Across Central Park
Datec. 1929 - 1931
Mediumwatercolor and gouache over graphite and ink on paper
DimensionsSight: 13 × 18 1/2 inches (33 × 47 cm)
Framed: 20 5/8 × 26 1/8 × 1 inches (52.4 × 66.4 × 2.5 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight H. Emanuelson.
Object number1984.4.2
Copyright© Estate of Gifford Beal.
The images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis scene is one of the favorite subjects of artist Gifford Beal, Central Park. His high vantage point provides a long and wide view of the south end of the park that contrasts to the sheer cliffs of architecture surrounding it. He used the simple materials of a sketch: brown paper, pencil, ink, and watercolor. Quick marks are the artist’s shorthand for the people and automobiles coming and going in the park. Washes of light yellow and strokes of rich blue evoke the lush greenery of trees. Broad passages of light blue and white in the skies, and the breath the paper takes between these suggest that this is a day of full sun and gracious breezes.
Subject MatterCentral Park, New York City, New York, United States of America