November 2021 marks the 15th anniversary of the publication of 100 New York Painters. Yes, that is my self-portrait in the 2nd row. As the publisher says, "Although you may recognize the names and works of many, this company of 100 painters also features works by artists less celebrated, though no less deserving of attention."

I met the author, Cynthia Dantzic, at a figure painting studio in SoHo, and she decided to include me in her book. Little did she know that I was near the end of a five year time frame I had given myself to try making art on a full-time basis, and then decide whether to continue. Earlier that year I had been accepted with a partial scholarship to the Vermont Studio Center's artist residency program. I took these as unmistakable signs to keep going.

And, so I have these last 15 years, and what an incredible journey it has been! I am filled with gratitude for having been acknowledged back then. And now, even more specifically, I identify strongly as a Brooklyn painter and proud to be a part of the Gowanus artists community.

The book is available at Schiffer Books, can be ordered at your local bookstore, and is on Amazon.com.