Local Artist Henry DiSpirito’s Legacy to Continue

The family of Henry R. DiSpirito, a local artist, recently gave the New York State Historical Association and Fenimore Art Museum a major gift consisting of Henry’s artwork, personal papers and various sculpting tools.  “This collection represents a remarkable treasure trove of American art relating to an important New York State Artist.  DiSpirito’s sculpture and papers provide an unparalleled insight into his life and career in Utica,” said Dr. PaulD’Ambrosi, president of the museum. The Fenimore Art Museum in Cooperstown is in the process of publishing a book on the life and works of Mr. DiSpirito, which should be completed in the Spring of 2013.

St. Elizabeth Medical Center is fortunate to have two pieces of Mr. DiSpirito’s sculpture.  One piece is carved in wood of Padre Pio and is located outside the Medical CenterChapel.  The second piece of sculpture is of stone and is located in the convent.  The piece was purchased and donated to Sister Rose Vincent, former President, CEO of St.Elizabeth Medical Center. The piece is called “The Nun”. 

Theresa DiSpirito, one of his daughters, made arrangements for the books photographer and project director to visit the Medical Center in the Fall to take pictures of the pieces located here to be included in the book.

Henry DiSpirito was born in 1898 in Castelforte, Italy, andcame to America in 1921 where he began work as a stone mason.  He studied sculpture at the School of Art, Munson-Williams-Proctor Institute from 1941 - 1943. He will always be known for his love of art and the beauty he presented in clay, wood, stone or oil colors. His art has been widely recognized and acclaimed.