Central Park

Anthony Benedetto, Central Park, 1998, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 2005.16, © 2000, Benedetto/Bennett
Copied Anthony Benedetto, Central Park, 1998, oil on canvas, 3660 in. (91.4152.4 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 2005.16, © 2000, Benedetto/Bennett

Artwork Details

Title
Central Park
Date
1998
Dimensions
3660 in. (91.4152.4 cm)
Copyright
© 2000, Benedetto/Bennett
Credit Line
Gift of the artist
Mediums Description
oil on canvas
Classifications
Subjects
  • Cityscape — New York — New York
  • Landscape — park — Central Park
  • Cityscape — New York — Manhattan
Object Number
2005.16

Artwork Description

In a city whose streets are lined with gigantic skyscrapers and teem with thousands of people, any sort of nature becomes a welcome escape for its citizens. Anthony Benedetto, better known as Tony Bennett, found inspiration in New York City's Central Park, where the possibilities of what to paint are limitless. Benedetto's dream of owning an apartment with a view of the park has been realized, and this scene is the view from his Manhattan window. It is a glimpse into the artist's private life, almost as if we are sitting at the window with him, looking out over the park. The morning light and crisp fall colors are inviting, but the cityscape hovers on the perimeter, reminding the viewer of what is outside this idyllic haven. The salvation from the busy city life is only temporary.

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