Renowned Sculptor John DiNaro's Artwork Showcased at Freeport Recreation Center

The Freeport Recreation Center is proudly displaying the artwork of acclaimed artist John DiNaro for two months, beginning on July 7.

The art is being exhibited at the center’s Art Alcove, which has been procured by the Long Island Arts Council at Freeport to further the presence of art in the lives of local residents.

Up to a dozen pieces of varying sizes will be displayed, all original creative wood sculptures made from different kinds of wood. Some of the work is “abstract” in nature while some is more “practical,” according to Larry Dressner of the LIACF.

DiNaro who owns an art gallery, “Horse & Eagle” in Bellport, Long Island, has captivated audiences with his stunning sculptures and community-focused art projects. His journey from a small-town boy to a respected figure in the art world is a testament to his dedication, creativity and passion for giving back.

DiNaro was born on Sept. 20, 1945, as one of two twin boys, to Santo DiNaro, an American army gunner with Italian roots, and Lily Victoria Blackmore, a North Londoner who served in the British Women’s Land Army.

In early 1946, John DiNaro and his twin brother, Santo Jr., crossed the Atlantic to the U.S. with their mother on the ocean liner Queen Mary.

The DiNaro family settled in Bellport, where John DiNaro grew up and eventually made his home. Today, his art studio remains a vital part of the Bellport community.

DiNaro’s love for the outdoors and the sea led him to Humboldt State University in California, where he pursued a degree in oceanography. However, his true calling was always art. After years of splitting his time between commercial clamming and sculpting, he realized that his passion lay in the creative world.

“I went to the University of California at Humboldt State in 1964, and I graduated as an oceanographer … and in those days, unfortunately, the only work that was really available was to do environmental impact studies for energy companies,” DiNaro said.

DiNaro’s painting skills were honed through an unusual apprenticeship. More than 35 years ago, while on a sailing expedition in the Abaco Islands, an island chain in the Bahamas, DiNaro met an elderly man painting on the beach.

Using unconventional tools like feathers, pine branches and rags, the man created beautiful two-dimensional works. Despite being deaf and mute, he taught DiNaro how to paint using both hands simultaneously, setting a rhythm that guided DiNaro’s artistic process.

This experience profoundly influenced DiNaro’s approach to art and his appreciation for learning through apprenticeship.

During the 1970s, DiNaro’s sculptures gained significant attention from large companies seeking unique pieces for their corporate offices. He spent several years creating large-scale sculptures for high-profile clients in the financial, insurance and real estate industries. His works have been prominently displayed in the offices of Marsh & McLennan and the Handler Real Estate Organization in Manhattan.

One of DiNaro’s most notable achievements was his involvement with the Ronald Reagan Legacy Project, creating a larger-than-life sculpture of a bald eagle that was displayed at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C.

As he matured, he felt a powerful desire to share his talents with others. He embarked on a lengthy career as an artist-in-residence in the public school system, guiding students from kindergarten through 12th grade in various art programs.

“I’ve been probably working with arts and education for Nassau and Suffolk County for about 40 years,” DiNaro said.

From murals to sculptures and artistic benches, DiNaro’s workshops have left a lasting impact on countless young artists. He also taught in-service programs for teachers looking to expand their art knowledge.

“I create a lot of sculpture work in … free forms and things like dolphins and whales … giant, big horses with attitude,” DiNaro said. “But when I work in education, I teach courses … about creativity, and my feelings are, we’re all gifted and we’re all talented and it’s our differences that makes us shine.”

“If you can dream it I can pretty much put it together,” he added. “I do a lot of custom work and I want to show the dynamics of supporting the arts.”

DiNaro has recently collaborated with local high school students on community beautification projects, helping them fulfill their scholastic community service requirements while enhancing the aesthetics of the community.

Although DiNaro is an artist and an art consultant for students, he spends his time as a fisherman, since he had developed a love of the sea from an early age.

The Freeport Recreation Center, where DiNaro’s work will be displayed beginning on July 7, is located at 130 East Merrick Road in Freeport.