Union Square Park

Greenery, art, produce, memorials, politics and more...


"Union Square"
Oil on canvas
24 x 24 inches

Something a little different today, a street scene. I recently completed this view of the southern end of Union Square Park, a major hub from 14th to 17th Street. A wonderful farmer's market takes place on the northern end several days a week with the southern end filled with tables and booths of crafts and the like. While I was working on this painting there was some discussion in city government circles about the possible need to limit the amount of street vendors/artists allowed to set up shop in this park as well as in other areas of the city. An ongoing debate. Union Square drew thousands of people together in protest during the Civil War and then again to memorialize and mourn just after 9/11. Back in the bad old 1970's, you were wise to steer clear of Union Square as it was a dirty and dangerous area. Today, the park and the surrounding streets are bustling all the time. I honestly believe that 14th Street between Fourth Avenue and University Place is congestion central. All those NYU students among others. But, it does make for a lively neighborhood to be sure, and I'm glad that Union Square Park has come through the dark times of former years to be a very pleasant place today.