Joe Novak

Something to Do with Wings: a Memoir Joe Novak

This memoir of a Harvard trained lawyer turned artist is, among other things, about the power of commitment. Here are some highlights from Joe Novak's book: His friendship with Eleanor Roosevelt. Novak's proposed plan to extend capital ownership to low income workers in Puerto Rico, promoted by Governor Luis A. Ferre, who later stated it was the most important agenda of his administration. Publishing a major monograph on the Cuban artist, Agustin Fernandez. Designing and drafting the plans of a residence on Fire Island featured in House Beautiful. Co-producing an Off-Broadway musical. Conversing with Andy Warhol at Studio 54, from which came the title of this book. Joining Alcoholics Anonymous in New York City, and within three months becoming a full time painter, a career he has pursued with passion for almost three decades. Being mentored in East Hampton by Peter Busa, an original member of the New York School, and visiting Willem de Kooning in his studio with Busa. Exploring the effects of light on perception in a project called Light Emanations in Santa Fe. A retrospective of Novak's paintings was held at the Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College in conjunction with his fiftieth reunion. Novak's works are in hundreds of collections, public and private, including major art museums. He lives in Rancho Mirage, California with his partner, Willie Lebron. His website is www.joenovak.com.