A true Renaissance man, Michael Ricigliano successfully balances two careers at once. In recent years, he developed a career as an artist, writer, and film producer, while also still practicing law in Long Island, New York. He has exhibited his abstract work at the Union League Club Gallery and the Lilac Gallery in Manhattan, as well as The Huntington Art Gallery on Long Island. He wrote and produced the feature-length film, The Brooklyn Banker ("engrossing and grounded drama" NY Post), directed by Federico Castelluccio; it stars Paul Sorvino, David Proval, and Troy Garity. He also co-wrote the feature film, Created Equal, based on the book by R.A. Brown and directed by Bill Duke, and his film, The Court of Oyer and Terminer, starring Harry Lennix and Harris Yulin, is set to begin filming this summer.

Ricgliano's play, A Queen for a Day, directed by John Gould Rubin, had a very successful run Off Broadway, which the New York Times said, "With inherent intensity, [Ricigliano's] script is informed, well structured, and delivers satisfying surprises." Huffington Post noted, "A Queen for a Day is Crowned....With blissfully unexpected twists, spectators will be shaken, rattled and rolled. Nothing this effective comes along that often, so take advantage of its offbeat sizzle." A Queen for a Day is currently in preproduction for its feature film adaptation starring David Proval and directed by Federico Castelluccio.

Winter Sand

We were lucky enough to chat with Ricigliano about his art, inspiration, and more. Here's what he had to say...

How long have you been an artist?
I started to focus on creating abstract art along with charcoal sketch drawings after being introduced to the medium by Federico Castelluccio about 5 years ago. 

Is your art your full-time career?
I am an attorney by trade. I began writing for film and theatre about 10 years ago. Progressing as a visual artist is now a priority. 

Do you have favorite places you like to create?
I have a studio in my home. But I also like to work where my wife and kids are.

What does a typical day look like? Is there a typical day?
Each day I try to create, whether it be as a writer or an artist. 

Puse

What materials do you prefer?
Charcoal for sketch and acrylic on canvas and metal for my abstract pieces. 

Where/How are you inspired?
I was an athlete in college, so sports can be very inspiring. Photographs that capture how the athlete overcomes or falls short. 

How do you know when your piece is done?
I don't know if there ever done. I think it gets to a point that if I keep working on it I'll just detract from what I'm trying to express. 

Madras

Do you work on one or more pieces at a time?
Rarely. I may walk away from one for a night, but I can't start a new piece without seeing it through. If it's not working, I normally will scrap it and start anew.

How can our readers find and purchase your art?
My Instagram is @mtricig. Please dm for any inquiries. 

Concourse Drive

All photos courtesy and copyright Michael Ricigliano