The artwork titled “Top of Radio City, New York City” was created by John Marin in 1937. The medium used for this piece is a combination of watercolor and charcoal, reflecting the Expressionism art movement. This cityscape painting captures the essence of urban architecture through abstract forms and vivid hues.
In this artwork, the viewer is presented with a dynamic and somewhat abstract depiction of the top of Radio City in New York. The composition features bold and sweeping strokes that convey energy and motion, typical of Expressionist works. The buildings appear to lean and twist, suggesting the bustling and ever-changing nature of the city. The interplay of light and dark colors, along with the use of charcoal to outline forms, creates a sense of depth and structure amidst the seeming chaos. The artist’s skillful use of watercolor brings a fluidity and softness to the scene, contrasting with the rigid lines of the urban landscape. The cloudy sky above further enhances the mood, adding a layer of atmospheric complexity to the overall composition.