The Arts by Karena February 2016

Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Featuring Sculptor Joe Gitterman

The Arts by Karena Blog



Stunning, breathtaking, and dynamic are just a few ways to describe sculptor Joe Gitterman's works of art. Using a unique array of fine metals and finishes, his designs become a focal point of interest whether in a residential, commercial, or public domain.

Mr Gitterman has an impressive list of private commissions and has the ability to fabricate his sculptures in many sizes. Please enjoy his fascinating story and our discussion below.

1) Joe thank you so much for participating in this interview. Your sculptures are stunning! After an illustrious career on the New York Stock Exchange, what propelled you into the life of a professional artist and sculptor?

"I took my first art classes many years ago when my wife was working nights in the theater. I was working in the New York Stock Exchange at the time and my nights were free so I decided to put them to good use and nurture my interest in art. It became a hobby that I spent a lot of time on. I worked in plaster, wood and marble but really fell in love with metal. In 2011 I happen to participate in a gallery show and ended up selling a few pieces. It was a pleasant surprise to me that my pieces sold. I quickly mounted a website and became a full-time working artist."

2) When did you first become interested in the arts?

"Like many people I owe my interest in arts to a teacher. My 6th grade teacher was fantastic and really encouraged me to express myself through art."

3) Your sculptures are infused with movement. How does your thought process work when you begin a new piece or a new series of art?

"It's a process in which I get a picture in my mind. I try to create what I am visualizing but sometimes I end up with something different than I originally envisioned. Sometimes that ends up being a really exciting surprise"

4) Who has influenced your style and creativity? Are there mentors or other artists that you respect and admire?

"To name just three I would say Brancusi, Hepworth and Moore. My mentors and other artists that I admire is a very long list of amazing talents and contemporaries that have helped me. Too many to mention. "

5) Joe, I understand you do many private commissions from clients such as the renowned interior designer Robert Couturier to Norwegian Cruise Lines. Would you tell us more about that?

"For me the most exciting aspect of doing a commissioned piece or pieces is creating something that fits into and compliments the aesthetic of a specific location or design need. It is very different than creating something I love for myself. I recently installed a piece in a luxury residential building by architecture icon Robert A.M. Stern in Washington DC. It is the only sculpture in the building. "

6) Where can readers find your sculptures and do you have any upcoming exhibits?

"I'm working on some future exhibits and more information is available on my website - WWW.JOEGITTERMAN.COM
I am also on Linkedin, Pinterest , Facebook and some art exhibition sites."

7) What is your advice to the beginning artist of any age?

"Be passionate about what you do and always keep exploring."

Thank you again, Joe!