On view through February 28th, 2014 Muriel Taub Glantzman's dynamic jazzy paintings will be on display in the Great Room of Mulbery Street Library. I had the privilege of visiting the artist in her Upper West Side studio. I spoke with Muriel about her work.

How long have you been painting?

About 70 years.

Where and with whom did you study?

I first studied with Moses Soyer in 1941-2. I attended Parsons school of Design and received an Associates Degree in Interior Design in 1945. I took classes with Larry Rivers, Helen Frankenthaler, Leland Bell, and Nell Blaine in the 1950s.

What drew you to Abstract Expressionism?

I do not consider myself an abstract expressionist. I work with non-representational imagery. I start with out a preconceived idea; it is like improvisational jazz. If you look at my paintings and analyze the abstract forms that make up the design and composition of the painting, shapes, forms, colors, are the basis of the painting.

Who and what are your greatest artistic inspirations?

Indian Painting, Early Italian Renaissance, such as Giotto and Fra Angelico, Islamic Art, Cezanne, and Gauguin.

Why did you want to show at The New York Public Library?

I am happy to show in a public institution where many people can see my painting that might never go to a gallery.