New York City 01 by Dominique James on Zatista.com

New York City is one of the most recognized cities in the world. It’s one of the most diverse and powerful cities as well. The city’s iconic architecture has been the subject of many forms of artwork since its founding in the early 1600s, and that continues up to the present day.

Night Empire by Jennifer Childs on Zatista.com

Whether it’s the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, or the famous Flatiron Building, New York is home to countless examples of stunning engineering feats that are also works of art in themselves. They are all testament to the city’s strength and perseverance and the range of cultures and backgrounds of its inhabitants throughout its history. The Manhattan skyline provides a unique panorama of old and new, extravagant and modest.

Flatiron by Jeremy McKane on Zatista.com

As in many other great urban centers, alongside the stone and steel structures and often creating necessary sanctuaries in the midst of busy city life, beautiful parks and gardens exist which were created by some of the best designers of public green spaces. Frederick Law Olmsted, whose establishment in the 19th century of “landscape architecture” introduced a new way of thinking about green spaces which brought together form and function and served the needs of both the local people and the natural environment. Central Park and Prospect Park are two of his greatest accomplishments.

Brooklyn Bridge by David Hoffman on Zatista.com

These contrasts and harmonies of architectural and natural beauty have always been appealing to artists. In fact, some artists have made their careers and signature style based on their connection to or their images of the city. But for all of the paintings, photographs and other visual tributes to the city that have been made over the years, New York, with all its moods and faces is still an inexhaustible source of inspiration.

Brian Sylvester is a guest blogger on WallSpin, and an artist on Zatista.