Meet Harold Shomo

Artist Biography

Harold SHOMO, known locally and professionally as “Shomo”, is a multifaceted artist and craftsperson whose career spans several decades and geographies, from the East Coast to the Caribbean. Originally from Red Bank, New Jersey, Shomo established himself as a visionary in fine craft before relocating to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, where he has continued to expand his artistic legacy and influence throughout the region.

Professional Foundation in Red Bank

Shomo's professional journey began with the establishment of “Creator’s Will”, a high-end craft gallery located on Broad Street in Red Bank, New Jersey. Operating for 12 years, the gallery served as both a retail showroom and a hub for custom design services, specializing in all facets of stained glass work alongside other artisanal crafts. This enterprise encompassed retail operations, wholesale distribution, and bespoke custom design orders across all mediums, establishing Shomo's reputation for quality, innovation, and client-centered design in the Northeast before he embarked on a new chapter in the Caribbean.

Caribbean Expansion and Shomo Art Studios

In 1993, Shomo relocated to St. Thomas and founded Vivid Image, a venture that evolved into the present-day Shomo Art Studios. This establishment has become a creative hub offering workshops, classes, and artist studio space while continuing to produce commissioned works and custom pieces across multiple disciplines.

Community Involvement and Major Commissions

As a charter member of the St.Thomas/St.John Woodworkers Society, Shomo has contributed significantly to the region's artistic community and cultural development. His notable commissions include major ecclesiastical projects that have shaped the islands' architectural and artistic landscape.

Among his most significant works is the replacement of the rose windows at the historic All Saints Cathedral following hurricane Marilyn damage, a restoration project that required both technical mastery and artistic sensitivity. Additionally, Shomo was commissioned by the Virgin Islands government to create stained glass windows and doors for the Eastern Cemetery Cathedral, further establishing his role as a trusted artisan for significant public projects.

Beyond religious institutions, Shomo's work graces numerous private residences,upscale rental villas and commercial businesses throughout the Caribbean. His portfolio extends internationally, including custom church windows in Trinidad and Tobago and bespoke projects for prominent corporate clients. His diverse clientele reflects the quality and prestige associated with his name throughout the region.

## Contemporary Practice and Specialization

Today, Shomo specializes in custom mahogany furniture design and fabrication, drawing upon decades of refined craftsmanship and artistic vision. He maintains an inventory of premium mahogany slabs and actively accepts commissions from new clients seeking unique, heirloom-quality pieces that combine functionality with artistic expression.

His contemporary approach seamlessly integrates authentic, modern, and contemporary design sensibilities, creating functional art designed to endure for generations. Working with clients to realize their vision, Shomo applies his proven skills and technical expertise to produce masterpieces that reflect both personal taste and timeless craftsmanship.