A Majestic Gypsy
Oil on panel
8x8 inches

"A Majestic Gypsy", oil on panel, 8x8 inches. This was an opening night gift, commissioned by a Dad whose son is a cast member of this latest revival of "Gypsy" on Broadway. Ciáran Sheehan and I met many years ago when we both worked the night shift at a large public relations company. He spent the days studying and going on auditions and has carved out a wonderful career in the years that followed. A terrific singer and actor, I've had the pleasure of attending his performances with our mutual friend Denis over the years, most memorably when he was the Phantom in "Phantom of the Opera" on Broadway. Fast forward to 2025 when Ciáran's son Declan, a young and talented dancer, landed the role of Yonkers in "Gypsy", marking his Broadway debut. How marvelous that Ciáran's boy is now performing on the same stage his Dad did back in the day, one proud papa. 

 

Now "Gypsy" is my all-time favorite musical hands down. I've seen many revivals and productions, the first being the movie starring Rosalind Russell which left a lasting impression since I saw as a kid and still have the cast album. Had a great time creating this painting, all the while singing along with Ethel Merman and Patti LuPone's CD's. So, you can imagine how excited I was to see this newest revival of what is arguably one of the finest musicals ever created. I enjoyed the show as I knew I would but couldn't help thinking about other productions and actresses who've tackled the formidable role of Mama Rose. This new production was a vehicle for the very talented Audra McDonald who performed the role well but her operatically trained voice did not always suit Rose's character and her performance was not as nuanced as some of the other actresses who took on the challenge. That being said, it was a good production with a lot of talent on stage and this is one show that never fails, it is that good. If you have the chance and are looking for a very special Broadway experience, head over to the newly renovated Majestic theater and enjoy.

 

Red Bow on Fifth
Oil on canvas
12x9 inches

 

Last year I spotted this view of a brightly lit holiday window on Fifth Avenue with a group of softly lit diners inside enjoying a festive meal. Caught the spirit of the season.

 

LIC Street Scene

LIC Red Door and Roses
Oil on canvas
12x9 inches

A recent painting to add to my ongoing Long Island City series. This older home in LIC still stands while continuing to be surrounded by construction of new developments, many glass boxes abound. There are a lot of stories with these older homes, mirroring the history of the neighborhood and the people who once lived here. I do enjoy capturing these LIC scenes as they might disappear at any moment given the ongoing building projects that can be seen in many areas.

A bit of LIC's past

LIC 21-17
Oil on panel
8x8 inches
SOLD

A just finished commissioned portrait of a building in LIC not far from my studio. Amid all of the development and construction some of LIC's past can still be found on the quiet side streets. I enjoyed capturing this charming home with the beautiful sunlight dappled brickwork and small touches. Many of these older buildings have been disappearing and I never tire of capturing them on canvas going on well over 40 years.

A Lobby Installation in Harlem

Art Installation in 125th Street Lobby in Harlem
5 oil on canvas reflection paintings
through February, 2025

An art adviser contacted me expressing interest in exhibiting some of my larger NY-themed paintings in the lobby of an office building on 125th Street in Harlem. I like the selection chosen as they portray places throughout the city - Hudson Yards, Columbus Circle, Madison Avenue, Grand Central Terminal and Ninth Avenue. A nice opportunity to get my work out before the public.

LIC - Across the River

 

LIC_Across the River
Oil on canvas
12x24 inches

I continue to paint the Long Island City urban landscape 40+ years on. This is the view from the LIC waterfront, looking west to the forest of small and towering buildings of Manhattan. As an artist I've seen the constant architectural chnages and I still attempt to capture New York in a moment in time.

 

Green Roof Reflections
Oil on canvas
30x24 inches

A new painting to share. This recent reflection painting has been accepted into the Allied Artists of America 111th Annual Exhibition and will be on view in the Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown, OH, September 8 - November 10, 2024. Always an honor to be included in this annual exhibition. And just love spotting really interesting building reflections as I walk around the city.