Snapshot: The Talented Street Artist Who Captures the Heart of Boro Park

By BoroPark24 Staff

Almost every Boro Parker who has stepped onto 13th Avenue in recent years has seen him sitting on 47th Street, and in most cases, stopped to view his pieces of art.

Baruch Kocwin, who is in his 50s, moved to Boro Park about seven years ago, and has since then quickly become an iconic figure on the most popular shopping avenue in the area.

"My parents come from Radomsk, Poland. They were part of the Austrowitz family, who were well-known among Radomsker Chasidim," he shares, providing some details about his roots. "They also often visited the nearby town of Lelov to receive the blessings of the Lelover Rebbe z"l."

When asked about his first experience with a paintbrush, Baruch recalls a moment from his childhood that still resonates with him. At eight years old, he drew a portrait in Poland, and his father, with a bright smile, told him, "Baruch, you just drew something so beautiful!".

This message has stayed with him ever since, and he still remembers it now as he sits in the heart of Boro Park's bustling hub.

Baruch also has an art studio where he sometimes creates his art, and then packs his suitcase with pencils, paintbrushes, and other supplies, along with a small folding chair, to showcase and sell his work on 13th Avenue or in different neighborhoods.

"Rebbes are my favorite. I love taking a photo of someone who is admired by a client and bringing it to life with pencil and paper," he says, his passion evident as he sits surrounded by portraits of revered figures.

"I'm a lefty; my mind works a little differently than others'," he adds, explaining that this unique perspective helps him think outside the box while working on his art pieces.

Although he enjoys oil paintings, drawing sketches remains his favorite due to the speed and affordability which allows him to sell them at prices accessible to anyone on the street. Baruch also takes on special projects, such as the mechitzas in the magnificent Boyaner Shul, among many other neighborhood shuls.

While he spends most days of the week sitting on 13th Avenue, he invites everyone to come visit him, say hello, review his art, and perhaps be the next to have one of his works hanging at home.

photos by: Zevi Klein/BoroPark24