar

2010-02-18T13:27:00.000-08:00

Travel back to 1892

"The Old Town Bar"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

Just got the dates for the upcoming fall exhibit of the Gramercy/Flatiron District show at the Franklin 54 Gallery in Chelsea. October 19 - November 24, 2010. I've been working on this project for awhile and now that a definite date has been set it's full steam ahead. Looking forward to this show because it is a collaboration with two other artists, Susan Pyzow and Emily Trueblood. We've all found inspiration in the streets and places of these two neighborhoods and will have paintings and prints on view.

Today's painting is a new one, the Old Town Bar on 18th Street in the Flatiron district. Great old neon sign, marble bar, old wooden booths, tiled floors, green and white striped awnings...you really do feel as if you've stepped back in time when you enter this establishment. One could almost see the ghosts of the old New York politico's from Tammany Hall on 17th Street strolling over for a pint and some deal-making. A little taste of Olde New York.

Back to School

2010-02-14T13:30:00.000-08:00

Talking art

Photo, speaking to a class about being an artist

An art teacher that I know in the LIC neighborhood, invited me to speak to a class of elementary school kids about what it is like to be an artist. So last Friday I headed over to meet with the class. On the way, I found myself remembering my 2nd grade art teacher, Miss Calabro. With her red hair and green stockings she made quite an impression and I remember art class being my favorite time of the day.

Being back in a classroom with little desks and chairs and art supplies brought me back to my own childhood. The kids looked at a bunch of postcards of my paintings that were displayed on the board and they had lots of questions for me. I was impressed, not only with the questions but with their observations on the paintings. This painting, "LIC/Yellow Factory Revisited" elicited a lot of attention as many of the kids recognized the building. They were a lively bunch and afterwards I stayed to watch them working on their sculpture project.

"LIC/Yellow Factory Revisited"
Oil on canvas
10 x 8 inches
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I did a stint as a student art teacher while in college as I got a dual degree in Fine Art and in Art Education. When I graduated, New York was in the depths of a recession and no teaching jobs were to be found. Instead of teaching art, I took a typing class and found a job in an office, painting in the evenings. I spent years pounding a keyboard in order to pay the rent, eventually finding a job working nights so that I could paint during the day. It paid off. One of the questions asked was "Is it hard being an artist?" The answer I gave was "yes it is, but it is worth the effort."

Erica, the teacher, sent me the following email: "Thank you again for coming. the children had a blast! I've never seen them so excited and well behaved. They could not wait to get to the post cards you brought. I feel they got a lot out of it and it was fun."

I had a blast too. Who knows, one of the kids in that class might be a budding artist and years from now will recall the day I came to talk about what it is like to be an artist.

Scribner's Then and Now

2010-02-08T09:27:00.001-08:00

Another bookstore no more

Schribner's II"
Oil on canvas
24 x 30 inches

A WONDERFUL building resides on 5th Avenue, the Scribner's building. I've painted this architectural gem several times and was interested to learn more about this historic building on Jeremiah's Vanishing New York blog today. Here's the link http://vanishingnewyork.blogspot.com/

Once artwork leaves the studio...

2010-01-28T13:37:00.000-08:00

Where will they end up?

"LIC 1889/1989
Oil on canvas
48 x 36 inches

Artists often refer to their paintings as their "children". After all, the painter spends time thinking about them, helping them come to life and grow on the canvas brushstroke by brushstroke and finally finishing them, ushering them into "adulthood". Then it is time to leave the studio and go out into the world. Exhibiting them in shows, sometimes winning an award or two. And then hopefully, making the sale that sends them to a new home. Once that happens, the artist pretty much loses track of them, becoming immersed with the work currently on the easel.

Occasionally these paintings do surface again, sometimes years later. This happened the other day when I chanced upon a listing on Craig's List offering this painting for sale. It is a view from my studio window as I watched the Citicorp building in Long Island City under construction. This was back in the late 1980's and the building in the foreground had been built in 1889. The painting epitomized the change in a neighborhood over a century of time. It had been sold a number of years ago as a corporate sale through a consultant. Now it seems this company is moving their office and selling artworks. I'm hoping it finds a good home. I did contact the owner and asked that I be informed, if possible, as to where the painting ends up. But, like a wayward child, it might never call home, letting me know where it is.

That got me to thinking, as I suspect many artists do, as to what happens to their work once they are gone. Paintings can survive for years if they were created with good materials and properly cared for, long outliving their creators. It is the artist's way of leaving a lasting legacy, the "I was here" statement. The vast majority of working artists today will fall into obscurity at some point, but sometimes their works live on. I hope some of my paintings do.

St. Mark's and 40th Street

2010-01-21T12:22:00.001-08:00

Who's watching who?

"Carved Lady"
Oil on canvas
20 x 16 inches
Sold

One of the blogs I enjoy following is Ephemeral New York. On January 18th, a post featured a picture of a building facade on St. Mark's Place, an image I recognized immediately, as I'd painted that building back in the 1980's. This medusa-like figure, along with the fire escape shadows brings to mind the history of the block, so different from the street level retail hustle and bustle. It is exciting to discover these interesting architectural details.

"Midtown Artist"
Oil on canvas
10 x 8 inches

The other day I found myself on 40th Street with a friend when I recognized another great building facade that I had painted and I excitedly pointed it out. On the north side of 40th Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues is a building with a number of life-size figures adorning the facade. I decided to do a painting of the "artist", naturally. When walking around the city, just look up and you'll be surprised what you'll see.

Citicorp Lobby Showcases in LIC

2010-01-11T12:00:00.000-08:00

The show is up and running

"LIC Courthouse Fountain"
Oil on canvas
10 x 10 inches

"Urbanesque", a new exhibit, has been installed in the 6 lobby showcases located in the atrium of the Citicorp building, One Court Square. In this exhibit, sponsored by Women in the Arts Foundation, Inc., 4 artists explore the urban landscape, with several paintings of the LIC area included as well. Works by Carole Barlowe, Elinore Bucholtz, Diane Waller and Sharon Florin (curator) will be on view through the end of March. Hours are Monday - Friday, 7am - 7pm.

Installation day was pretty interesting. I had a chance to meet with several of the art staff at Citicorp. They manage a very large corporate collection and one of my favorite artists, Charles Sheeler, is represented in their holdings. We had lunch in the company cafeteria and I was then taken to the 50th floor where I was treated to the amazing views from on high. Luckily I had my camera with me and was able to get some interesting photos. During lunch, I spoke about being an artist in LIC for close to 30 years, and we talked a bit about the neighborhood and it's history. As you can imagine, folks working in the building often don't venture out into the nabe, but I did my best to extoll the virtues of LIC and urged them to get out and explore. Curating a show was also a new experience. I enjoyed meeting the artists and presenting them with an opportunity to exhibit their artwork.

One of my paintings of the Long Island City Courthouse was featured on liQcity, a popular neighborhood blog. Here's the link.

New Year New Show

2010-01-02T12:39:00.000-08:00

"LIC Jackson Crossroads"
Oil on canvas
10x10 inches

Starting 2010 off right.

First off, wishing you all a Happy New Year! And a big thank-you for your comments and support of my efforts with this blog.

The new year finds me not only wearing the hat of the artist, but I've now added the hat of curator as well. A new exhibit sponsored by Women in the Arts Foundation, Inc. features four New York artists, exploring the urban landscape in their own individual styles. We're installing the show on Wednesday in the Lobby Showcases located in the atrium of the Citicorp Center building in Long Island City - Queen's tallest building. I am happy to have this opportunity to show some of my LIC-themed paintings in the neighborhood that inspired them. Several paintings of the Long Island City courthouse - just across the street from Citicorp - will be on display along with paintings of P.S.1, the #7 train, Jackson Avenue, construction workers and Brook's restaurant. Diane Waller, Elinore Bucholtz and Carole Barlowe, the other participating artists work range from abstract to realistic to mixed media and I think the selection of art will make for an interesting exhibit. It's been a new experience pulling this together and hopefully the installation will go well.

If you're in the neighborhood and would like to stop by to see the show, Citicorp is located at One Court Square on Jackson Avenue. Just head for the Atrium and check out the six lobby showcases. The hours are 7 am - 7pm Monday through Friday. The show will run for 3 months though March. The #7 and the E trains are nearby.

The Holiday Season

2009-12-17T12:51:00.001-08:00

"Shirley's View II"
Oil on canvas
36 x 24 inches
Sold

This painting is a scene overlooking Central Park and Fifth Avenue and is currently part of the corporate collection of a pharmaceutical company. They chose this painting for their holiday card and as I was given a bunch, I sent them out this year to family and friends. The holidays are not my favorite time of year and I always breathe a sigh of relief when they are over. The next two weeks will find me eating latkes during the festival of lights, having holiday get-together's and lunches with friends and helping to trim a tree. I try to avoid the hectic pace that this season can bring on and instead try to keep to my usual painting schedule when possible. I'm hoping that the upcoming year will be a good one for all of us. Wishing you a happy holiday season and thanking you for following my blog postings throughout the year. Hope to have some really wonderful work to share in the upcoming months.

West Village Walk-Up

2009-12-02T11:31:00.000-08:00

Huff and Puff

"Hudson and Jane"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches
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I delivered a painting this morning to a collector in the West Village of Manhattan. The apartment was in an old, walk-up and getting the large and heavy painting up the narrow, winding stairs was tricky. I was huffing and puffing by the time I reached my destination. Living in an urban environment I tackle a lot of stairs on a daily basis. I live in a walk-up. I take the subway daily. My studio is located in a walk-up. You'd think I'd be used to this by now. I've made a promise to myself that if and when I ever move again, it is going to be to an apartment with an elevator!

Today's adventure reminded me of this painting that I was commissioned to do several years ago. The building I found myself in this morning was not unlike this scene in the West Village. These old, turn of the century buildings can still be found all over the city, in stark contrast to the newly-built glass boxes now in vogue. I like to look at the old buildings, notice their details and even their decay and I like to paint them. Over this past week-end friends from out-of-town called unexpectedly and I spent several pleasant hours visiting with them. We found ourselves on 3rd Avenue in the 50's and I pointed out a stretch of tall office towers. I remembered working in that neighborhood in the '70's and '80's when low rise, 3-story buildings like the one in my painting abounded. I watched those office towers being built. How New York City's infrastructure keeps up with all the continuous development never ceases to astound.

Allied Artists of America 96th Annual Exhibition at the National Arts Club

2009-11-15T12:34:00.000-08:00

"59th Street Bridge Reflections"
Oil on canvas
36 x 30 inches
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I stopped in to see this large exhibit on Saturday and my painting "59th Street Bridge Reflections" has received a painting award. Always nice to get this type of recognition for my work. This is always a very fine exhibit with beautiful work on view. The show runs through December 1 and the reception and awards ceremony will be on Sunday, November 29th at 1:00 pm. There will be a sculpture demonstration as well by Madeline Segall-Marx, a talented sculptor. The NAC is located at 15 Gramercy Park South if you'd like to stop by to see the exhibit. Hours are Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10-12 pm, 3-5 pm., Tuesday, 2-5 pm. Sat and Sun you must call for gallery hours - 212-475-3424. It's a good idea to call the club as they often have events in the gallery space and it might not be open to the public. I have a buyer for this painting so this exhibit, in a sense, is its last hurrah before heading off to a new home.

A Little Night Music in the Garden

2009-11-06T08:15:00.000-08:00

Bruce and Leonard

"30 Years!"
Oil on canvas
12 x 9 inches

Tomorrow night I'm heading to Madison Square Garden with an old friend to see Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band and I'm psyched. I've heard that the second album, "The Wild, The Innocent and the E Street Shuffle" will be played in it's entirety and I'm especially looking forward to hearing "New York Serenade." It was the first Springsteen song I'd ever heard on the radio, that piano intro is mesmerizing and it was the song that made me a believer :-). The song was performed at the 2001 show that I attended so here I'll be, 8 years down the road, enjoying it once more. As Springsteen and the members of the great E Street Band get older and in the sad case of Danny Federici pass away, these concerts - legendary really - might not be in the future. So, I'm gonna really, I mean really, savor Saturday's show.

Photo on a marquee, 2009

Which brings me to the concert I saw, also at the Garden, a few weeks ago. Leonard Cohen, 75 years old, the master poet in the tower of song. He held the crowd in the palm of his hand, as one song after another were sung by the man himself and his incomparable back-up singers and band. When I was a kid, I was a real folkie. Got a guitar and learned a few chords. One summer I attended a music and arts camp - it was there I was first introduced to oil paints and made the decision to become an artist and it was there that I learned a version on the guitar of one of Cohen's early hits "Suzanne." He sang that song along with so many others with his "gift of a golden voice" at the concert I attended and the night was truly unforgettable.

Bruce Springsteen and Leonard Cohen - two master singer/songwriters and performers. Their songs are part of the soundtrack of my life and how lucky am I to have been able to get tickets to see them doing what they do best.

2009-10-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

The Crash of '29

Eerily familiar

"NYSE"
Oil on canvas
9 x 12 inches
Sold

Today marks the 80th anniversary of the stock market crash of 1929, the one that heralded in THE Great Depression. The other evening I watched a PBS program, again, about the crash that was filmed in the '90's. Way too many similarities with what happened then and what is happening now. Saw the Michael Moore film "Capitalism" recently as well. We're living in scary times and it's all too true, history repeats itself, again and again.

A few weeks ago I was down in the Wall Street area. The streets surrounding the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall were filled with tourists wandering around the canyons of finance snapping photos. The Exchange is draped in a huge American Flag these days and it does grab your attention.

Photo NYSE 2009

As a working artist, I've been living "on the edge" for a long time now. There is no security that comes with the job description of artist. No one is going to fire me. I paint because I love it and can't think of anything else I'd rather be doing. When the economy is struggling, artists struggle along with it. It just comes with the territory. My mantra is "one day at a time". Keep on working. Keep on exhibiting. And hopefully, keep on selling.

Scheffel Hall

2009-10-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

German Renaissance Revival on 17th Street

"Scheffel Hall"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

Continuing my explorations in paint of the Gramercy/Flatiron Districts I'd like to share this new painting with you. Scheffel Hall is a wonderfully ornate building, surrounded by nondescript buildings on either side, so it really stands out on 17th Street and 3rd Avenue. Built in the late 1800's, the upper facade has some wonderful terra-cotta cladding. Reading up on the history of the building, it served as a restaurant for many years. I remember passing by when it was Fat Tuesday's, a jazz club. A hologram of Dizzy Gillespie in the front window changed as one passed by, with the musician's cheeks puffing out and in as he played his horn. It now houses Sal Anthony's pilates and yoga hangout and when I peek in the open door the old wooden interior is filled with exercise equipment. The building originally had another entrance around the corner as well, but that was taken down and a small church is tucked in that space. Anyone who has followed this blog knows that I love the older buildings of the city and Scheffel Hall is one beauty that I hope will not disappear anytime soon.

TDF and Me

2009-10-23T09:16:00.000-07:00

Theater, theater, theater

"TKTS"
Oil on canvas
30 x 36 inches
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One of the greatest things about living in New York is going to the theater! When I was a child, my mother used to drag my brother and I to Broadway to see a Saturday matinee. I grew up to love the theater-going experience, and I try to take advantage of the many ticket offers and discounts that are available which allow me the luxury of attending a show. A cabinet in my studio is packed with Playbills, I don't have the heart to thrown them away. The Theater Development Fund, the folks who run the TKTS booth on 47th Street, do a great service by making possible affordable tickets. As the prices have climbed higher and higher over the years, I'm fearful that many folks, especially younger people, will not have the opportunity to see live theater.

I did this painting several years ago of the TKTS booth which has since been torn down and totally remodeled, as often happens with subjects that I have painted. Might have do do another painting of the snazzy new structure. I share this one with you today because the Fall has been wonderful for this ardent theater-goer. Among the plays that I've seen that I've really enjoyed have been "Memphis" (a great new musical!), "Hamlet", "Superior Donuts", "Finian's Rainbow", "Rock of Ages", "Wishful Drinking", "The Royal Family", "After Miss Julie" and "Ruined". Have also seen several wonderful off-Broadway shows but there is only so much room on this blog.

I don't always agree with the critics. The rumors that the Great White Way is on it's last legs still abound. But, for me, theater and New York are inseparable and I thank my lucky stars that terrific plays are being written and revived and that terrific actors are still treading the boards, to the delight of many.

The Majestic Flatiron Building

2009-10-08T14:08:00.000-07:00

One of New York's treasured buildings

"Flatiron II - A Bird's Eye View"
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches

Working on a new series of paintings centered around the Flatiron and Gramercy Park areas of Manhattan and recently finished this painting. Had a wonderful vantage point from the building across the street - a view of the building that I'd never experienced before. It gave me an opportunity to look at some of the detailing on the facade more closely, along with the view down 23rd Street, looking west towards Jersey. A bird's eye view, high up in the sky.

Speaking of buildings, this week-end is the annual Open House New York event, an homage to many of the city's architectural treasures, both famous and obscure. I plan to take my camera and go behind the scenes once again in hopes of catching some interesting sites and generating some new ideas for future paintings.

Q Culture 2009

2009-09-30T07:06:00.000-07:00

Cover art

Cover of the Queens Tribune Q Culture 2009 Guide
Vol. 39
No. 39
Sept. 24-30, 2009

The other day a friend called me up very excited. She was in the bank when she noticed my painting featured on the cover of the Queens Tribune's special edition cultural guide. Museums, galleries, art venues, music...in short, cultural places and events in the borough. My painting, LIC/Short Triangle is prominently displayed. I knew nothing about this, so it was a nice surprise!