DOMESTIC NEW YORK | 2006-2019

Anthropomorphically informed New York landmarks engaged in human activities. Words and Images by Sal Cosenza.

Domestic New York : The Bed of Roses
Domestic New York : The Bed of Roses

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2019 | SOLD

Was it all a bed of roses?

Well, yes and no, but one supposes

it had its ups and it had its downs

days to laugh and nights to frown.

These Lovers sought each other but closed their trip as friends

though who’s to say, my friend, what really happens in the end?

Seven solid years were they, when their hearts were young and gay

until the roses turned to gray, and they kindly kissed their dreams away.

But at the notion you’re supposin’

things are more or less the same,

it can be truly said the past is dead

and the future still remains.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Domestic New York : Roses Never Lie
Domestic New York : Roses Never Lie

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2016 | SOLD

Her eyes travel to what she had to see.

The Rose.

Basking in a glow of focus, there it lies, and Chrysler Building recalls the wonder and the romance of it all.

But whether or not it contains any life beneath a mountain of memories remains to be known.

While fresh roses pour in, delivered by captains of commerce and industry, our tower is stricken by times that were.

The writing never left the wall.

That despite their rise and despite their fall, maybe there is a tomorrow after all.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Domestic New York : Monday Morning, 8 A.M.
Domestic New York : Monday Morning, 8 A.M.

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2016

It’s a horn. It’s a honk.

It’s a shout. It’s a moan.

It’s the squeal of the cab, or the smog of the smoke.

It’s the trash. It’s a heap.

It’s the dumps. It’s debris.

It’s a path you won’t like but one you should see.

Spilled drinks. Crushed cups. It’s the least of your woes.

Packed crowds. Red lights.

It’s the promise of no.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Domestic New York : Shrink-Wrapped!
Domestic New York : Shrink-Wrapped!

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2016 | SOLD

"So, is there anything you’d like to talk about this morning?”

The suited, seated stranger injects the question with trite repetition.

For better or worse, Empire State Building’s turn on the hot seat had begun.

But how he got there and who’s at fault are unimportant, for the beginning and the end tell the same sad tale.

This Former Zenith! This Eighth Wonder! This King of Kongs!

Reduced to a couch.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Domestic New York : The Other Side
Domestic New York : The Other Side

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2016 | SOLD

The prey is in full view, caught in his own gaze.

Formerly composed, Empire State Building is now spellbound by the predator’s images.

All the while, the tower erodes on par with his domestic surroundings; his inner turmoil piled high like a mountain of dirty laundry.

Order. Upkeep. A love undone.

These are the visuals our crumbling Empire is forced to confront.

But as infrastructure corrodes and permanence gives way, who are we to stop it?

‘Tis better, perhaps, to simply let it all happen.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Domestic New York : The Cliffhanger
Domestic New York : The Cliffhanger

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2016 | SOLD

Snow blankets a cityscape of pointed tops and towering peaks.

Strange and mysterious monuments are they.

Alas, the lonesome-hearted building ascends beyond the winter’s haze, denying the searchlights of their prize.

“So vast is my Gotham, yet so small am I,” Empire State Building proclaims to the empty lines below.

He sits a thousand feet up with no place to go, chrome eagles dividing him between the here and the hereafter.

For him, it is altitude that renders a city at once beautiful and haunting, dear to hold but eligible to be let go.

So boundless are his choices from these soaring cliffs!

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Domestic New York : The Humanity of Clowns
Domestic New York : The Humanity of Clowns

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2016 | SOLD

The Clown applies his face hastily, for the hungry City beckons.

A performer made into self-parody; a public commodity to be devoured.

“Make ‘em laugh,” the City barks, “lest they forget you.”

“Smile,” the City warns, “in lieu of your anguish.”

Perform he must, and perform he does, painting his sorrow as joy.

But the Clown is hopeful, for somewhere beneath the layers, his own humanity remains.

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Domestic New York : The Fregoli Delusion
Domestic New York : The Fregoli Delusion

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2015 | SOLD

In a world of delirium, only mirrors know the truth.

Whether here or there, Empire State Building remains haunted by her likeness.

Delusion.

Desire.

Who are these veiled intruders masquerading as friends?

Choking in the smoke of Chrysler’s eternal aroma, his world is now a twisted reflection of what once was.

“Persecute me no more,” he painfully pines, but to no avail.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Domestic New York : The Song Is Ended
Domestic New York : The Song Is Ended

Mixed Media on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2015 | SOLD

Theirs is a fairytale gone too soon.

The Lone Building sits in a daze now, endlessly pondering why and how.

Brandy and cigarettes locked and loaded, he realizes what a long, long night it will be.

“Where is she?” he wonders aloud to walls once teeming with the sounds of two voices.

A blue world suddenly relegates Empire State Building to the hot seat, forcing him to come to terms with himself, with her, and with the cold winter that lies precariously at his doorstep.

All he has now to prove it ever was is a note of cold finality, and a scar or two.

These kinds of tests are the hardest to pass.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Domestic New York : Take Care of That Thing
Domestic New York : Take Care of That Thing

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2015 | SOLD

At a quarter past nine, the Gangsters arrive with unchallenged ownership.

Cool. Calm. Connected.

At the center sits Empire State Building, the Boss.

Il Padrone.

Flanking him are The Trump and GE Buildings, a couple of cronies from the neighborhood, but don’t mention I just called them that.

No bartender dares collect the gratuitous twenty, as drinks, for these guys anyway, are always on the house.

They talk equal parts business and baseball; swallowing fine cigars and booze like kids in some candy store.

The rest of us just have another drink and wonder where we went wrong in life.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Domestic New York : A Towering Romance
Domestic New York : A Towering Romance

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2015 | SOLD

The Lovers embrace over a surrendering sun.

Exuberant and unafraid, they crash into each other violently, exchanging no words.

Two icons of the city, committing unfiltered and imperfect bliss amidst the theatrical setting that bore them.

Chrysler and Empire State. Fire and Ice are they.

These kindred spirits, craving each other with such unaware bravado that the whole city must look up in jealous wonder.

Zeppelins fly high! Searchlights shred the sky above!

Alas, nothing could reach our two Goliaths.

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Domestic New York : For The Record
Domestic New York : For The Record

Acrylic on Canvas | 12in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2015 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : She Was Bad, She Was Dangerous
Domestic New York : She Was Bad, She Was Dangerous

Acrylic on Canvas | 12in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2015 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : We're Getting Off Here
Domestic New York : We're Getting Off Here

Watercolor & Ink on Paper| 19in. x 25in. x .125in. | 2014 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Liberty's Upkeep
Domestic New York : Liberty's Upkeep

Acrylic on Canvas | 30in. x 40in. x 1.5in. | 2013 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Around The World, Part VII
Domestic New York : Around The World, Part VII

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 10in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Around The World, Part VI
Domestic New York : Around The World, Part VI

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 10in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Around The World, Part V
Domestic New York : Around The World, Part V

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 10in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Around The World, Part IV
Domestic New York : Around The World, Part IV

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 10in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Around The World, Part III
Domestic New York : Around The World, Part III

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 10in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Caught In The Act
Domestic New York : Caught In The Act

Acrylic on Canvas | 14in. x 18in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

Watch a video on this piece HERE.

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Domestic New York : Around The World, Part II
Domestic New York : Around The World, Part II

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 10in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Around The World, Part I
Domestic New York : Around The World, Part I

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 10in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : In VistaVision!
Domestic New York : In VistaVision!

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : The Empire Hotel
Domestic New York : The Empire Hotel

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2012 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : A Chance of Snow
Domestic New York : A Chance of Snow

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2011 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Buildings on the Run
Domestic New York : Buildings on the Run

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2011 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : You, Me, and the Sea
Domestic New York : You, Me, and the Sea

Acrylic on Canvas | 16in. x 40in. x 1.5in. | 2011 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : All Dressed Up with No Place to Go
Domestic New York : All Dressed Up with No Place to Go

Acrylic on Canvas | 14in. x 18in. x 1.5in. | 2011 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : The Main Event
Domestic New York : The Main Event

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 30in. x 1.5in. | 2011 | SOLD

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A Domestic New York Christmas
A Domestic New York Christmas

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 30in. x 1.5in. | 2010 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Bullets and Broads
Domestic New York : Bullets and Broads

Acrylic on Canvas | 16in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2010 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Bandits and Briefcases
Domestic New York : Bandits and Briefcases

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2010 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : What's a Pretty Building Like You Doin' in a Place Like This?
Domestic New York : What's a Pretty Building Like You Doin' in a Place Like This?

Acrylic on Canvas | 16in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2010 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Meet Me at the Diner. Ten Sharp.
Domestic New York : Meet Me at the Diner. Ten Sharp.

Acrylic on Canvas | 16in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2010 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : The Life Cycle
Domestic New York : The Life Cycle

From Left to Right :

Planning | Acrylic on Canvas | 16in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2010

Construction | Acrylic on Canvas | 30in. x 40in. x 1.5in. | 2010

Dedication | Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2010 | AVAILABLE

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Domestic New York : Mmmm... Zia Bella's!
Domestic New York : Mmmm... Zia Bella's!

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2009 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Even Buildings Have Jury Duty
Domestic New York : Even Buildings Have Jury Duty

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2009 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : The Coney Island Effect
Domestic New York : The Coney Island Effect

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2009 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Makin' Whoopee
Domestic New York : Makin' Whoopee

Acrylic on Canvas | 16in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2008 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Blues in the Night
Domestic New York : Blues in the Night

Acrylic on Canvas | 10in. x 12in. x 1.5in. | 2008 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : 85 Years of Magic
Domestic New York : 85 Years of Magic

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2008 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Never Play The Odds
Domestic New York : Never Play The Odds

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2008 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Chrysler Building's Favorite Film
Domestic New York : Chrysler Building's Favorite Film

Acrylic on Canvas Board | 10in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2008 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Business As Usual
Domestic New York : Business As Usual

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2008 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : One Night Only with Ol' Blue Eyes
Domestic New York : One Night Only with Ol' Blue Eyes

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 18in. x 1.5in. | 2008 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : A Soaring Affair
Domestic New York : A Soaring Affair

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 48in. x 1.5in. | 2008 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Care for Some Penne Rigate?
Domestic New York : Care for Some Penne Rigate?

Watercolor and Ink on Paper | 9in. x 12in. x .5in. | 2007 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Let's Broaden Our Minds
Domestic New York : Let's Broaden Our Minds

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1in. | 2007 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Friends At Play
Domestic New York : Friends At Play

Acrylic on Canvas | 10in. x 20in. x 1in. | 2007 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : St. Patrick's Hears A Sermon
Domestic New York : St. Patrick's Hears A Sermon

Acrylic on Canvas Board | 10in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2007 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Chef Citicorp Dines In
Domestic New York : Chef Citicorp Dines In

Acrylic on Canvas Board | 10in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2007 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Pool Time with G.E. Building
Domestic New York : Pool Time with G.E. Building

Acrylic on Canvas Board | 10in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2006 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Mrs. Chrysler, You're Trying to Seduce Me
Domestic New York : Mrs. Chrysler, You're Trying to Seduce Me

Acrylic on Canvas Board | 10in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2006 | SOLD

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Domestic New York : Empire State Checks Out
Domestic New York : Empire State Checks Out

Acrylic on Canvas Board | 10in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2006 | SOLD

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MANHATTAN SERIES | 2002-2020

The anthropomorphic painting anthology depicting buildings of Manhattan under the siege of war.  Words and Images by Sal Cosenza.

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Manhattan : The Wonder City
Manhattan : The Wonder City

Acrylic on Canvas | 30in. x 40in. x 1.5in. | 2020

Completed in Arizona on June 14th, 2020, Manhattan: The Wonder City is the result of rigorous concept design and breakthrough techniques, as well as long periods of “development hell” that often threatened its completion—and this was all before the tragedy and added delay that was COVID-19.

Taking nearly eight years to complete, the final installment in the Manhattan Series depicts the defeat of the TERROR Group and the reconstruction of the island by Lady Liberty, Freedom Tower, and the rest of the city’s “towering giants.”

Manhattan: The Wonder City also represents Sal’s years of experimentation with various rendering, lighting, and compositional techniques—the culmination to a story nearly two decades in the making. Given its place in that overall story, the final piece is a veritable kitchen sink of ideas that are woven together to reach a satisfying resolution.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Manhattan : Emancipation
Manhattan : Emancipation

Acrylic on Canvas | 30in. x 40in. x 1.5in. | 2011

The fourth installment in the series depicts the reclamation of Manhattan Island by the surviving buildings.  Led in a massive charge by Freedom Tower and Lady Liberty, the buildings arrive to an occupied island transformed by hardened lava and menacing caves.  Off in the distance, Chrysler and Empire State Buildings can be seen lying anxiously for their rescuers to arrive.  

The acclaimed piece turns the tide back in the buildings' favor, as the Supreme Chieftain’s TERROR Group, with its powerful arsenal of walking machines, is finally weakening against the city's regained morale.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Manhattan : The Wrath of Terror
Manhattan : The Wrath of Terror

Acrylic on Canvas | 30in. x 40in. x 1.5in. | 2008

The third installment in the series depicts the violent capture of Manhattan Island from the deadly Supreme Chieftain and his dreaded TERROR Group, while a handful of the city's surviving buildings are shown fleeing from their island and into the mysterious sand dunes beyond.  Chrysler and Empire State Buildings are shown being captured in the bottom left of the piece, and towards the bottom right, the fleeing buildings are shown discovering the presence of Freedom Tower, who makes a dramatic debut by rising out of the sand like a phoenix.  

Post-apocalyptic in tone, the award-winning piece takes the series into strictly fictional territory, as the buildings are shown being forced to flee their home and rely on a gleaming new tower to help them going forward.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Manhattan : The Rising War
Manhattan : The Rising War

Acrylic on Canvas | 30in. x 40in. x 1.5in. | 2005

The second installment in the series is darker and more brooding than the original, as the buildings are witnessing an impending war between their own Manhattan Military, and the elite TERROR Group, the culprits behind the murder of the Twin Towers.  As they witness an air battle erupting over the remains of Ground Zero, many questions about the future of the city loom for the buildings still standing.  

Like its predecessor, Manhattan: The Rising War also won several awards, and its story is based on global events pertaining to war oversees.

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Manhattan
Manhattan

Acrylic on Canvas | 30in. x 40in. x 1.5in. | 2002

The first installment in the Manhattan Series depicts the city's surviving buildings witnessing their friends, the Twin Towers, ascending off into the heavens.  The surviving buildings, which include Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and Lady Liberty, are shown in a state of mourning and unspeakable loss at the sight of their murdered friends' departing spirits.  

Using the horrific events of September 11th as a catalyst, the anthropomorphic painting sets into motion a story that drives the remainder of the series.

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THE STRANGER | 2008-2021

Everyone's got an alter-ego…

Through The STRANGER’S eyes, epidemics like cancer, racism, greed, and more are all confronted with a visual vengeance.

Originally created in 2008 before being “re-awakened” in 2020, The STRANGER gave Sal the freedom to react to various traumas plaguing society during the pandemic and post-pandemic periods, and allowed him to let go of himself in the process.

The STRANGER’S Mission Statement is as follows:

“I am witness to a system in free fall, where loyalties have run amok. Post-pandemic society has re-awakened me, and I see that accountability must be restored, so that we the people are in on the joke, and light can be shed on darkness.

No more tricks. No more deceit. I am a reflection of this sea change. I am...The Stranger.”

Follow @stranger_of_ny for all his latest antics...

It Wants To Grow!
It Wants To Grow!

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2021

Click HERE to reserve the original piece.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Racists Fall Eventually
Racists Fall Eventually

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2020

Click HERE to reserve the original piece.

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Too Much Will Kill You
Too Much Will Kill You

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2020

Click HERE to reserve the original piece.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
What Face Are You Wearing Today?
What Face Are You Wearing Today?

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2020

Click HERE to reserve the original piece.

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The Stranger of New York
The Stranger of New York

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2008 | SOLD

Just who is this STRANGER?

The character began as an ode to pulp comics and movie posters from the 1930’s to 1960’s, as well as to Tim Burton’s darkly whimsical, early 1990’s stylistic films like Batman Returns and Edward Scissorhands, each of which helped thrust this self-portrait into the stratosphere of all things bizarre.

The stylized, declarative lettering, spelling out the piece’s title, is among the first such uses by the artist in his paintings.

Upon its debut at Art One Gallery in 2008, the original piece sold nearly as fast as it had gone up, and has since become something of a revisited muse for Sal (aka The STRANGER) in later years marred by pre and post-pandemic social issues.

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WINDOWS TO THE SOUL | 2022

This acrylic trilogy explores three character-driven situations in an intentionally voyeuristic manner, and is set against a backdrop of specific architectural movements - Art Deco, Prehistory, and Medieval Gothic. Words and Images by Sal Cosenza.

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Windows To The Soul III
Windows To The Soul III

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2022 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on October 9th, 2022.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Windows To The Soul II
Windows To The Soul II

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2022 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on September 25th, 2022.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Windows To The Soul I
Windows To The Soul I

Acrylic on Canvas | 20in. x 20in. x 1.5in. | 2022 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on September 8th, 2022.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Windows To The Soul III - Concept Sketch
Windows To The Soul III - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2022

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Windows To The Soul II - Concept Sketch
Windows To The Soul II - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2022

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Windows To The Soul I - Concept Sketch
Windows To The Soul I - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2022

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Windows To The Soul - Concept Sketch
Windows To The Soul - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2022

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN

MONUSCAPE TRILOGY | 2023

An anthropomorphic trilogy of humanoid rock formations and themes of escape and discovery. Browse exclusive concept art and painting details for each piece below.

Words and Images by Sal Cosenza.

Monuscape Mystique
Monuscape Mystique

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Completed in Arizona on October 14th, 2023, Monuscape Mystique is set in the year 3087 and depicts a couples retreat that goes horribly wrong, amid a backdrop of mysterious Monuscapes and an ocean teeming with deadly sharks. Taking many months to create, the closing chapter in the Monuscape Trilogy was inspired by the fascinating terrain of Thailand’s island outcroppings and its aqua-tinted seas.

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Monuscape Moon
Monuscape Moon

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on April 2nd, 2023 (Palm Sunday), Monuscape Moon depicts the story of two prisoners who fall in love despite dangerous circumstances. Set against a lunar surface riddled with the craters of asteroids that can still crash down at any moment, their problems are compounded by the fact that this is a place where romance is an illegal and perishable act. In hot pursuit and lacking any type of obvious escape, the embracing lovers now await their fates together. Will they survive?

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape
Monuscape

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on February 12th, 2023, Monuscape is a Surrealist fantasy adventure that combines the allure of Arizona's Papago Park with notions of escape and discovery.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape - Concept Sketch
Monuscape - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2022

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Monuscape - Detail
Monuscape - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape completed in Arizona on February 12th, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape - Concept Sketch
Monuscape - Concept Sketch

Graphite on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

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Monuscape - Detail
Monuscape - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape completed in Arizona on February 12th, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape - Concept Sketch
Monuscape - Concept Sketch

Graphite on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape - Detail
Monuscape - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape completed in Arizona on February 12th, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Detail
Monuscape Moon - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Moon completed in Arizona on April 2nd, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Detail
Monuscape Moon - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Moon completed in Arizona on April 2nd, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Detail
Monuscape Moon - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Moon completed in Arizona on April 2nd, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Detail
Monuscape Moon - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Moon completed in Arizona on April 2nd, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Moon - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Moon - Detail
Monuscape Moon - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Moon completed in Arizona on April 2nd, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Mystique - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Mystique - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Mystique - Detail
Monuscape Mystique - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Mystique completed in Arizona on October 14th, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Mystique - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Mystique - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Mystique - Detail
Monuscape Mystique - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Mystique completed in Arizona on October 14th, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Mystique - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Mystique - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Mystique - Detail
Monuscape Mystique - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Mystique completed in Arizona on October 14th, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Mystique - Concept Sketch
Monuscape Mystique - Concept Sketch

Mixed Media on Bristol Paper | 9in. x 12in. | 2023

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Monuscape Mystique - Detail
Monuscape Mystique - Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 36in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2023

Monuscape Mystique completed in Arizona on October 14th, 2023.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN

NEON BLOOZE | 2024

Self-portraits are 1% ego and 99% everything else, and making them means to unpack one’s mind. Explore each piece in the series below.

Words and Images by Sal Cosenza.

Neon Blooze 1 & 2
Neon Blooze 1 & 2

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 48in. x 1.5in. ea. | 2024

Completed in Arizona on February 28th, 2024.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Neon Blooze 1
Neon Blooze 1

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 48in. x 1.5in. | 2024

Completed in Arizona on February 28th, 2024.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Neon Blooze 2
Neon Blooze 2

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 48in. x 1.5in. | 2024

Completed in Arizona on February 28th, 2024.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Neon Blooze 1 & 2 - Concept Photos
Neon Blooze 1 & 2 - Concept Photos

Mixed Media on Paper | 2024

Neon Blooze 1 & 2 Completed in Arizona on February 28th, 2024.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Neon Blooze 1 & 2 - Details
Neon Blooze 1 & 2 - Details

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 48in. x 1.5in. | 2024

Neon Blooze 1 & 2 Completed in Arizona on February 28th, 2024.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN

OTHER WORKS | 2002-PRESENT

Words and Images by Sal Cosenza.

Towering Pongo
Towering Pongo

Acrylic on Canvas | 16in. x 20in. x 1.375in. | 2022 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on November 4th, 2022.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Neon Jazz & Cocktails
Neon Jazz & Cocktails

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. ea. | 2022

Completed in Arizona on May 27th, 2022.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Emerald City 2.0
Emerald City 2.0

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x .5in. ea. | 2022

Completed in Arizona on March 16th, 2022.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
The Journey
The Journey

Acrylic on Canvas | 11in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2022 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on April 1st, 2022.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Forevergreens
Forevergreens

Acrylic on Canvas | 11in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2022 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on March 24th, 2022.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
House Trilogy
House Trilogy

Acrylic on Canvas | 12in. x 24in. x 1.5in. ea. | 2021 | SOLD

House Trilogy completed in Arizona on November 21st, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
House I : Anguish
House I : Anguish

Acrylic on Canvas | 12in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2021 | SOLD

House Trilogy completed in Arizona on November 21st, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
House II : Hope
House II : Hope

Acrylic on Canvas | 12in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2021 | SOLD

House Trilogy completed in Arizona on November 21st, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
House III : Revival
House III : Revival

Acrylic on Canvas | 12in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2021 | SOLD

House Trilogy completed in Arizona on November 21st, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Towering Husky
Towering Husky

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2021 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on October 11th, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Resilient Love - Vol. I
Resilient Love - Vol. I

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 10in. x .5in. | 2021 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on March 12th, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Resilient Love - Vol. II
Resilient Love - Vol. II

Acrylic on Canvas | 11in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2021 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on March 12th, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Resilient Love - Vol. III
Resilient Love - Vol. III

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 24in. x .5in. | 2021 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on March 12th, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Resilient Love - Vol. I Concept Sketch
Resilient Love - Vol. I Concept Sketch

Graphite on Newsprint | 3in. x 3in. x .175in. | 2021

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Resilient Love - Vol. II Concept Sketch
Resilient Love - Vol. II Concept Sketch

Graphite on Newsprint | 3in. x 4in. x .175in. | 2021

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Resilient Love - Vol. III Concept Sketch
Resilient Love - Vol. III Concept Sketch

Graphite on Newsprint | 3in. x 3in. x .175in. | 2021

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Resilient Love - Vol. III Detail
Resilient Love - Vol. III Detail

Acrylic on Canvas | 8in. x 24in. x .5in. | 2021

Completed in Arizona on March 12th, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
The Giving Tree
The Giving Tree

Acrylic on Canvas | 11in. x 14in. x .5in. | 2021 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on January 25th, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
680 Smith Lane
680 Smith Lane

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 24in. x 1.5in. | 2021 | SOLD

Completed in Arizona on January 10th, 2021.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
The Grand Old Stadium
The Grand Old Stadium

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2020

October 1st, 1973 was a brisk and breezy one, as the old ballplayer took in the air of the great Stadium one last time.

Yankee Stadium, to be precise.

Not just any ballpark was she, but in fact something beyond.

As he stood atop hallowed ground, bat and ball in hand, the old ballplayer dreamt of one last smack over the right field fence, and one last trip around the bases.

That'll get the crowd roaring, he remembered.

And though that damn scoreboard said otherwise, the old ballplayer was sure of one thing: that in the end, "The House That Ruth Built" always wins.

And it always will.

To purchase Deluxe-Edition Archival Prints of The Grand Old Stadium, click HERE.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Out of the Darkness, Into the Light
Out of the Darkness, Into the Light

Acrylic on Canvas | 37in. x 72in. x .75in. | 2018 | SOLD

This piece was showcased during Art One Gallery’s 25th Anniversary in Scottsdale. Exhibition lasted from November 2018 through January 2019, with all proceeds for prints sold at the gallery going towards the Arizona-based Autism Academy.

This epic pirate-themed painting, which was completed in New York City after nearly two-years of production, was quite unlike anything Sal ever created before.

A very special thank you to Art One Gallery, Inc. and the Autism Academy for their support with this exciting project.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Out of the Darkness, Into the Light
Out of the Darkness, Into the Light

Concept Drawings & Details | 11in. x 17in. x .825in. ea. | 2016-2018

Production on Sal Cosenza’s Out of the Darkness, Into the Light began on November 19th, 2016, with final completion of the painting happening in New York City on June 18th, 2018. The story centers on themes of exploration, containing surreal symbols of discovery, wistful notions of new beginnings, and even elements of danger. Naturally, the painting is a pirate-themed piece, showcasing the journey of three young explorers looking for buried treasure amidst a vast landscape of sea and rock. The large-scale acrylic piece is painted on un-stretched canvas with deliberately torn edges, itself evocative of an old pirate map.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
The Heart That Shines Upon Us
The Heart That Shines Upon Us

Acrylic on Canvas | 11” x 14” x .5” | 2017

She hovers ever-present, in a radiant glow of pink.

An eternal and beautiful beacon of optimism.

Even as the day falls to night, there she remains, watching us.

She is the Heart that guides us.

That shows us the way.

That shines upon us.

Always.

Completed in New York City on September 18th, 2017, The Heart That Shines Upon Us is dedicated to Sal’s mother, Belle, in honor of her birthday.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Derailing Liberty
Derailing Liberty

Acrylic on Canvas | 18in. x 18in. x 1.5in. | 2017 | SOLD

Lady Liberty stands imprisoned and immobile, as if frozen in time.
That face, once teeming with proud lines and eyes of wisdom, has been detached amidst this runaway train.

Her copper skin, once vital and rich, is unbolting at the seams, and her torch is nowhere in sight. Here lies a game of endurance and faceless pain.

Caught in a fog of red and blue, the emerging creature bursts from her body like a serpent eyeing its next meal.

Why won’t it stop, and why is nobody moving?

These thoughts race in Liberty’s mind with a speed akin to the train’s engines within.

But which will stop first?

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Like Liberty
Like Liberty

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2014 | SOLD

A privately commissioned piece, Like Liberty depicts the universally recognized arm and torch of the Statue of Liberty engaged in a "thumbs up" gesture, which is commonly recognizable to Facebook users as the "Like" button, hence the title.

The result is a socially ambiguous yet patriotically-charged image, inspired by and composed in the style of early Art Deco posters.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
A Chrysler Ecstasy
A Chrysler Ecstasy

Acrylic on Canvas | 22in. x 28in. x 1in. | 2008

Completed swiftly, and intended as an alternative to Sal’s usual painting process, A Chrysler Ecstasy deconstructs the otherwise familiar Chrysler Building, as it seemingly and freely explodes the building’s architectural elements, thereby abstracting them in the process.

The painting made its debut at Art One Gallery in 2008.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
The Chrysler Crucifixion
The Chrysler Crucifixion

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x .5in. | 2005

Inspired largely by the works of the German Renaissance painter Matthias Grünewald, this monochromatic piece was intended to offer a highly surreal and non-traditional take on the Crucifixion scene.

Here, we see a mangled and animated Christ figure, sans beard, and hanging on a cross that incorporates elements found on the Chrysler Building, a longtime muse in Sal’s work. The landscape behind the central elements of the piece is comprised of simplified yet highly surrealistic rock outcroppings, a variety of sloping hills, and a meandering stream. Overall, the work is a spiritual study on the fusion between human anatomy, natural expression, and architecture.

The Chrysler Crucifixion made its debut during the West Valley Art Museum’s “Visual Arts Scholastic Awards” ceremony in April 2005. A highly personal and visually powerful painting, it’s noteworthy that Sal was just 17 years of age when he completed this piece.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Arizona Skyscrapers
Arizona Skyscrapers

Acrylic on Canvas | est. 36in. x 48in. x .5in. | 2005 | SOLD

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
A Family Of Chryslers
A Family Of Chryslers

Acrylic on Canvas | 24in. x 36in. x 1.5in. | 2005 | SOLD

This architectural “family portrait” was completed under the supervision of Janet Blum, during Sal's time at Coronado High School.

Upon completion, the abstract painting had the honor of participating in an auction sponsored by the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA). Guests included the former Mayor of Scottsdale, AZ. During the black tie event, Sal and other artists were treated to a New York-themed dinner party just before the auction took place. A real highlight during the artist’s formative years!

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
New York On My Mind
New York On My Mind

Acrylic on Canvas | 30in. x 30in. x 1.5in. | 2004

One of the first examples in which Sal intertwined self portraiture with New York elements, the resulting painting remains an absurdly unusual work that continues to be a favorite.

Inspired by images of Cloud City from The Empire Strikes Back, the painting is a study of civic infrastructure (i.e. the subway, the parks, and the city) working flawlessly with the organically sculptural forms of the human head.  The way the nose segues into the eyebrows, and the buildings that rest atop them, is just one example in many here of this symbiotic relationship between man and machine.

New York On My Mind is one of the few canvas paintings that was personally stretched by the artist.  Upon initial release, the painting was exhibited at the West Valley Art Museum in 2004 as part of a group show.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Overture In C
Overture In C

Acrylic on Canvas | 72in. x 30in. x 1.5in. | 2002 | SOLD

Completed during early painting sessions at Scottsdale Community College, Overture in C was yet another highly whimsical study of Chrysler Building abstraction, initially inspired by the work of German artist Hans Hoffman. One of the largest canvases in Sal's canon of work, this piece began life as a horse and canyon-themed painting done by Sal's older brother and fellow artist, Chris Cosenza, who had grown tired of the Western-themed piece.

Several techniques are present here, including impasto, as palette knives helped drive paint from directly out of the tube to achieve the effects necessary in showing a Chrysler Building comprised from extroverted characterizations of objects found on the actual building.   

One of the few abstract paintings by the artist, the piece was eventually sold to Sal's high school chemistry teacher.

The title borrows from the work of Tchaikovsky, with the "C" in this case standing for Chrysler Building, naturally.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
Chrysler Building - Dusk
Chrysler Building - Dusk

Acrylic and Marker on Canvas | 18in. x 24in. x .5in. | 2002

In 2002, Sal’s obsession with all things Chrysler Building began. This rarely-seen portrait of the tower counts among the first such examples of the love affair that never really went away.

Inspired by an exceptional birds-eye photograph from a 1987 “National Geographic” story about skyscrapers, Chrysler Building - Dusk remains one of the artist’s personal favorite works. Imbued with a healthy dose of warm hues, the piece vies to capture the iconic tower’s shimmering crown against a sea of summer light, bordering on the surreal but remaining true to the building’s physical character.

Chrysler Building - Dusk was completed during a night-time painting session at Scottsdale Community College, under the instruction John Avedisian. The lessons learned from this piece would help to greatly inform Sal’s successive works, especially with regards to details explored in the award-winning Manhattan from later that year.

© SAL COSENZA ART + DESIGN
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