Painting

Familia de Palazzolo

Description

Painting titled Familia de Palazzolo, created in memory of Richard A. Palazzolo. The painting was commissioned by Richard's twin brother, Ron, and is one of two painted for the family. The painting setting is Washington Square Park in New York City. The Twin Towers are depicted in the center of the Washington Arch. In the foreground, a puddle on the street reflects the sky with the towers notably absent. On the right is Richard, depicted in white, reaching out towards his brother, Ron. Behind Richard is a man dressed in a pink suit next to a white vehicle. At Richard's feet is a black backpack, a multicolored flag or perhaps ribbons, and a New York City Marathon runner's bib with the number 15563. On the left is Ron, depicted sitting on the open trunk of a blue station wagon. He is wearing a tan T-shirt and jean shorts. A set of dog tags are visible around his neck. In his hands, he holds the corner of a large American flag that is spread out over his feet and onto the street. He is also holding a long green ribbon. Sitting behind Ron is the boys' mother, Annette, wearing a long dark purple dress. Another man stands behind her. Annette holds the frame of a large black and white wedding photo, presumably of her and her husband. Also visible is an identical New York City Marathon runner's bib with the number 15564. The painting also includes a red Thunderbird, a pigeon, an old yellow taxicab, a hot dog vendor cart, and a New York Times delivery truck.

Historical Notes

Queens native Richard Palazzolo, known as Rico, lived with his twin brother, Ronald, in Manhattan. Richard enjoyed hiking, mountain climbing, and running marathons, usually in Ronald’s company. Both men worked at the World Trade Center, Richard as a bond broker for Cantor Fitzgerald on the North Tower’s 105th floor. On September 11, Ronald was able to evacuate, but Richard was not. He was 39 years old.