Daniel Finaldi, an artist with deep roots in Rochester, NY, grew up in a close-knit immigrant household. His grandparents, who purchased their home in 1929, provided a stable foundation for their family, which included Italian, Polish, Ukrainian, and Jewish communities, many of whom worked in the local garment industry.
From an early age, Finaldi’s artistic inclinations were evident. He spent his childhood filling scraps of paper with sketches and cartoons, generously provided by a neighbor, Mr. Loyson, who ran a commercial printing business. This early exposure to the arts was a precursor to Finaldi’s future in the field.
Finaldi’s formal journey in art began at a local community college, but it was his passion for painting that truly directed his path. Encouraged by supportive teachers, he transferred to SUNY New Paltz, where he was influenced by the predominantly Abstract Expressionist faculty. Despite this, Finaldi’s dedication to figurative art solidified during his time there.
Pursuing further education, Finaldi was accepted into the competitive MFA program at Brooklyn College, where he was mentored by renowned artists Lois Dodd, Lennart Anderson, and Philip Pearlstein. Dodd, in particular, became a close friend and significant influence on his work.
In 1990, Finaldi and his wife moved to Highland Park, NJ, reminiscent of his Brooklyn neighborhood. This move coincided with his wife’s acceptance into Rutgers’ Masters in Library Science program. In Highland Park, Finaldi formed a lasting friendship with artist Mel Leipzig, who became a major inspiration and close confidant.
Finaldi’s work is deeply rooted in reality, and he has consistently drawn inspiration from his surroundings. Despite the prevailing post-Modern theories during his BFA studies, he eventually gained the confidence to trust his instincts and focus on his response to the world around him. His paintings reflect a personal investment in capturing the essence of reality as he perceives it.
Here’s a slide show of his work:
