Artist Statement: My design, Rhapsody in Blue, features an abstract painting inspired by and named after George Gershwin’s famous musical composition. Rhapsody in Blue is one of my favorite pieces of music; to me, its contrasting and intermixing themes and phrases capture the life, diversity, and energy of New York City. My design for the piano is a synesthetic exploration of the music that employs color, texture and mark-making to create a meandering illustration of the piece. It depicts the six main themes of the composition, as well as the colors of the individual instruments that make up Gershwin’s masterpiece. Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue was able to embody the pulse and life of the city through music; through my design, I strive to capture both the essence of his music and vibrant city it represents.