The Story

This painting was begun in New York City, inspired by a Fragonard painting I encountered at the Frick Collection. It was originally created for Spirits of Brooklyn, an exhibition presented in a beautiful Brooklyn church that explores the meeting point between the real and the imaginal, and the sacred presence hidden within everyday life.

The painting weaves together elements of Prospect Park, the American Museum of Natural History, and friends from my life in New York, transforming familiar people and places through mythological imagery and Renaissance-inspired techniques. 

I began the painting in New York and completed it in Florence, Italy, where it took on another layer of meaning. After seeing Fra Angelico’s paintings at the Museum of San Marco, I was  inspired by his use of color, light, and sacred space. The finished painting brings these two cities into conversation, blending the vibrant, contemporary spirit of Brooklyn with the beauty, and devotional atmosphere of Florence.

Materials & Framing

This painting was created with archival oil paint on a museum-grade panel, using luminous mineral pigments derived from lapis lazuli, azurite, rhodonite, and traditional Italian earth pigments. These richly colored materials have a deep connection to art history.

Lapis lazuli, azurite, and earth pigments were treasured by Italian Renaissance masters for their depth, brilliance, and enduring beauty. 

The painting is presented in a hand-painted, carved wooden frame made in Italy. The frame was carefully selected to echo the ornate architectural details, decorative flourishes, and gilded surfaces I encountered throughout Florence. 

Spirits of Brooklyn II

oil on panel

7 x 5 inches

$1,500 USD

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