Bronx-born Charles was interested in art in high school and enjoyed working on holiday projects in art class. He studied at Hunter College in the 1960s, during which time he continued painting in acrylic and oil. He went on to study optometry and recently retired from his career as an optometrist. He now pursues art and acting, and enjoys collaborating on creative projects with his wife Gayle. Says Charles, "We greatly appreciate the opportunity that Fountain House Gallery provides us to share our passion."