New York – New York

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Unmistakably New York City, late in the day, late in the year. Empire State Building, of course, and those ubiquitous roof top water towers typical of the New York City skyline. Something about this urban painting evokes the work of American realist painter, Edward Hopper (Editor’s note: maybe because Hopper paid particular attention to geometrical design and strong light; or maybe due to the way Hopper’s paintings highlight the seemingly mundane and typical scenes in our everyday life).

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In the 1800s, New York City required that all buildings higher than six stories be equipped with a rooftop water tower. As a result, giant storage tanks are a common sight in Manhattan. The original water tower builders were barrel makers who expanded their craft to meet a modern need as buildings in the city grew taller in height. Even today, no sealant is used to hold the water in. In modern times, the towers have become fashionable in some circles.

The Empire State Building, outlined in the background of this painting, is the world-famous 102-story landmark Art Deco skyscraper that is so entwined with the identity of New York City. Located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street, it stood as the world’s tallest building for more than 40 years, from its completion in 1931 until 1972.

019-005 keywords
New York, New York City, Manhattan, urban scene, Empire State building, urban atmosphere, architecture, city scape, watercolor, painting, fine art, urban light.