A geometric origami creator, a comic book illustrator drawing the story of a man and his octopus, a woman who preserves mixed media with resin, a ventriloquist, a musical impressionist, and a 95-year-old Korean War Veteran opera singer  – these are just some of the talented constituents who were featured at Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr.’s Artist Showcase, which was held on October 26, 2025, at the Forest Hills Jewish Center.

The three-hour event was jam packed with more than two dozen musicians and still artists providing a feast for the senses that delighted everyone in attendance. Many were surprised that so much talent was located right in their own neighborhoods. Artists were able to connect with other artists, and the public was able to discover new talents.

Barry Feterman had the audience laughing with his amazing musical impressions of Elvis, the Bee Gees, Johnny Mathis, Willie Nelson and Julio Iglesias. Silk Feather Sun wowed the audience with original tunes and classic favorites like “Don’t Let Me Down,” by The Beatles. At age 17, Sarah Keane displayed incredible vocal range covering tunes by Katy Perry, Pat Benetar and Lady Gaga. 

Woodworker Casey O’Neil drew a lot of interest with his intricate carvings which included a Mickey Mouse inspired cabinet, pasta tools, and chuppah patterns. A chuppah is a ceremonial canopy used at Jewish weddings, 

Other participants in the showcase included: Steve Fisher (painter), Joanne Davis (ukulele player), Alicia Lo (origami), Amy Handy (mixed media), Sonia Aguila (canvas mounted photography), Jennifer Lambert (collage and freelance), Tom Haeberle (singer), William “Bill” Aiello (ventriloquism), Joseph “The Baron” Pastor, Valentina Battaglia (painter), Los Pitudos (musicians), William Wiggins (oil painting), Laura Litterello Mancini (abstract photo collages), Mike Gerlich (comic book illustrator), Yuki Hladky (Japanese calligraphy), Jiayi He (harmonica player), Lorine Bamberg (photography), Kaylin Roman (mixed media), and DARKRECONSTRUCTION (acrylic and watercolor painting).

“Thank you to everyone who participated in our second Artist Showcase. It was a truly inspiring afternoon and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rich talent within Senate District 15. I look forward to hosting our third Artist Showcase next year.”

Senator Addabbo also gave special thanks to the Forest Hills Jewish Center and it’s Office Manager, Laurie Worthman, and Executive Director, Donna Bartolomeo for their generosity in allowing the space to be used for this event, providing the perfect setting for a celebration of creativity and community. Also, thanks Silk Feather Sun, for providing the sound system for the musicians.