The artwork, titled “New York,” was created by Ben Shahn in 1947. This piece is part of the Expressionism and Surrealism art movements and is categorized as a symbolic painting. It is currently housed in the Jewish Museum located in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork is a profound and introspective piece that embodies Shahn’s unique artistic approach, blending expressionism’s emotive intensity with surrealism’s dreamlike qualities. The composition features an array of symbolic elements: a clock with distorted numbers hangs conspicuously, a large fish seemingly floats above the street, and a ghostly, skeletal figure swims through the scene. Dominating the right side of the painting is a stoic elderly man with a contemplative expression, donning a black hat. The background comprises muted hues of red and brown, enhancing the ominous and surreal atmosphere of the city setting. The juxtaposition of these various elements evokes a deep sense of contemplation and offers insights into the existential and societal themes Shahn explores in his work.