In a heartwarming tale of talent, passion, and familial bonds, Officer Joseph Funaro’s career at the Yale Police Department finds a unique connection to the vibrant artistry of his father, Joseph Funaro, Sr. The father-son duo’s intertwining paths have left an indelible mark on Yale University’s campus, where the elder Funaro’s artistic brilliance takes center stage.
Joseph Funaro, Sr., a seasoned artist and former full-time professor at Paier College of Art in Hamden, pursued his lifelong love for art, dedicating 40 years to teaching and creating captivating portraits. The unexpected link to Yale University began with an unveiling ceremony for a portrait of Carl Hansen from Quinnipiac University. Gloria McHugh, Executive Director of Alumni Affairs at Yale Law School, caught sight of Funaro, Sr.’s work and initiated a connection that would lead to a series of prestigious commissions.
Funaro, Sr.’s portfolio for Yale University boasts ten remarkable portraits, featuring influential figures such as former Yale Law School professors, judges, solicitor generals, and deans of Yale College. One of the standout pieces in his collection is a portrait of former President William Clinton.
Recalling the extraordinary opportunity, Officer Joseph Funaro shared the behind-the-scenes process of his father’s work on President Clinton’s portrait. The artist transformed a room in their home into a studio, utilizing ample natural light to capture the essence of the subject. Unlike previous portraits, professional photos of Clinton were provided for reference, creating a unique dynamic for the artist.
The connection came full circle for Officer Funaro when he had the chance to meet Mr. and Mrs. Clinton during an event on campus. “It was a full circle moment for me to introduce myself to him,” Funaro remarked, reflecting on the pride he felt in his father’s accomplishments.
While Officer Funaro chose a different career path in law enforcement, he took his father’s valuable advice to heart. “He always told me to find a job that will pay you a retirement and will pay you to do what you love,” Funaro shared. His commitment to community service led him to a 22-year tenure with the Yale Police Department.
A unique touch to his father’s legacy lies in Officer Funaro’s participation in the artistic process. Funaro, Sr. allowed his son to contribute by adding a paint stroke to many of his portraits. The younger Funaro expressed his pride in his father’s work, especially when encountering it during his police duties on campus.
In every stroke of paint and every call answered, the Funaro legacy lives on at Yale University. The story of a father’s artistic passion and a son’s dedication to community service weaves together in a tapestry of inspiration for generations to come.
