Southampton Village is now home to A is for Art, opened by modern American artist and designer, Walter Sternlieb.
Sternleib is known as a designer, builder, woodworker, and master craftsman — and now an industrial artist. Located at 60 Jobs Lane, A is for Art brings to life Sternlieb’s vision.
His charismatic artwork was brought forth by ingenuity and creativity.
“I woke up one morning with this idea of a three-dimensional flag, made a prototype of it, then built it, painted it and hung it,” said Walter.
The specific vision of the then novice artist led to a series that includes his iconic pieces “The Staircase,” and “5 Hearts.” Eventually he established a professional portfolio that was so large it took up all of the wall space in his home. The colorful collection impressed visiting friends and fans and eventually led to thoughts of opening up a gallery to showcase his work.
“I knew there was a run-down property on Jobs Lane. I called the landlord and decided to rent it,” he said. “The interior was very run down, and I thought I could have a shabby-chic art gallery, but shabby chic just isn’t me, so we went in and cleaned it up a little bit. We started hanging my work, and work of some of my friends. In a very short period, I was getting a very good response to my work.”
Sternleib’s expressive three-dimensional paintings encompass powerful expressions full of rich color and bold design. The dazzling collection comes from a special place in his personal history.
“As a child, my parents dragged me to museums, and historic sites. I didn’t understand the purpose of all of it. I was very fortunate that they took me to all these places. It helped me in what I do today. All the things that I saw, and I have done in the past, have made me what I am today.”
An opening reception will be held on Saturday, June 26, from 5 to 7:30 PM.