Paul Rosenberger 78 of Osceola had deep roots in the arts community
March 22nd, 2008, 8:38 pm Hobby Shops
Growing up in Pennsylvania, Rosenberger discovered his artistic talent at age of 8, according to Doris Rosenberger, his wife of 40 years. “From the time he was a kid, he would draw and paint and then just give it to whoever wanted it,” she said. “I finally had to tell him that he should be saving or selling at least some of his art.” Doris Rosenberger made an album of his paintings, which soon turned into dozens of albums. The collection contains a range of subjects, such as ocean scenes, animals and portraits. He had a special talent for painting tigers, and an uncanny way with portraits, she said. After retirement, Paul Rosenberger was able to devote more time to his hobby and got involved with the Osceola Center for the Arts and frequently took part in local art shows and festivals. When he started receiving requests from patrons, Rosenberger viewed his artistic responsibility to customers as a priority. “He would let people know right away if he could even create what they were asking for, and then he would guarantee his work,” Doris Rosenberger said. Satisfied customers referred their friends and commissioned him for additional projects. He was an advocate for Osceola’s Art in Public Places program, and some of his works are on permanent display at St. Cloud City Hall. Five of his pieces were purchased by the Osceola Center for the Arts to help expand its private collection. They include paintings from his “Music and Jazz” series. “Although Paul was an amazing photorealism artist, he also excelled with his later work in a modern impressionist style using broad strokes and vivid colors,” said Jules Davidson, director of visual arts at Osceola Center for the Arts. “I really love his later work, which is reflected in the pieces that we purchased.” A March 26 benefit will raise funds for local performer Laura Rhodes, who is battling breast cancer. The event will be at New Day Caf%26#65533; in St. Cloud and will feature live music and seven of Rosenberger’s pieces that are for sale. Rosenberger also is survived by his seven children: Brian K. Rosenberger of Homestead, Craig Rosenberger of Albrightsville, Pa., Derek Rosenberger of Waynesboro, Pa., Gary Rosenberger of Snellsville, Ga., and Rhonda LeBeau, Linda Ferreira and Paul G. Rosenberger, all of Warwick, R.I. All Faiths Funeral Alternatives and Cremation Service, Orlando, is handling arrangements. Katie Powalski can be reached at kpowalski@orlandosentinel.com or 407-540-3266.
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