Gregorio Prestopino: A Vision of Urban Humanity Gregorio Prestopino (1907–1984) stands as a pivotal figure in American realist painting, particularly during the Depression era and beyond. Born in New York City’s Little Italy—the second child of Italian immigrants Antonino Prestopino and Letteria Rando—his artistic journey began with a scholarship to the National Academy of Design, where he honed his skills alongside Charles Hawthorne. This formative experience instilled in him an appreciation for observation and detail, shaping his distinctive approach to portraying the human condition. Ear…