I went to the Syosset the other day for a little touch-up paint and boy, oh boy, did I get such a nice surprise. Who knew the experience of buying paint would be so thrilling!
While I was in the paint department I saw a large painted mural that caught my eye. It was propped up on one of the store's big orange push cart's. I did a double-take (I wasn't sure if it was just a poster, or not). I couldn't help but notice the wonderful detail and the time that must have gone into it. When I inquired about it, the man standing next to it claimed responsibility. I was in total awe.
It depicts a beautiful winter holiday scene with subtle, soft blue tones that give off the sense of tranquility with such a soothing calmness. Personally, a sense of peace came over me, and the feelings of an old fashioned past - simpler times, that were filled with great memories.
The talented man behind the amazing artwork is Vinnie Modica of East Northport. He actually works in Syosset's Home Depot paint department, and paints beautiful artwork at the same time, too! When Vinnie's not busy mixing a can of paint for a customer - he's picking up his paintbrush and is making great use of his time and very wisely, I might add.
Home Depot is proud to show him off, and who could blame them! Even his co-workers are in awe of his unique talent and very supportive, too. It started out that in the fall he was painting a mural for Halloween and his talent was recognized. The manager encouraged and endorsed him to continue since the customers appreciated his talent. (Good business, if you ask me)!
Co-worker, Cookie adds, "His paintings are phenomenal."
While another co-worker named Donna says, "He's a natural artist!"
Joanne at the Service Desk proudly stated, "He has multi-generational customers come back just to see him specifically and to learn techniques of how to paint in the home." You can say he's a master with a paintbrush, whether it be a wall in your home, or artwork on a canvas.
Vinnie, also, does workshops for Home Depot every first Saturday of the month to teach painting techniques of how to use paint in your special home projects.
Customers gather to look at his exceptional display of art with oohs and aaahs.
"Awesome," Mike Butcher of Syosset exclaimed as he came by. (I noticed he took a double-take, too).
John from Oyster Bay, "Fantastic! We just need a train set to go around it." (Great idea, I thought).
And we're talking a BIG mural size. His canvas measures 4'x 8' and is actually sheet-rock, (working at Home Depot, that made sense to me). Vinnie uses latex paint and has been painting since the age of 7! As I left him, he was painting a cute little snowman in the left corner, so I'll have to go back and see it when it's done, as he is just about finished. He'll be adding glitter soon, too. I can't wait!
If you get a chance, please stop by and say hello to Vinnie in the paint department, (even if you don't need to buy anything)....just gaze at his beautiful work this gifted man has done for his enjoyment and OURS.
Happy Holidays, Everyone!
