Sal graduated Leonardo Da Vinci Art School, School of Industrial Arts and Pratt Institute. Served with the U.S. 5th Army during World War II as an interpreter in Italy.

Following the war, Sal worked as a Commercial Art Director for various studios in NYC and was an active member of the American Watercolor Society and the Salmagundi Club.

He received 160 art awards for his realistic and abstract paintings.

Following his calling for service, in 1962 Sal received a direct commission as a U.S. Naval Reserve Officer and served as a Navy Combat Artist.