A local artist was spotted today creating an oil painting of the beloved Key Food grocery store located at the intersection of Avenue A and Fourth Street in Manhattan's East Village. Steve Cosentino, the artist behind the work, was found painting at the southwest corner of the busy intersection, capturing the essence of what many locals fondly call "the Palace of Versailles of the East Village."
The oil painting represents Cosentino's artistic interpretation of the neighborhood grocery store that has become an iconic fixture in the East Village community. Key Food's reputation as the "Palace of Versailles" reflects its significant role in the local community and the affection residents have for this everyday establishment.
Cosentino's artistic process was temporarily interrupted by changing light conditions, which are crucial for oil painting work. As the natural lighting shifted throughout the day, the artist made the decision to pack up his materials and equipment for the day, demonstrating the technical considerations that plein air painters must navigate when working outdoors.
The painting remains a work in progress, with Cosentino planning to return to the same location soon to complete his artistic vision. This ongoing project highlights the intersection of fine art and everyday urban life, as the artist transforms a common neighborhood grocery store into a subject worthy of oil painting, elevating the mundane to the realm of fine art.
