ArtByZuk

Formerly a concert pianist and teacher, I transitioned to Art after a strained finger forced me from the concert stage. My Dad was a commercial artist/illustrator who had passed on and left me his supplies. I took his signature (“Zuk”) a shortened version of the family name (“Zukoff”) and began my journey. After studying various mediums I entered my first art show and won First Place in Oils. A new career was born! I also studied Advertising Art and Design at SUNY and began doing pen & ink renderings for real estate ads, magazine illustrations and pet portraits. Until about 15 years ago I was painting mostly landscapes and animals. I asked myself what is it that I love to paint and never tire of. The answer was “cats”. I find them truly mesmerizing, magical creatures. I never have far to look for inspiration. Ideas come to me as I watch my own cats and just let my imagination loose as I am continually charmed by them”.   Although most of my work is realistic I enjoy adding a bit of humor (realism with a twist). Animals (especially cats) are my favorite subject, and my hope is that people who see my work will be inspired to treat them all with kindness and dignity.