Member Spotlight: 
Jay Costanza

“The changing light of day and the moods it creates are the foundations of my paintings.”

My pieces usually start with a fundamental sketch, an underpainting, and then the application of color with an emphasis on value, temperature, and harmony. Painting is a synthesis of my personal feelings of the subject that inspires me. My interest in art began in college when I was studying biology and I found myself sketching all the animals in my text  book.

After completing my Master's Degree in Secondary Education, I became an educator for the next 35 years, painting occasionally. I frequently incorporated art into my science lessons, which helped my students understand the content more easily. After I retired in 2015, my passion for art was rekindled, and I have been painting full time ever since, both in and out of my studio.

Jay is an active member of the Rochester Art Club, Pastel Society of America, Art Center of Yates County, Pastel Society of Western New York, Adirondack Pastel Society, Greater Rochester Plein Air Painters and the Railroad Street Artworks Gallery. He is a former president and vice president of the Pastel Society of Western New York. Jay has received art awards in local, regional and national level juried competitions. See more of Jay's work at: jaycostanzaart.com.