Philip Idone Of East Hampton Dies February 17

Philip Idone died February 17, 2020, at his home in New York City, following a short illness. He was 77.

Mr. Idone graced every environment in which he lived with his wit, charm, and warmth, survivors said. He prepared fine food for his friends and family from recipes of his own and those he adapted from travels in Italy, where he studied the great museum artworks, but also the art in the kitchens. In the late 1970s, Mr. Idone had run one of New York’s trendy restaurants, Wise Maria in Soho, named for Maria the Wise, a 15th century alchemist.

An artist and sculptor, he excelled through his art in making a statement about his vision and the world around him. He freely shared his art with those who were dear to him. In his larger pieces, and later work, he paid homage to nature and its inherent shapes and colors, while striving to capture the fine architecture and nuance of the unique landscapes near his home in East Hampton. In that, he exceeded even his own ambitions. As an artist, he also collaborated, or created art and studio space for, among others, Robert Rauschenberg, Lucas Samaras, Robert Indiana, Claes Oldenburg and Mark Rothko, in the 1960s and 1970s.

Mr. Idone is survived by his wife, Mayda; daughter Alexis; his brothers, Peter of Massachusetts and Mark of Pennsylvania; and a sister, Carol of Switzerland.

A memorial service is planned for the spring.

Memorial donations may be made to the Innocence Project.