“I have to have eye candy,” says Gene Todaro, proprietor of Marcello’s Wine Bar Café. Todaro is a self-described collector, but not a major one, he says. “I find that art is good as an escape. It is provocative. I like thought-provoking visuals.” That’s why Todaro isn’t afraid to spend a little on art like those he is pictured with at Ann Connelly Fine Art on Perkins Road for himself and for the walls of his wine bar. But Todaro believes art is more than just good for adorning the walls, he also thinks the act of creating it is an important way to provide an outlet for troubled youth. “I think it improves the community,” he says. “It is a good avenue for youth to express themselves in a positive way. I think art is overlooked to get their point and their feelings across in a positive way.” For the full Q&A with Todaro, click here. Here is a sample.
What is the greatest personal or professional obstacle you’ve overcome?
It’s a work in progress but my ego and impatience have been my biggest obstacles.
