Site Lines: Lost New York, 1954–2022

Jill Gill is a New York-based artist and author who has captured the city's buildings and streetscapes in over 100 watercolour and ink paintings since the mid-1950s. Her work includes important and unimportant buildings, as well as those that have observed the changing city. Each scene is accompanied by text that blends research with first-hand observation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2023
Publisher: Oro Editions

Jill Gill, a native New Yorker, is a multifaceted artist and author who possesses a deep affection for the ever-evolving city. Since the mid-1950s, she has dedicated herself to capturing the architectural and urban landscapes of New York, particularly those that were on the brink of being lost to urban renewal. Her artistic journey has resulted in a remarkable collection of over 100 watercolour and ink paintings, showcasing the city's timeless charm and unique character.

The New York portrayed by Gill in her artwork is a captivating blend of classic cinema, vintage postcards, and hand-painted wall advertisements. The scenes in her series, titled "Site Lines: Lost New York, 1954–2022," span from Midtown South, where the artist resided from the mid-1940s to the mid-1960s, to the Upper East Side, where she and her family lived in a historic Rhinelander townhouse. Along her journey, she passes through Midtown, including iconic Fifth Avenue and the vibrant Theatre District, as well as the Upper West Side.

Gill's artistic vision extends beyond the prominent landmarks and iconic buildings. She includes in her work structures that may be considered ordinary but possess distinctive characteristics that make them unforgettable. These include the magnificent Helen Hayes Theater, the Art Deco Horn & Hardart Automat on 57th Street, and blocks of retail and commercial buildings that exude a unique charm. Moreover, Gill pays attention to buildings that have quietly observed the changing city, often evolving alongside it. Examples include St. Barts, the Villard Houses, and MoMA before it "ate" 53rd Street.

Each scene in Gill's artwork is accompanied by meticulously researched text that seamlessly blends first-hand observation with in-depth analysis. Through her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to capture the essence of New York's ever-changing landscape, Gill offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural significance. Her artwork serves as a testament to the enduring beauty and resilience of New York, a city that has captivated artists and enthusiasts alike for generations.

In conclusion, Jill Gill is a true inamorata of New York, a multifaceted artist and author who has dedicated her life to capturing the city's architectural and urban landscapes. Through her exquisite watercolour and ink paintings, she has preserved a visual record of New York's past and present, allowing us to appreciate the city's timeless charm and unique character. Gill's artwork serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to capture and preserve the essence of a city, and her dedication to preserving New York's heritage is truly commendable.

Weight: 1342g
Dimension: 250 x 263 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781957183695