Recent Testimonials
A couple of years ago we went on a search to find a painting of the namesake of our parish church, Saint Sebastian. The endeavor left us rather disappointed to say the least. The artwork that we were encountering was simply not fit for a place of worship either in execution or in subject. We were nearing the end of our efforts and were ready to accept the idea of purchasing a mass produced piece of “art” when we came across Mr. Armusik.
To say the least, we were rather taken with Mr. Armusik’s work online, but that paled to seeing his work in person. Today we find ourselves not with a simple representation of our patron saint, but with a work of the highest quality filled with passion and an understanding of the subject matter that continues to awe new viewers and those like myself who see it on a daily basis.
We were so impressed that a second painting was commissioned without hesitation. I must say that not only is the work of the best standards, but Mr. Armusik is simply one of the easiest artists I have ever worked with. His estimates both in time and cost were honest and accurate, he responded readily to inquiries, he was open to discussions, and in all areas I found him to be a gentleman artist. I have absolutely no hesitations in recommending him to anybody.
The Rev. John A. Valencheck
pastor
Armusik introduces St. Elizabeth Ann Seton's spirituality with the dignity and accessibility typical of his work. Especially manifest in this painting are Mother Seton's thoughtful reflection, the careful consideration she gave to her conversion, and the stark intensity of her devotion to Christ above the comforts and adornments to which she was born.
Fr. David Poecking, Pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Carnegie, PA
I met Eric in the fall of 2003. I had the opportunity to visit his home and see his work and studio first hand. I was taken with him and two of his pieces immediately. I purchased them the following year in July 2004. I became friends with him and his family. We have been close ever since...
Over the years, I have seen Eric grow. His work has never ceased to move me and that is why I now have eight of his pieces. It is rare for me to cry when I see a painting but not rare when it comes to Eric’s work.
I love the emotion in his work. I love its complexity and depth and he was the natural choice to paint a portrait dedicated to my late partner, Bart Rush.
I lost Bart suddenly in the winter of 2011. I had taken a photograph of him the previous summer and showed it to Eric. Somehow this photo, taken on a smart phone was able to be blown up to give Eric the ability to work with Bart’s image.
In short, Eric brought him back to life for me. He created a portrait that captured the essence of the man I loved and lost. His eyes sparkle and look out from the surface of the work with great intensity and great love and eternity.
How can you ever thank someone for bringing back someone you love? There is no answer to that.
Thank you Eric for many years of friendship. Thank you for giving me back the man I love and helping me to immortalize him.
I wish you great success!
Brian C. Smeal MD, FACS
My husband and I had often talked about having our picture taken with him in his deacon vestments. When he passed away in March of 2010, the possibility of that happening died with him. Then Eric gave me a post card advertising his Portrait Marathon and the idea became a reality. Through Eric's magic, he was able to paint Dick from a photograph and I posed. The result was amazing! My husband was alive again and standing next to me. It was a gift beyond words.
Gail
Hamburg, PA
After receiving an email about a 24 hour portrait marathon, I emailed my siblings about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our Dad's 83rd birthday present. I booked the first time slot and had our (deceased) Mother's portrait painted from a photo. Watching Eric create her image in just 2 hours was awesome!
I was so impressed that I requested the final time slot to have my Dad's portrait painted as well. Eric used 3 photos to create a fantastic likeness of Dad. When Dad opened it Christmas morning, his first response was "That looks like me." The portraits now hang together in his living room.
Eric's talents were unknown to me before the Portrait Marathon. Now I feel blessed that my Dad owns two pieces of his work, the first and last of Eric's world record Portrait Marathon.
Barb Stoner
Sinking Spring, PA