I like a good checklist. In my opinion a good checklist (or punch list) is one of the most powerful tools a painter can have. It is both simple and reliable and helps us get stuff done!
So I decided to develop lists of locations that I'd like to paint in various regions throughout the locales I tend (or intend) to spend in. We recently spent a day in New York City as a way of celebrating the holidays. We were very fortunate to be in town during a period of unseasonably war weather -- it was a great day!
This brief trip inspired me to start creating a list of places I's like to paint in NYC.
New York City offers an incredible variety of locations for painting, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Here are 25 of the most interesting places to set up your easel. Plus some additional amazing spots I hope 🤞 to get to to paint someday:
Parks & Gardens
1. Central Park – Endless compositions are available here alone. Central Park is an obvious choice, but for good reason. Spanning 843 acres, it’s a paradise for plein air artists. From the peaceful Bethesda Fountain to the picturesque Bow Bridge and the vibrant Conservatory Garden, the park offers countless compositions. Don’t miss the Ramble for a more natural, woodland vibe or Sheep Meadow for open skies and cityscape backdrops.
2. The High Line – A mix of urban views, greenery, and architecture.
3. Brooklyn Botanic Garden – Vibrant flowers, serene ponds, and Japanese gardens.
4. Prospect Park – A less crowded alternative to Central Park with scenic landscapes.
5. Wave Hill (Bronx) – Stunning Hudson River views with lush gardens.
Waterfront Views
6. Brooklyn Bridge Park – Panoramic Manhattan skyline and the bridge itself. With stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a must-visit for artists. The park’s beautifully designed waterfront spaces and lush greenery provide a perfect balance of urban and natural elements. Sunset here is particularly magical, casting warm hues over the East River.
7. DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) – A mix of cobblestone streets and skyline views.
8. Gantry Plaza State Park (Queens) – many say this offers one of the best waterfront views of Midtown Manhattan.
9. South Street Seaport – Historic ships, cobblestone streets, and modern skyscrapers.
10. Roosevelt Island – A unique perspective of the city, especially from Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park.
Iconic Landmarks
11. Times Square – Bright lights, bustling crowds, and towering billboards.
12. Flatiron Building & Madison Square Park – Classic NYC architecture with beautiful surroundings.
13. The Vessel at Hudson Yards – A modern architectural marvel with geometric patterns.
14. Statue of Liberty (From Battery Park or Staten Island Ferry) – An iconic American symbol with great framing possibilities.
15. Grand Central Terminal – Interior and exterior scenes full of movement and stunning architecture.
Cultural & Artistic Hubs
16. The Met Cloisters – Medieval-inspired gardens and stone architecture.
17. Greenwich Village – Quaint townhouses, jazz clubs, and lively streets.
18. Chinatown – Vibrant street markets, neon signs, and cultural charm.
19. Little Italy – A mix of historic storefronts and colorful murals.
20. Coney Island – Classic boardwalk nostalgia with bright amusement park colors.
Hidden Gems
21. Washington Mews – A picturesque, European-style street near Washington Square Park.
22. Snug Harbor Cultural Center (Staten Island) – Historic buildings, gardens, and waterfront views.
23. Brooklyn Heights Promenade – A peaceful setting with stunning cityscape views.
24. St. Patrick’s Cathedral - Gothic architecture in the heart of Midtown.
25. The Whispering Gallery at Grand Central – An intriguing, atmospheric interior location.
Additional NYC locations I’d like to paint…
Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village is alive with energy and character. The iconic arch, lively street performers, and vibrant mix of people make it an exciting spot for plein air painting. Set up near the fountain to capture the dynamic heart of the park or find a quieter corner to focus on the surrounding architecture.
Governors Island
Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, Governors Island offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The island features historic buildings, rolling lawns, and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and Statue of Liberty. It’s an ideal spot for artists seeking tranquility and inspiration.
Bryant Park
Nestled in Midtown, Bryant Park offers a perfect blend of urban and natural elements. The park’s manicured gardens, iconic chairs, and backdrop of skyscrapers create a unique atmosphere. In the winter, the ice-skating rink adds another layer of charm for seasonal paintings.
Battery Park
Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park offers breathtaking waterfront views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The park’s peaceful gardens and pathways make it a great spot for plein air painting, especially in the early morning when the light is soft and the crowds are minimal.
Prospect Park
Designed by the creators of Central Park, Prospect Park in Brooklyn is another gem for plein air painters. Highlights include the Long Meadow, the charming Boathouse, and the tranquil Prospect Park Lake. The park’s diverse landscapes provide plenty of variety for artists.
Trinity Church:
Historic Episcopal church & cemetery where Alexander Hamilton & other early Americans are buried.
Yankee, Stadium, and surrounding areas in the Bronx:
I’ve been a Yankee fan since I was three years old so the nostalgia and history associated with the New York Yankee organization is won that I’d like to spend some time, capturing in paints.
Conclusion
New York City is a playground for plein air artists, offering a mix of iconic landmarks, green spaces, waterfront views and interesting people.
These locations offer a mix of natural beauty, architectural grandeur, and urban energy, making NYC an endless source of inspiration for painters. Which one stands out to you the most?
Comentários