Tom Varano brought his high-energy performance, “Emotion into Art,” to the Navesink Rooms on Feb. 25. The event, presented by Student Life & Activities, showcased Varano’s ability to create large-scale portraits of iconic figures in minutes.

Using his fingertips, palms and a variety of brushes, Varano transformed a 4-foot by 5-foot canvas into a visual masterpiece. His movements synchronized with powerful music captivated the audience as each stroke built upon the last to reveal the final image.

“Art is not just about the final product; it’s about the journey and the emotion behind it,” Varano said. “I want people to feel something when they watch me paint, to connect with the process.”

Attendees expressed their admiration for the performance. “I’ve never seen anything like this before. The way he creates these portraits so quickly while being completely in sync with the music is incredible,” said Sarah Martin, a sophomore at the college. Another attendee, James Carter, added, “It was inspiring to watch. He makes it look effortless, but you can tell how much passion he puts into his work.”

Varano’s unique approach to speed painting combined art and entertainment, engaging spectators with a dynamic and immersive experience. His performance drew a crowd, with attendees watching as his rapid, expressive techniques brought each portrait to life.

The event highlighted the intersection of creativity and performance, demonstrating the impact of art in motion.