July, 2026 CAVARTS Spotlight Feature #5: Charles Crivellaro
Charles served 21 years in the U.S. Army as Sergeant First Class before discovering a new creative passion in retirement. A self-taught acrylic painter for the past decade, Charles draws inspiration from love, family, friendship, and the joy found in everyday life.
His featured works, Retirement Years and Flowers, celebrate enduring love and the meaningful connections that enrich our lives. Guided by memories, dreams, and a spirit of creativity, Charles views art as a source of physical, mental, and spiritual fulfillment—and a way to continue growing, learning, and sharing joy with others.
Name:
Charles Crivellaro
Branch of service:
U.S. Army
About:
Retired Sergeant First Class, U. S. Army Contracting Command with 21 years of service. Last duty station, Vicenza, Italy. Married with one Son and two grandchildren. I live in Largo, Florida. I’ve been painting for about 10 years as a self taught artist.
Title of Piece #1:
Retirement Years
Medium of Piece #1:
Acrylic
Meaning Behind Piece #1:
Together for 54 years and we’re still ‘falling’ in love
Piece #1:
Title of Piece #2:
Flowers
Medium of Piece #2:
Acrylic
Meaning Behind Piece #2:
True Love
Piece #2:
What inspires you to create art?:
Love, joy, friendships, my wife
What part of your life has benefited the most from your creative pursuits?:
Physical - mentally - spiritually, home and friends
Is it important for you to challenge yourself in your art? Tell us why or why not!:
Yes. Age improves creativity, memories expand full growth. Wishes do come true.
What is your process or ritual to get your creativity flowing?:
Dreams of the past and future. Inside, my spirit flows telling me to create.
What does CAVARTS mean to you?:
Friendship, camaraderie and the sense of belonging.
Our monthly theme is Veterans & Their Art, but Charles submitted this when we were celebrating The Business of Art and Winter Photography. Here’s what he had planned:
- The Business of Art: Moving to a new living place to experience new forms of art.
- Winter Photography: Christmas spirit and happiness
What words of inspiration do you have for your fellow CAVARTists?:
Always challenge yourself. Be all you can be!!! 🙂Trust in yourself. Be happy.
