Where are you from originally?
Born and bred in Buffalo, NY
What is your medium?
Photography
How has Buffalo influenced your work?
Beautiful architectural buildings, close to waterways such as the marina, canals, Niagara Falls and the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
As a young man I knew that everything changes slowly and I wanted to record "My Buffalo" as it was during my youth.
Name an artist (or more) that most inspires you?
As a schoolboy I always enjoyed looking at photographs in books and magazines. I was inspired by Joe Rosenthal, Alfred Eisenstaedt, and Bob Smith, a photographer for the Buffalo News.
What is your preferred subject matter?
As a street photographer, anything that I see of interest I would shoot immediately, because if you thought about taking it at a later time or date, the picture won't be there.
How do you feel you can best advance to the next level, or are you most happy where you are now?
I am very comfortable with where I am now. Over the years, I have complied hundreds of events and memories that I treasure.
What is another medium that you would like to learn? Or that you have already learned?
Keep taking photographs. "There are pictures out there waiting to be taken."
Is there a purpose to your artwork?
Now at my age, I would like to leave a historical record for future generations.
How often do you work on your art?
24-7
What or who first prompted you to venture into the art world?
Dr. Jack Lippes, a childhood friend. One day when we were playing in the street, Jack brought a camera along and took pictures of us playing. He piqued my interest in pursuing photography.
Have you been schooled in art? Are you planning on attending art school? If so, where?
Everything I learned is through experience, by attending seminars, joining camera clubs and talking with other photographers. Also getting ideas from photography magazines and camera books.
Where is your favorite venue in Buffalo to exhibit?
All of the local galleries and coffee shops. Mainly because the public can view my pictures free of charge.
Is there a gallery in Buffalo that you would like to show your work in, but haven't yet?
Buffalo & Erie County Historical Society
Where did you learn your craft?
Everyday street shooting
What are your strengths?
Black and white photos
Who would you most like to sell a work of art to?
Anyone who appreciates my photographs
What's the best thing about being an artist?
To capture all the beauty around us.
What's the worst thing about being an artist?
Not being allowed to take photographs that you have only one chance to take, i.e. street scenes and religious functions.
Is there another local artist who you would like us to interview?
Kenn Morgan
Do you have any shows coming up?
I am having a show at the LaDolce Vita restaurant at 1472 Hertel Ave., Buffalo, NY the second week of August. The show will run the whole month of August.
Support our local artists. Here are a few more Art Buffs to brush up on:
Elizabeth Leader, Jacqueline Welch, Doreen DeBoth, Joe Cascio, Candace Masters, Iris Kirkwood, Lukia Costello, Michael Morgulis, Julie Leatherbarrow, Chris Liberti, Michael Mararian, Daniel Rodgers, Bruce Adams, Ken Payne, Christina Cooke, Elise Anne Brooks, Frank Cravotta, Jackie Albarella
I had the opportunity to walk around with Jerry one day on the West Side taking photos. He was extremely knowledgeable and certainly loves his city.