This week, we’re chatting with Dave Globerson! He shares what he loves most about his career as an artist (you must check out his pet portraits!), his ideal GF day, and the one type of restaurant he’d love to see downtown.
Dave Globerson with his wife, Jenny | Photo: Bri Lyons
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Dave Globerson, I’m a Glens Falls based artist specializing in creative portraiture and illustration. I grew up in Saratoga and I graduated college from the University of Hartford Art School in 2008. My wife and I moved to the area in late 2020 and are absolutely thrilled to live here.
The pandemic shutdown awarded an interesting opportunity to pivot and start my own creative business. I’ve had a number of different career paths in the restaurant industry (as many creatives tend to gravitate towards) and as a musician, but at the end of the day I knew I wanted to be an artist. I knew there was something more for me out there. I needed a change. I started making pet portraits for my family and a few friends and posting it on Instagram. Next thing I know, a flood of requests came my way. My wife encouraged me to keep going with it, so I set up a studio in our spare bedroom, got to work, and I haven’t looked back since. I’m so thankful for her love, support, organization and critical eye. Without her I don’t know where I’d be.
My mission as an artist is to create meaningful and individualized paintings for my clients. I’m often regaled with stories about their pets or loved ones; many of my clients have hilarious narratives they give to their pets and it’s my job to bring those stories to life. I like to pepper my humor into my work (and in every aspect of my life for that matter) which has led to some genuinely hilarious pieces. I realize how uniquely fortunate I am when my work day ranges from printing a basset hound as an astronaut, a papillon as Martin Van Buren, or an Elizabethan portrait of a cat, just to name a few. Memorial paintings have become a major part of my portfolio, too. I’ve been able to help many people cope with grief through my artwork. I feel incredibly fortunate to bring light to people during difficult times.
I don’t just paint pet portraits, although they are a primary focus of mine. I'm proud to have created artwork for a bunch of local 518 businesses such as Kru Coffee, Lake George Crossfit, Whitman Brewing Company, Henry Street Taproom, Flatbread Social, and Unified Beerworks. My portfolio also includes wedding portraits, traditional portraits, can labels, chalk art, spray paint murals, lawn jockeys and album art. I also painted a Saratoga Horse which is on display in front of The Posie Peddler in Saratoga, as well as several Ballet Shoes for the National Museum of Dance that are on display in front of Spot Coffee in Saratoga. I try to say yes to every commission and give it my all.
On Life In and Around Glens Falls
Why Glens Falls, you ask? Location and community is the short answer. My wife and I eloped at Highlands Castle in May 2020 and with the money we saved we were able to afford a house. She works at Glens Falls Hospital as a PA. The main criteria was for us to find a place close to the hospital, a place for me to set up a studio and a back yard for our dog to play in.
After looking extensively we found the perfect home. The neighborhood around Crandall Park is lovely. I love how the entire area is so community based, wholesome and neighborly. Our house is from 1905 and was maintained beautifully. We moved in during that humongous snowstorm at the tail end of 2020 and our neighbors were quick to offer us help in any way we needed. I love how beautiful everyone’s homes and gardens are each season and holiday. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the incredible collective effort that goes into Halloween around here.
Some Glens Falls Favorites
One thing I love about Glens Falls is that there are so many little hidden gems scattered throughout. Arroy Dee for sushi and thai is A+. Birch Bark Eatery donuts are a slice of heaven. Angelina’s Grandma Pizza is my personal favorite in the area. As a vinyl collector and overall music nerd, I’d also love to give a shoutout to Sweet Side Records. I would love to hear more recommendations from locals as well!
A Perfect Glens Falls Day
Our ideal day in Glens Falls? Start off with a good workout at Lake George Crossfit, get coffee and breakfast sandwiches at Kru Coffee downtown, take the dog for a walk through Crandall Park, afternoon cocktails on the front porch, then dinner at Radici. If porch cocktails aren't an option then we’d have margaritas over at Raul’s. I also love paying a visit to our friends at Common Roots for some killer beer and a delicious pizza. Especially after a hike!
On the Future
My wife and I frequent our downtown often and there are some really great shops and restaurants around the area. There are some empty storefronts that are holding tremendous potential. I could see this becoming the new hot spot for even more creative restaurants, bars, clothiers and startups.
If I could wave a magic wand, I’d love to see a proper BBQ restaurant set up somewhere downtown. If there is one and I’m missing out, please let me know!!
On the Past
Although I grew up in Saratoga, I have fond memories of Glens Falls. My Dad had a pediatric dental practice here. His office was super fun and full of arcade games and bright colors. He used to take me over to Lox of Bagels or Steve’s Place whenever I went to visit him during a work day. Chances are, if you’re a Gen Xer or an elder Millennial from around this area, he was your dentist.
This is a wonderful town with a great sense of community. I’m glad to be part of it! For anyone interested in checking out my work or commissioning a painting, my website is www.dfgillustration.com and you can follow me on instagram @dfgillustration.
