The works of John Gambino (originally introduced as John Gambin) will be on display at CSM in May and June. After a bit of digging, his signature on the back is a stamped pen name.  We unearthed quite a collection of his pieces which date from the 1940’s and 1950’s when he vistited NY from Italy. His little jewel-like pieces are painted on masonite, and canvas boards as well as linoleum tiles.

The little works (approximately 8 x 10 each) depict scenes of old New York from Central Park to the docks of the Hudson. Sometimes an overwhelming sense of loneliness is felt even without a direct narrative. His choice of these empty scenes and pallette may lead to this interpretation. He does however place people in some of his works, but only within a cityscape.

Image 12

Image 13

NYC, 1948