Thursday, October 1, 2026
For over 60 years, photography has been a lifelong passion for Paul Oresky, whose work will be featured this month in the Art Alcove exhibition at the Freeport Recreation Center.
The exhibition exposes visitors to a collection of photographs that reflect Oresky’s love for travel, nature and the everyday moments that inspired him throughout his career.
Oresky spoke about the importance of art, and especially what it means to him to have his artwork on display.
“Art, in all its myriad forms, is meant to be shared and interpreted,” he said. “The opportunity to have my photographic art displayed for visitors to the Long Island Council of the Arts at Freeport’s Art Alcove Exhibition space at the Freeport Recreation Center is both an honor and a privilege.”
Oresky’s journey as a photographer began in the spring of 1965, after a friend introduced him to the magic of developing photographs in a darkroom.
“A friend interrupted my work on a college term paper with a promise to show me some magic,” he wrote in a personal biography.
Watching an image slowly appear on photographic paper left a lasting impression on him. “I promised myself that I would acquire a darkroom as soon as possible,” he wrote.
Within weeks, he had built one in his parents’ basement, investing nearly all of his savings before even owning his first camera.
Over the years, Oresky photographed wildlife, landscapes, architecture and street scenes while traveling throughout the nation, primarily the western states.
His passion for photography led him on adventures ranging from road trips to Alaska to hikes with camera equipment. Although he considered pursuing photography as a professional career, he ultimately chose to remain an educator while continuing photography on the side.
“The difficulties of finding work and selling images resulted in my decision to pursue photography alongside my career as an educator,” Oresky wrote. “I believe it was the correct choice for me.”
His photographs have appeared in publications including “A History of Long Island: From Ocean to Empire,” a Reader’s Digest of national parks and Studio Photography magazine.
Today, he continues creating images using professional Sony cameras as well as his Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
When asked about his favorite photographs, Oresky explained that choosing one would be nearly impossible.
“I do have favorite pieces, but they are too numerous to list here,” he wrote. “I like my work. That’s why I show it.”
The Art Alcove exhibition gives residents a chance to experience that work firsthand, showcasing images shaped by decades of exploration, dedication, curiosity and travel.
Oresky is also an active member of the South Shore Camera Club, where he previously served as president, and the Oceanside Library Photo Club.
Even after more than 60 years behind the camera, he continues to create new work and share it with individuals across Long Island.
