Connect What is your favorite type of art to create?

I'm primarily known as a poet and writer in many genres. Lately, I've enjoyed posting prose and essays on Substack. I am able to include poetry, and original photography. I also like working with my musician friends and cohorts. "We speak in tongues," as one member put it. In 2024 my collaborator Joe Sztabnik and I released an album, "Under Tenement Skies," with my lyrics and vocals and Joe's original music and production. The collaboration of words and music has been a joy.

Where do you find inspiration?

Inspiration finds me. If I waited to find it, I might not do much. Overheard conversations, and my own, other people's stories (and my own), my dog chasing the ball, the sun rising in my window, or the cars rushing by on the highway. Moments collide into song and poetry. Creating with others is a joy. One of the photos shows my poem written on a wall by artist Robert Carrithers in a Berlin gallery. Art brings us together in the world.

What would you do with $25,000?

These are difficult times. I was lucky enough to grow up with the Lower East Side as my teacher. We had permission to be artists, given by the universe called New York City. It's harder for kids today. I've had books published, I've traveled a bit. I would collaborate with community groups to put some of the money in the hands of young people with vision for their underserved neighborhood. Murals,studios, recording equipment. I'd put aside about 25% for my operating expenses and new projects.