Tag: NYC

Reflecting Pools of the Twin Towers

One of places that the Art League went to while in New York City was the “The National September 11 Memorial”. This memorial is located in lower Manhattan (At the intersection of Albany and Greenwich Streets) and is near other known landmarks such as Trinity Church, Zuccotti Park, New York Stock Exchange, the World Financial Center, and Wall Street is nearby as well. The 9/11 Memorial is part of the World Trade Center redeveloped master plan that has been designed by Daniel Libeskind. The project is estimated to be fully completed by 2014. Currently it is still under construction, however the progress of what has already been done to the location is extraordinary!

Within the Memorial there are two pools which are about one acre each in size, which are known as reflecting pools, these two pools have been placed within the original bases of the former twin towers of the World Trade Center. On these reflecting pools are engraved names of those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks. There is also waterfalls that incase the reflecting pools as well. The reflecting pools certainly bring a sense of tranquility and peace to the environment of a busy and noisy section of New York City. Also within the 16 acre there are more than 400 trees that have been planted to surround the Memorial. The Memorial Glade is a section within the Memorial designated for special ceremonies and gatherings while visiting the Memorial. Outside of the Memorial there is a small museum and gift shop for visitors to go to as well. This offers some articles from the site of “Ground Zero” for viewing, along with videos to watch and souvenirs for those whom may wish to take a memory of their visit to the Memorial with them on their departure. By far it is a grand example of architectural art and design.

 In order to visit you must first register for a visitors pass, then when you arrive you will go through additional security screenings, it is best that you come early to visit and note there is no public restroom facilities within the Memorial or in surrounding hotels. The times for accessibility to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum may vary. For further information feel free to go the Memorial’s site: http://www.911memorial.org/

Street Art

 

Within the communities of New York City there is a mass variety of artistic expression. From the street of Brooklyn to the outskirts of Queens within the areas of Chinatown and Little Italy spreading to the subway tunnels all the way to Times Square; street art can be found on display from everything as mundane as garbage dumpsters, trains, buses, bridges and building walls. Some of this art may have or may not have been tagged onto objects and surrounding by artist that either had or had not been permitted to place their artwork onto the objects and surroundings.  Yet to me it is a sign of an individual’s artistic expressions and ideas being brought into an existing life.  Rather it is simple line contours or complex murals filled with a wide array of colors and styles, the street art of New York City is by fall is high on the scale when it comes to variety, style, and individual expression mixed with a melting pot of diverse cultures and views.

 

 

While venturing to the PS1, an addition to the MOMA  art museum, this form of art was very dominant and respected among the locals within that community. From what I’ve gathered to understand, in order for an artist to have use of the building walls within the community; the artist must first submit a written request or application along with added artwork and detailed description of what the artist plans to create on the wall. This may help encourage graffiti and street artists to continue to pursue their passion for creativity and artistic expression while not being involved in any sort of vandalism or obstruction of property. To view these works up close is a real inspiration to any artist! It shows that a simple idea can easily be manifested in a large scale.

 

Street art isn’t as prestigious as other forms of art to most, however it helps build a unique and lively atmosphere to the already creative environments and amazing architectural surfaces  within some of the inner and outer neighborhoods of New York City.

Egyptian Art at the Met

The first time I remember becoming completely interested in Egyptian art was in my fifth grade social studies class. We learned about art that was found in the tombs of ancient rulers of one of the worlds greatest settlements. I remember there was a picture of the golden death mask of King Tut on the front of the book, but it would take at least half the year to get to that chapter. Of course, it was the first chapter that I read. As a child, I would get very excited about learning something new. As an adult, that thrill is hard to come by. Learning is still something that I actively seek out, but rarely comes with a sense of eagerness and thrill.

The Metropolitan Museum of art showcases a massive collection of Egyptian art and artifacts. I felt like that fifth grade kid again, peering through the glass at real life mummies and imagining myself in the midst of an ancient civilization. It brought back a childlike wonder that is so easily lost in the day to day monotony of adulthood.

The difference between peering into history as an adult, instead of through childlike wonderment, is the ability appreciate the work. As an adult, you know what it must have taken to achieve such amazing feats of human creation. To see tool marks from hand tools used to carve solid granite into the human form is awe inspiring. I also could not help but to think that these were people, with human fears and beliefs. They spent much of their lives physically preparing for their own death. They were very aware of the delicate nature of our own existence. I couldn’t help but suspect that they, as a culture, must have feared death very much to go through so much in preparation for the inevitable. They believed in their Gods and afterlife with their whole being, much like the radical beliefs that exist is all the great civilizations of our time. The ancient Egyptians probably never imagined that someone such as myself would be peering through a glass box at the carved image of a king, intended to carry his soul into the afterlife (something that was never intended to be disturbed), and wondering what their lives were really like. It makes me think about the people who will be one day peering into some unforeseen future museum wondering about our civilization. What will they think of us?

Frida and Diego at the Moma

One of my favorite real life dramas is the saga that is the life and art of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. I was very excited to see the work of two of my favorite artists at the Moma. I have been interested in Frida Kahlo for many years. Her life was so tragic and exciting. She never let herself be confined by social standards, yet could not escape the limitations imposed by her own broken body. Wrecked by an unfortunate accident, she was forced to live in pain and immobility for most of her adult life. While confined to her bed, most likely recovering from her most recent surgery, she painted. Her paintings were very personal, mostly about her own pain or fears. They were who she was inside. I feel a connection to her because of the personal nature of her paintings haunting images. She endured more than most could be expected to bear, yet somehow a beautiful spirit, full of freedom of thought, persisted. I admire her so much for that. She is a mexican artist who paints a human experience which evokes nameless emotion.

Her husband Diego Rivera, an older more famous artist at the time, paints in a way that has little to do with his personal feelings at all. In fact his work represents the collective experience of an entire country. He found his inspiration from the plight of those in need of a voice. He painted murals for the masses around him, instead of galleries where only the wealthy could afford to buy art. He represented the needs of the poor.

The combination of these two personalities was like fireworks. Their was passion, intellect, betrayal and reconciliation. Their relationship reads like a tragic soap opera. Their work lives up to their biographies. Frida’s painting are small and intense, most of them painted from her bed. Diego’s were massive and imposing. Together they are a rare example of two people who found each other and made art that defined an era in Mexico.

 

Peep

 

Peep is located within the SoHo district, which is between New York City’s Manhattan area and the Chinatown district. From my understanding, from locals within the direct area, it is pronounced “Pep”. Peep is an authentic Thai based restaurant. It gives a lot of attention to detail, reflection and creativity as soon as you walk through the door. The ceiling is mounted with a reflective cover that allows you to view yourself and others at an unique angle. The walls of the establishment are covered with mirrors as well! The bathroom facilities had the same unique atmosphere, with the added effect that once a person is in the bathroom they can view through the walls and door into the main corridors of the seating and dining area, with an option to watch television as well.

Box1 was my choice selection from the menu. The meal contained a soup: Tom Yum (containing chicken, shrimp or tofu…I chose the chicken) it is a spicy lemongrass beet soup. The appetizer was a Leek spring roll w/ citrus syrup dip. The salad included was a cesar salad w/ iso dressing and tofu croutons and last but not least by no means was the entrée – Green Curry Dish with chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu (chicken selected once again) with eggplant, bamboo shoots and snow peas. This lunch was priced at $ 12 and was well worth every penny!

There is a variety of options within the menu for those that are looking for something unique and memorable. They offer one complimentary first plate, the items include but not limited to the following: Semolina Fritters, Peep Salad, Deep Tofu, Grilled Calamari, and Charred Tomato and Mushroom Napoleon. Some of their other offers include: Sesame Dish w/ leeks, Ginger Dish w/pineapple, Massaman Dish w/peanut and potato, South East Asian Curry Puff (Which includes a choice of Duck or Chicken, potato, onion and curry powder), Mojito Duck w/ mint, pineapple, tomato, onion, and mojito tatar. The selection of taste and food presentations created by the Chefs here are outstanding.

Peep is located at 177 Prince Street, New York, NY. If you ever get the chance to be in this area of New York City, I would suggest calling this establishment for possible reservations; this restaurant seems to be a very popular dinning spot. Their phone number is (212) 254- PEEP and their website is: http://www.peepsoho.net/home.html

While in Astoria

Traveling through Astoria we came across the restaurant named Latin Cabana which is located within a Latin portion of Queens, New York. Offering an authentic style of Cuban cuisines, Latin Cabana is a great choice in comparison to the usual cooperate restaurants. When you first enter into the restaurant establishment you are quickly emerged into a tranquil and friendly hint of Cuban culture. While browsing through the menu you will have a variety of bilingual specials offered for lunch and dinner. Since everything is written and spoken with a Spanish and English mixture, most all everything listed on the menus are translated between the two languages as well. The staff will also help pronounce any item to help with understanding and comprehension.

A few of the menu items range from Rotisserie Chicken to Carne Guisada (Beef Stew), Sopa de Pollo (Chicken Soup) to Yuca Rellena (Cassava w/ Beef and Pork filling), they also have a variety of Desserts and Batidos (Shakes) to choose from as well. The amount of food catered to the customer is not scarce by no means, the meals come out in a timely manner, cooked foods are hot and fresh, and the server regularly asks if anyone thing else is needed.

On the day that I had visited Latin Cabana, while looking at the menu I was flooded with choices on what to order! The cook was walking by and asked if I knew what I wanted to place an order on. I asked what he suggested; he offered one of his favorite meals as a considerable choice. This meal included: Picadillo (Ground Beef w/ Cuban seasonings), Black Beans and Rice, and Maduros (Fried Sweet Plantains). The meal was mildly spicy with a lot of distinct subtle flavors, the best part of this meal to me was the Maduros, this was the first time I had actually sat down to try Plantains, after having them and noticing how sweet and unique Plantains taste compared to how their outer shell appears, I am sure to add them into future meals! 

Latin Cabana is located at 34-44 Steinway Street (Corner of 35th) Astoria, Queens, New York City. Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Friday and Saturday open until 5 a.m.)

Simply Le Pain Quotidien

Le Pain Quotidien is a bakery and a communal table wrapped into one. This restaurant carries a very simple atmosphere. All the food offered here for the most part is organic based with no preservatives, which to the health conscious is certainly a plus!  A few of things that I did enjoy about this establishment was the communal table setting, this gives the sole purpose of strangers, friends and family to choose to sit among those they know or share the opportunity to get to know someone else while choosing their choice from the  dinning menu and waiting for their meal to be served. Le Pain endorses a community to be close and positive; this can be felt and seen with the service and environment of the restaurant. Their furniture is crafted from reclaimed wood, which helps to preserve the forests and wilderness in the long run!  They also offer bread baking classes for those interested in becoming or refreshing their bakery knowledge and experience as well!

Their menu is made from simple ingredients yet the meal presentations show a wide array of complex artistic creativity. Their menu has a lot to offer and choose from, a few of these items are the following: Quiche Lorraine w/ ham, Swiss cheese and leeks on a whole wheat crust, Board of Fine Cheeses – a daily selection of aged and local cheeses, Mediterranean Plate w/ hummus, babaganoush, and quinoa taboulé (The Mediterranean Plate is a vegan plate.), Grilled Chicken & Smoked Mozzarella w/ arugula and basil pesto, Organic Brioche, Toasted Paris Ham & Gruyère Croissant w/ a mustard trio, Smoked Salmon & Scallion omelet, Side Arugula Salad (Another vegan choice) basil pesto and vinaigrette, with a side of  Le Pain’s  organic bread.

On the day we visited Le Pain, my lunch choice was a tartine (open sandwich). The tartine was called Roasted Turkey and Avocado; I was surprised at the size of the food proportions the meal was very creatively displayed but there wasn’t much there. Of course after I ate my meal and began to read further into the ingredients of my pallet’s selection, I noticed that the light and healthy meal was just the right size to leave me refreshed and full of energy to carry on the rest of the day! I consider the explanation of this due to the combination of healthy foods mixed with the fact the meal was low in carbs, sodium and lacked a lot of added sugar. Most meals are served with room temperature water as well.

 

There are many locations of Le Pain within the New York City area, as well as a few other states within the U.S., Le Pain is also found in other nations around the world as well! For those interested in more about Le Pain and their locations, what they offer with meals and bakery classes feel free to visit their site is: http://www.lepainquotidien.us/

Being Singular Plural

During our visit to NYC, the Guggenheim museum was exhibiting a show called “Being Singular Plural”. The show featured seven artists living and working in India, who are producing video and sound based works.  Shumona Goel, Shai Heredia, Sonal Jain, Vikram Joglekar, Amar Kanwar, Mriganka Madhukaillya, and Kabir Mohanty were the featured artists of this exhibition.

One piece in particular drew my attention for reasons the artist may not have anticipated every viewer having the opportunity to witness. The piece is called In Memory made by  Vikram Joglekar. The piece features rocks, pebbles, and sand. It invites the viewer to participate in the piece by walking in the pit to create sounds picked up by a microphone. Visitors can then stand under a sound magnifier to listen to the sounds created. When I entered the museum, I spotted a blind woman. I noticed her service animal first. Of course, seeing a dog in a museum would stand out to anyone. I remember having the passing thought that it must be incredibly unfulfilling  to visit a museum and not be able to see the art. I felt a flash of sadness for this woman followed by a feeling of appreciation for the ability to see beauty.

All of this was quickly passing internal dialogue as I was swept up in the crowd and frenzy of an exciting visit to the Guggenheim. I went to the top floor as I have come to find myself doing, copying the actions of my professors preference. I participated in the In Memory exhibit and continued on without an extreme appreciation other than the novelty of being involved.

After seeing some classmates sitting outside the room where this piece is exhibited, I saw the blind woman. Noticing the dog again, it hit me like a pain in my chest. This woman had just left the In Memory exhibit room that I had just visited. I was was suddenly physically moved by the thought that this woman may have come to this exhibit because of the fact that these are sound based works. What I had previously regarded as novelty is most certainly profoundly different to someone who may never have seen a work of two dimensional art. With this singular thought, this work of art holds a new place in my opinion. Even though I was not particularly affected initially, I will remember it always because of this woman. I only wish I would have been there to see her face when she was experiencing a work of art exactly the way it was meant to be.

New York neighborhoods

New York is pretty famous for its variety and neighborhood distinctions. In this diverse city in America, a few blocks can make a world of difference. A short walk can mean the difference between Chinatown and Little Italy. I think I heard more accents from all over the world than the actual stereotypical “New York” accent. That is probably because New York is international.

Historically immigration filtered through this city. When the world sent the weary masses to America, this is where they came. As a result, New York offers the richness and variety of a world full of cultures. Collectively, they make New York great. New York neighborhoods originated and have evolved because of their location and immigrant populations. When families picked up their lives in order to cross an ocean and become Americans, they didn’t suddenly abandon their way of life and values. They often settled in areas with people who shared the same history, family traditions, language, and the same types of food. People came to America, often times with their entire family. This included aging parents and Grandparents. Settling in areas with people from their own country helped to ease this transition. Because of neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy, we all can appreciate traditions and a way of life passed down through the generations.

Many neighborhoods originated because of their location or crafty real estate marketing. SoHo, Dumbo, and Tribeca are examples of areas that are named for their locations. The key factor in many of these areas is the rejuvination of spaces that were once manufacturing or rundown warehouses. This evolution can usually be traced back to different art movements. Artists need large cheap spaces, and old unused businesses provide the perfect environment. Everyone wants to be a part of the next en vogue scene, and that is wherever the art is. The problem with this phenomenon is that as soon as property values get too high, the artists have to move somewhere else!

I can’t imagine walking through New York could ever be boring, not only because of its massive size, but because of its diversity.

China Town

During our visit in New York, the art league went to Chinatown. It’s not really like what the movies portray it as. If you have a chance to go to China town, you should. They have tons of shops, from markets to little jewelry stores. If you’re looking for something (whether it be clothes, toys, food, ect.) buy it in China town. Everything is cheaper there and they will some how make a deal with you. Shoppers should be careful however, as they may try and pull a scam on you. Inspect it before you buy it! For example, I saw an owl necklace that dealers on the street were selling from twenty to thirty-five dollars, but I found it for fifteen dollars and was able to buy it for ten dollars in China Town.

I always seem to get lost no matter where I go in the world. So of course I just had to get lost in China town, and it was a little scary. Not every one in Chinatown can speak English well, if at all. Most of the signs are in Chinese, and it seems like every street looks like the same. If you do get lost in China town it may be easier to take a taxi rather than walk, or ask for directions.

Here is some history behind China Town:
“New York City’s China Town is the largest China Town in the United States, and the site of the largest concentration of Chinese in the western hemisphere. Its two square miles are loosely bounded by Kenmore and Delancey streets on the north, East and Worth streets on the south, Allen street on the east, and Broadway on the west. With a population between 70,000 and 150,000, China Town is the favored destination point for Chinese immigrants, though in recent years the neighborhood has also become home to Dominicans, Puerto Ricans, Burmese, Vietnamese, and Filipinos among others. So even though its really not much, its worth looking at for the good deals and low prices.”