Join us for First Friday Scranton.

Nicholas Grunza 

ARTIST'S BIO

I got into photography/visual storytelling at a very young age, and over a decade and a half later I still find myself completely enthralled in it. Most of my photos depict nature, stunning architecture, and historically-rich places. 

By photographing such places, I hope to spread interest into the history of that which is captured; similar to the front cover of an enticing book. From small towns, to the busiest of cities, I aim to capture landscapes that leave a mark on me, in hopes they will do the same for those who view them.  

My goal with my photography is to make the viewer feel connected to the art. I tend to use bold, vibrant colors to emulate the feeling of optimism we all shared as children. As a child, the sun shone brighter, the grass grew greener, and the clouds became elephants and dragons. That’s the world I try to depict in my photos.  

Much like with photography, sometimes all we need is a change in perspective to really appreciate the world around us.  

I hope you enjoy my work, and I hope it brings you to a place of joy.

Joel Shambe

ARTIST'S BIO

“Working representationally, I strive to create narrative images. I enjoy combining elements of humor and satire while taking inspiration from the world around me.  

My intent is always to create images capable of inviting any viewer to stop and become, “part of” my work. I always hope that a relationship will develop between us: the painter and the viewer of painting and that it is a satisfying relationship“ -Joel Shambe  

A native of Northeast Pennsylvania, Mr. Shambe is a graduate of Luzerne County Community College and  The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. He has also studied privately at Studio Incamminati, and with Philadelphia painters, Carlo Russo and, the late, Patrick Connors.   

He has enjoyed several solo shows and has been contracted to produce artwork for several corporate and private collections, including the U.S. Army. His work appears in collections both in the U.S. and abroad.  Mr. Shambe is a veteran of both the United States Marine Corps and the U. S. Army 

Donnie Kirchner

ARTIST'S BIO

Donnie Kirchner began pursuing art quite randomly during the doldrums of the pandemic, first picking up a brush and painters knife in the summer of 2021. Since then, Kirchner has found his footing working with textures and found materials in the visual arts medium. While typically adhering to an earth-tone based color pallet, he stepped out of his comfort zone this summer with a collection inspired by 80’s hues with a macabre theme before returning to form with a showing of small works. This collection contains works from both showings (Death of the Party: Darkness in 80’s Hues and Drowning Lessons: Small Works) as well as a collaborative piece from a live performance with sonic artist Masoller and several new works. Kirchner lives outside of Wilkes-Barre with his wife, author V. Rendina 

Eric Lyoob

ARTIST'S BIO

My name is Eric Iyoob and I am a Cinematographer. Born and raised in Jessup, PA. My main choice of medium is analog film. All of my
projects are shot on either 16mm and/or 35mm motion picture film. I am really passionate about what I do. In a digital world, it's kind
of funny going back in time to a more tangible, and hands on format. During a film shoot, I find that shooting on film introduces
discipline when making visual decisions that can ultimately impact a story. Analog film represents the real world in an unfiltered way. It
possesses this organic and life-like nature, which in turn, produces beautiful and unique images that cannot be replicated in other ways.
It's what truly keeps me going.
A lot of my film work consists of music videos, short films, campaigns, and personal film projects. We recently shot our first short film
on Super 16mm film. As a Cinematographer, this was my first venture into short films in a narrative format. There were plenty of
obstacles along the way, including a low budget. Luckily, I had plenty of help from my friends, family, and experienced professionals in
the industry. Our most recent film, "Finding Yourself" highlights personal growth through the art process. It was a true blessing being
able to document Sachiko, and being welcomed into the world of canvas painting. I have to mention that this was shot on 35mm film. I
felt that the free flowing nature of the canvas painting would pair well with the unpredictable, and grainy nature of film.
I am driven by a strong work ethic, which I happily take from my parents. They are true rockstars and have always supported my pursuit
as a filmmaker. I don't know where I would be without their love and support, truly. My creative approach usually comes at random.
Music draws a lot of motivation, favorite films, and really just mood. I always challenge myself to just be the best version that I can be.
I want my visuals to be a representation of that. I find that being normal is boring, so I'm okay with being different. What's next? Music
video work, short films, maybe a feature? That's a hard one. I just want to keep the momentum going and to just embrace this journey.

Jamie Dougherty

ARTIST'S BIO

Jamie is a self-taught artist from Scranton, PA, who primarily works with acrylic paint on canvas. For Jamie, painting is more than just a creative pursuit—it is a deeply meditative practice, a means of processing emotions, and a journey of self-exploration through color and form.

This collection features eight unique paintings, each serving as a visual diary of Jamie’s personal growth. Every brushstroke tells a story, capturing a moment of resolution while preserving the layers of emotion and introspection that led to it. Look closely, and you'll find traces of the process—evidence of transformation, vulnerability, and the unspoken dialogue between artist and canvas.