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I was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on August 8, 1929, and spent my childhood along the docks and back-bay area of the Chelsea Section of the City. These visual experiences have been a great asset while sitting at my easel. Drawing on these images from earlier days, I paint detailed, realistic bay scapes, which give the viewer the illusion of actually being there. From the age of eleven I helped in my father's bakery spending most after-school hours learning the trade of cake baker and decorator. After spending two years at Rutgers University as a Liberal Arts major, I decided that studying commercial art was my primary life’s goal. I moved to New York City where I attended both the Work Shop School of Art and Pratt Institute. While at school, I supported myself by working for US Camera Magazine in the circulation and art departments. Due to the Korean War, the art career was put on hold. In May of 1951, I was drafted and spent the next two years serving in the United States Army. Shortly before being discharged in May of 1953, I met Marilyn Katz on a blind date. After a whirlwind courtship, we were married in October of 1953. I spent the years of 1953 through 1966 refining my decorating skills at the family owned bakery. In October of 1966, I went to work for Charles Zaberer at his restaurant. This was a unique place serving over a Thousand dinners during the weekdays. In a few short years I worked my way up to the position of food and beverage manager. Charles N. Zaberer, a genius restaurateur, promotional wizard and an artist himself became my mentor. Many years later, after a bout with Cancer; Charles Zaberer died. I drew on my commercial art background, put on a second hat, and began the task of designing all the advertising art, which included menus, newspaper ads, billboards and brochures. In 1972 the restaurant executives gave me a set of oil paints, which kindled the fine art spark, which had been set-aside for over twenty years. In 1982, I began commuting to Philadelphia. My administrative skills were now being used in the transportation business. In spite of spending more time commuting I still averaged thirty hours a week painting. My art subject matter varies and I am willing to tackle any subject; just for the challenge. My favorite creations include old architecture, seascapes, bay scenes, floral, antiques, and especially Southwestern landscapes. In 1998 a new dimension was added to my Art career. I started to collect and cultivate miniature trees known as Bonsai (pronounced bone sigh). These miniature trees are also known as living sculpture. My collection numbers over 60 trees. |
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At the easel and in my “Tree House” |