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El Cortez Hotel San Diego’s first true skyscraper, once the tallest building in the city. History: Built in 1927, El Cortez was a glamorous hotel and beacon of downtown luxury. Its iconic rooftop sign and glass elevator were once symbols of modern innovation. With its dramatic sky and glowing neon, Ray Carpenter’s tribute to the El Cortez brings the legendary hotel—and its famous Travolator ramp—back to life in a dreamy dance of color, nostalgia, and San Diego history.

From Ray Carpenter

  1. Ranchos Cucinas North Park by Ray Carpenter, Image 1.

    Ranchos Cucinas North Park

    Watercolor and Ink.

    22 x 15 x 0.15 in

  2. Ash & 7th: Where History Meets the Sky by Ray Carpenter, Image 1.

    Ash & 7th: Where History Meets the Sky

    Watercolor and Ink.

    11 x 15 x 0.25 in

    $250

  3. Cortez Under a Red Sun by Ray Carpenter, Image 1.

    Cortez Under a Red Sun

    Watercolor and Ink.

    32 x 24 x 0.25 in

  4. Ash & Elevation by Ray Carpenter, Image 1.

    Ash & Elevation

    Reproduction Mix Media Metal

    30 x 40 x 0.25 in

    $795

  5. Hotel del Sunrise by Ray Carpenter, Image 2.

    Hotel del Sunrise

    4 x 6 x 0.25 in

  6. Seventh & Sun by Ray Carpenter, Image 5.

    Seventh & Sun

    5.75 x 8 x 0.25 in

    $25

  7. El Cortez Rising by Ray Carpenter, Image 11.

    El Cortez Rising

    Watercolor and Ink.

    5.75 x 7 x 0.25 in

    $25

  8. Ash Street Icon by Ray Carpenter, Image 14.

    Ash Street Icon

    15 x 10 x 0.25 in

    $225