Roger E. Gorrin: Artist
Welcome to my online portfolio.
In this site, you'll find background information about me and my education, photographs of my work, and updated information in the "What's New" section.
About Me
I was born, raised and educated in Brooklyn, NY. I lived on Staten Island for 34 years and now live in Miami Lakes, Fl and Jackson, NJ. Since childhood I have always had an interest in art and although I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology I always surrounded myself with original oil paintings. About 25 years ago, I started painting as a means of stress reduction from my job as a NYS Parole Officer. I'm retired now from my law enforcement career and devote my time to my art.
Primarily, I consider myself self-taught. However, I studied technique for two years at Snug Harbor Cultural Center of Staten Island and attended various art workshops when they were available. I also read many different books on art and technique which helped me develop my style of painting.
About My Art
All of my paintings are oil on canvas. I chose oil as my medium because of the rich, bold color that I find lacking in watercolor and the smell of the oil that is missing in acrylic paint. Working with oil just helps to keep me connected to the "old masters". I want people to understand what they are looking at so my style is very realistic. You don't need a Fine Arts degree to enjoy my work.
As a Parole Officer I had to see much of the less pleasurable scenes of society so it was important to me to paint the more beautiful, peaceful scenes that could be found around me. Some artists feel compelled to show the social ills of society in their work. Not I. People don't need to have a depressing painting hanging in their living room.
Most of my paintings are landscapes and usually feature some form of architectural structure. I enjoy the play between light and shadow and usually emphasize this in my work. I also specialize in "House Portraits" which put your home on canvas rather than Granny's smile.
My paintings have been shown in galleries, art shows, restaurants and office buildings throughout New York City. They have won numerous prize ribbons and one was published in a calendar. They hang in many private collections.
I am a member and serve on the council of the Artists' Federation of Staten Island.Se Habla Espanol!
Photographs of Paintings
Covered Bridge on Dry Brook Road
16x20" Oil on Canvas
Please go to PHOTO PAGE for more! Clicking on any painting will enlarge the photo!
