How to Paint a City | Inspired by New York

Learn how to paint a cityscape with acrylics inspired by New York City.  Artist Ashley Krieger is traveling and painting in all 50 U.S. states. Today she takes you to New York to capture the Statue of Liberty and New York City.  ​​Here you can learn how she painted this scene. 

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​Our family had the opportunity to visit New York. This was my first time I got to visit this BIG city. We only had a few days and at the top of the list was visiting the Statue of Liberty. It was a mix of emotions. Anticipation to see something so grand and beautiful. Frustrations with the crowds and towing two kids and a toddler. Disappointment knowing I couldn't paint plein air for this painting because of restrictions. I felt annoyed with the workers herding us like cattle and barking orders at us and sadness that no one acts friendly and so the atmosphere isn't what it could be.  

But then as a family, we learned so much here. Tears filled my eyes at Elis Island as I listened to the immigrant stories and I realized that what I felt here, was commonly felt at this place. The kids were captivated by the immigrant stories as well. Their hopes for opportunity, freedom, and kindness that didn't always greet them when they got to America.  We talked about our ancestors and the significance the Statue of Liberty may have been for them after their long journey and for those who see it as they come here.  It was worth it and more. 

The One World Trade Center was purposefully placed with the Statue of Liberty in this painting. I painted this together as a reminder of what we stand for as Americans. That our foundation of "Unalienable Rights....is Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness and that we say to the flag "Liberty and Justice for ALL." We are the leaders of democracy and the only thing that can take down America is ourselves if we forget liberty. 

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Learn How I Paint Cityscapes

You can find the acrylic art supplies use here. I also used metallic gold and silver Liquitex heavy body acrylic paints. Watch the tutorial to see what colors I used and when.

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