The Daily Bulletin Archive

The Mayor of Strawberry Fields, a moving documentary by Buffalo-born filmmaker Torre Catalano, premieres tonight, August 27, at 6:30 p.m. in the Burchfield Penney Art Center at Buffalo State College.

The film chronicles the quirky life of a homeless man named Gary, who has been decorating John Lennon’s “Imagine” memorial in Central Park for the past 15 years with discarded petals from florists’ Dumpsters. The 40-minute documentary provides a moving look into the trials of homeless life in New York and the inspiration that only a true Beatles fan can understand. The film follows Gary, the self-proclaimed “mayor,” as he shares his artwork with thousands of people every day and faces both adversity and encouragement.

The event, which is free and open the public, includes a screening of the film, followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers and a champagne reception with live music from singer-songwriter John Ryan, the Rochester native whose original songs make up the film’s score.

Tickets are available by phone at 878-6011 during gallery hours.