Phyllis Sanfiorenzo is a Painter and Sculpture artist, born of Puerto Rican Parents and raised in East Harlem, N.Y. Growing up she wanted to follow in her mother's foot steps, the late visual artist Ivonne Salaberrios. From early on, Phyllis exhibited artistic talent and was chosen one out of two children from East Harlem to workshop at the Metropolitan Museum.
After acquiring a basic art education at the High School of Art & Design and at Fashion Insitute of Technology, she married and raised two children. During this time she periodically designed and exhibited art for various individuals, at F.I.T., the Peoples Garden, and a Solo Calendar.
Phyllis is also an accomplished theater actress and has appeared in television and film projects spanning two decades. In 2007 she co-produced, wrote, directed and acted in a theatre festival presentation presenting performers of Latino heritage which debuted Off-Broadway and toured to the Berkshires.
A few years ago, Phyllis returned to continuing studies at The New School, School of Visual Arts and studies sculpture at the Arts Students League. As an emerging Visual Artist, she has worked on portraiture in both Painting and Sculpture, designed illustrations for various theatrical productions, and is at present accepting Portrait commissions.
Her current studio work objective is to foster community enrichment and pride among the various common native latino descendents. Her work reflects the aspirations, pain, love, history, spirituality, and the gritty realities we all face.
