About This Work

The Red Roofs of the University of Chicago is an oil painting that celebrates the harmony of architecture and nature, captured in a moment of radiant autumn light. It draws the viewer into a world where history and the environment come alive in vivid colors and bold shapes. At the heart of the canvas stands a grand, castle-like building—a hallmark of the UChicago campus—crowned with its unmistakable, steeply-pitched red roofs and spires reaching confidently skyward.This venerable architecture borders the historic green space of the Midway Plaisance, which was once the lively scene of the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. This added layer of history emphasizes a place that is both timeless and deeply connected to Chicago's grand past. Surrounding the structure, trees blaze with the rich hues of fall: glowing yellows, fiery oranges, and lingering greens, each leaf pulsating with the energy of the season. Beneath it all, two students, one standing and one seated, ground the scene with a human presence, inviting viewers to imagine their own story within this vibrant place. This artwork is rendered with a lively palette and a subtle impressionistic touch, where bold outlines breathe life into every detail. It captures the unique spirit of a place that feels both timeless and alive, delivering not just a view, but an experience of the neo-Gothic solidity meeting the ever-changing beauty of nature. Inspired by a deep admiration for the University of Chicago’s autumnal splendor, this piece honors the grandeur of its architecture. It is more than a building against a sky; it’s a testament to the power of place. My hope is that standing before this painting, you feel that same uplifting blend of history, nature, and human scale—the sense that every moment holds a story worth being a part of. The painting was recently displayed at the Winter Exhibition 2023 at Zhou B Art Center in Chicago.