Michael Weinberg

Valerie Warner · 08-27-2003, 11:12 AM

My graphite portrait of Michael Weinberg. To those who knew him, it seemed only natural that Michael would someday become one of New York's bravest. He is a hero.

The 34-year-old firefighter, former St John's outfielder and player in the Detroit Tiger's farm system was killed in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center on 9/11 while seeking cover with two of his closest friends, Rev. Mychal Judge & Capt. Daniel Brethel as the towers collapsed.

His sister, Patricia Gambino, was working on the 72nd floor of Two World Trade Center and escaped. Michael was a member of the NYFD, Engine 1, Ladder 24 in lower Manhattan. In 1988 he was the BIG EAST Tournament's MVP. Later he played minor league ball, was very generous with his time helping neighbors, helping in the soup kitchen, with the homeless, and volunteering his time at the NY Burn Center.

This portrait is of a younger time for Michael. One in which his mother, Mary Pat, can see his impish grin and sparkling eyes.

I am proud and lucky to have had the opportunity to draw his portrait.

Kimberly Dow · 08-27-2003, 06:17 PM

Valerie,

The portrait is beautiful. I am glad you included his information, very touching.

Chris Saper · 08-27-2003, 09:39 PM

Valerie,

You have done a wonderful job. The pose and expression are very engaging, and you want to smile back. I think it is just great that you had a really good resource, and that the family was interested in this beautiful and personal choice.

Valerie Warner · 08-27-2003, 11:43 PM

Thanks for the kind words. I actually took the head off of one B&W photo that was pretty granulated and the shoulders in the fireman's coat off of another. It was a real shame I just couldn't put it in color and in oil paint. You can bet I'm working on that lack in my ability!

Deladier Almeida · 10-08-2003, 08:56 AM

Hi, Valerie.

Great drawing! From composition to execution.
I haven't seen you at the live model sessions lately...

Linda Brandon · 10-14-2003, 11:02 PM

Valerie, I just spotted this portrait, which is very beautifully and sensitively drawn. I'm glad you shared his story with us.

Please keep posting your work.

Valerie Warner · 10-15-2003, 11:55 AM

Thanks so much for taking the time to post to my portrait. It was very challenging as I did not have any proper reference. I combined 2 to make this view. I am now drawing and painting the figure 2-4 times per week and can't wait to be a working professional portrait artist. I will post in the section "from life" right now to show my latest effort.

Val