Long Island artists come togther

Hamptons folk musician Caroline Doctorow debuted her new album at Buckley’s restaurant in Valley Stream on Dec. 4, but the evening celebrated more than just her music. Local artist Michael Stanko, a lifelong Valley Stream resident, designed the CD cover, his first.

The two met last year when Stanko heard Doctorow perform in Montauk. Stanko said during a break in the set he had the opportunity to talk to Doctorow and praise her music. They met again when Doctorow attended Stanko’s art show at the Ripe Art Gallery in Greenlawn.

“It was a mutual respect,” Stanko said. “I loved her music. She loved my art work.”

About a year ago, Doctorow approached Stanko about using one of his paintings for the cover of her eighth album, “Sweet to Me.” Doctorow described Stanko’s art as “very approachable” and said it reminds her of the 1960s, the same decade that influences much of her music.

Stanko calls himself a pop artist, and paints scenes from everyday life such as beach scenes, buildings, food and sneakers. He said he wants people to relate to his works.

“I was completely floored,” Stanko said about the offer. “It was the next step for me as an artist.”

Doctorow looked through Stanko’s work and selected a painting of flowers. From there, her husband, a graphic designer, took the work and turned it into the album cover.

For Doctorow, she was very happy with how the album cover turned out and raved about Stanko’s artistic talent. “Not anyone can do it,” she said. “He has a gift.”

Stanko, a Central High School graduate, has had a Boar’s Head delivery route in the area for 31 years. He maintains an art studio in his house and said he has hosted shows all over the tri-state area. Stanko, whose work has been on display in the Empire State Building, also produces a calendar with his work every year.

Doctorow is a singer with Caroline Doctorow and The Steamrollers and has now released eight albums through Narrow Lane Records. She is the daughter of noted author E. L. Doctorow and lives in Bridgehampton.

The two plan to unite again in February. Doctorow will play at the opening of Stanko’s next art show at Rothman’s Gallery in Southold.

Learn more

The art of Michael Stanko
www.stankoart.com

The music of Caroline Doctorow
www.carolinedoctorow.com