MANCHESTER, Conn – A man from Manchester living with Parkinson’s is breaking down barriers with his artwork. Since his diagnosis 14 years ago, Norman Greenstein has made painting a passion and a lifestyle for himself, and it has even helped others along the way.

As his hands and legs shake from his battle with Parkinson’s disease, Greenstein, a father and grandfather who lives in Manchester, says the painting is what has sustained him as he battles his illness .

“Having art as a hobby or profession; it relaxes me to paint, ”said Greenstein. Greenstein is now called “the painter of Parkinson’s”.

Greenstein’s work has been shown in Manchester, both at Town Hall and, currently, at The Work Space on Main Street, which includes a well-appointed gallery among its other amenities.

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Chronicle of his experiences, Greenstein wrote a book and launched the Parkinson’s Painter website, where his works can be viewed and purchased.

Stacey Zackin, Head of WorkSpace hosted Greenstein’s works in the gallery.

“It makes you think and makes you feel,” Zackin said of Norman’s art. “We love that people are inspired. “

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Gabe Greenstein, Norman’s son, is part of the team of family and friends who have all come together to help with the support and marketing of “The Parkinson’s Painter”.

Parkinson’s Painter’s website not only sells Norman’s artwork – which carries price tags of up to $ 20,000 per painting – but also t-shirts, stickers, cell phone cases and the Greenstein’s book titled “Spit on A Canvas: The Journey of a Parkinsonian Painter”.

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“It has become a full-fledged family project. It’s really exciting to see how many people in the community are inspired by my dad and all the people he brought together, ”Gabe said.

Norman, an Air Force veteran who has worked in the world of nonprofit foundations, insists he will continue to paint and try to inspire other Parkinson’s patients to fight against their disability.

“It’s a simple message; don’t give up, do what you can, then do more, ”said Greenstein.

Ten percent of the proceeds from each sale of Norman paintings goes to Michael J Fox Foundation and at the American Parkinson’s Disease Association (APDA)

To learn more about “The Parkinson’s Painter” and to view more of Norman’s artwork, click here.

Jimmy Altman is a reporter for FOX61 News. He can be contacted at [email protected]. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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