Books Are Magic

My work happens when I’m out on the streets of the city, watching life. I observe life with curiosity—how passersby interact with their environment and with each other. Sometimes I am an invisible observer, and sometimes I am a direct observer, wanting to interact with the people I paint, and welcome a reaction to the observations that I made.

This print is part of an ongoing series inspired by my love of independent bookstores. I visit as many bookstores around NYC as I can and create a painting of each one, hoping to capture their unique character.

“Books Are Magic” is truly a magical store in Brooklyn, NY. I wanted to include in the painting the owner Emma Straub, who was lovely to meet and chat with.