The Beacon Cinema and Pappy's Lunch
Original drawing on paper, likely mounted or matted • DiTullo (signed lower right)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Realism with illustrative/narrative influences; Americana
Medium & Technique
Mixed media including pastel, colored pencil, and ink. Techniques include cross-hatching, stippling for light effects, and soft blending in the sky and illuminated areas.
Creation Period
2014 (dated lower right)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 x 24 inches; Landscape format
Subject Description
A nostalgic street scene featuring the 'Beacon' cinema marquee and an adjacent diner named 'Pappy's Lunch'. A worker is seen on a wooden ladder at the left, while patrons are visible inside the brightly lit diner at the right. The composition uses high contrast between internal light sources and the evening exterior, employing Edward Hopper-esque themes of urban solitude and light.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent. The colors remain vibrant under glass, and the paper support appears flat without visible buckling or discoloration.
Estimated Market Value
$500 - $1,200
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600
Provenance History
Likely acquired directly from the artist or a local gallery in the Northeastern United States; private collection.
Art Historical Significance
A contemporary piece that captures local architectural history and small-town Americana. It reflects a continued interest in the 'New Realism' tradition, focusing on the character of specific localities and the interplay of artificial light in nighttime settings.
Notable Features
Hand-signed and dated 'DiTullo 2014' in the lower right corner. Notable for its intricate detail in the diner interior and the atmospheric rendering of the marquee lights.
Condition Issues
None visible; protected by glass and matting. Potential for future light damage if not displayed under UV-filtered glazing due to the fugitive nature of pastels.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the frame uses acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to prevent fading of the mediums. Keep in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight.