WILLIAM GAMBINI

I lived in downtown SD in a gutted out church on 10th with lots of other artists and marginal types. I'd see him and his artwork displayed in a store front around the corner. I got to be friends with him and I helped him move from downtown to a house in golden hill. His way of doing just about anything was unique and often aprouched as an art form. We'd smoke faro cigarettes, drink coffee, drive around in his orange van. That time as a 19 year old lost young man I'll never forget. His way...

Just found out about Bill's passing. A profound loss to our world.I studied with him in Fresh Meadows, Queens. Trying to get in touch with his wife with no success. My deepest condolences. Caroline Lembeck

I had seen some of Mr. Gambini's work at a gallery when I was in Seneca a few years ago. His work was different, but I could identify with it. I could feel the determinations of positivity escaping the darkness. The abstract painting I wanted was quite large. It would have taken up an entire wall, but I could have looked at it all day, it was so enlightening, to me. He was an abstract and figurative painter. There was also a painting of a man wearing a suite, who had no face. I also liked...

My late husband's partner in the antiques business, John Rich, was a friend and patron of Bill in the 1950's in New York- Through John Rich we obtained a wonderful collection of Bill's paintings, including a portrait of Mr. Rich- Bill was not only a great talent but also a truly good and generous human being- Louise O'Shaughnessy, Watkins Glen, NY

I just learned of Bill’s passing today. Life is diminished.
Love him forever. Hi Peg, Vittorio and Elizabeth.

My sweetheart Sandy & I enjoyed the pleasure of conversation, dinner, wine and a studio tour with Bill during our visit with Jim Murray in San Diego in 2002. I recall Bill's insightful awareness and presence to this day. His comments regarding the distinction between "original art" and "contrived art" rang true.

There are not enough words to describe the impact made by Bill Gambini in the art world. Not only was he an influential painter and superb colorist, he was a compelling teller of tales and always took the time to share freely his endless knowledge of art and paint. I first met Bill and Peg in the 90s on the steps of a downtown artist loft where I had just relocated. Unlike the unforgiving neighborhood we shared, they were hospitable and invited me over for a tour of the studio/workspace,...

Bill Gambini was truly a gentle soul, but also prodding, inquisitive, compelling, curious, and sincere. He referred to his work as historical, and would often mention Johann Goethe, Friedrich Nietzsche, Richard Wagner, Arthur Schopenhauer, Pablo Picasso, Paul Cezanne, Franz Kline, Joseph Campbell, Thomas Paine, Albert Camus, Buckminster Fuller, Abe Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Baruch Spinoza, John Kennedy, Barack Obama, Grandma Moses, Martin Luther, Michelangelo, Virginia Wolf, Buddha,...

It was a so good to see all the family at the reception. See you again at the retrospective in March, if not before. We treasure our works by Bill Gambini. Talked to Peg today. She is lucky to have the loving support of all of you. Condolences from all the Aliottis. Love, Kristen