JASON ELDRIDGE
Artist, Cape Cod, Mass.

Q. Did you come down specifically to paint “The Gates”?

A. Yes, I used to live in New York 15 years ago and I remember there being talk about this project, so there was no way I was going to miss it. And I think anything that brings people out and gets people commenting on things is doing its trick.

What was your initial reaction to the piece as an artist?

I think it is extremely optimistic, especially for this time of the year where there is so many grays. It is just the perfect time to do it.

Were you fans of the artists beforehand?

Yes, I have seen their work with the umbrellas and everything else, mostly in pictures because this is the closest one I can get to.

How many paintings have you completed?

Three today. I started at daybreak. I did a couple against the buildings and that kind of gives it an abstract feeling. Now I am doing one with some people.

Do you plan on doing anything else while in New York City?

No, I am planning on going back tonight. I have been here since 6:30 in the morning. I came down only for the day.