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Animals Invade U.S. Open: A Wild Tennis Spectacle
29 Aug
Summary
- Illustration features native New York animals enjoying the U.S. Open.
- Artist researched local wildlife extensively for accuracy and detail.
- The artwork aims to capture the tournament's unifying and free-spirited nature.
The New York Times's U.S. Open tennis preview features a unique cover illustration depicting Arthur Ashe Stadium filled with animals. Designed by sports designer Timothy Oliver and illustrator Zazie Weldgen, the artwork showcases dozens of New York native species enjoying the tournament, from a raccoon with a cocktail to an otter juggling balls.
Weldgen, a 23-year-old artist from Rochester, N.Y., grounded her work in ecological research, meticulously selecting animals found in New York State. Her process involved weeks of research using library encyclopedias and state environmental resources.
The illustration took over three months to prepare, a lengthy lead time for such a project. Weldgen experimented with color studies and referenced photos to capture the stadium's dawn atmosphere, ultimately using watercolor, acrylic paint, and gel pens.
Oliver stated the aim was to create an image that offers a joyful respite from daily news, something "everyone can see themselves in." The special section includes a complete list of every animal depicted in the illustration.
