Erik Laffer, a native of Upstate New York, is a self-taught artist who embarked on his artistic journey by venturing from his residence in Albany to the bustling streets of SoHo, New York. Among a multitude of other unrecognized artists, he showcased and sold his artwork directly to pedestrians – whether they were tourists or seasoned collectors. Often, he would spend weekends sleeping in his car in order to pursue his passion. Laffer’s early works were greatly influenced by the diverse styles and personalities he encountered in the SoHo district during that period. Additionally, the relationships he cultivated during those formative years played a significant role in shaping his artistic vision for the future.

Driven by unwavering determination, an unrelenting work ethic, and a steadfast commitment to his craft, Laffer quickly garnered a devoted following of collectors and transitioned his focus towards formal gallery exhibitions. Through his unyielding dedication to his art and his deep-rooted connections within the artist community, Laffer realized the need for a permanent base. This realization led to the establishment of the renowned Laffer Gallery, a fine art and custom framing gallery situated in Schuylerville, NY. With the unwavering support of his friends and family, Laffer has cultivated a central hub for emerging and established artists in the Saratoga area.

In homage to his humble beginnings, the inaugural exhibition at The Laffer Gallery in the summer of 2012 was aptly titled “SoHo Artists,” featuring three artists who played pivotal roles in Laffer’s early career: Guillermo Barreto, Tracy Barbosa, and Yuta Ishino.