The PLACE Collection

New York City

Echoes of Place: An Artistic Journey Through New York 

Creating this collection has been a journey of exploration and connection, bridging the gap between people and places through art. From the outset, my vision was to capture the essence of various global locations, starting with New York City. This ambitious project aimed to explore how different cities resonate with people and convey their unique characteristics at specific moments in time.

I chose New York City as the initial focus for several reasons. The city epitomizes American culture with its diverse demographics and international flair. It stands as a melting pot where various cultures converge, making it an ideal starting point for my project. Moreover, collaborating with director Rudy Valdez, who is based in New York, made the city a natural choice.

My past experiences with New York, including working on an uncle’s apartment and multiple visits, deeply influenced my approach to this project. The city’s relentless energy and cultural convergence shaped my perception, allowing me to incorporate a fresh interpretation of its vibrant life into my artwork.

Having a film crew document the process introduced a new layer of complexity. Initially more comfortable behind the camera, being on camera made me more conscious of my actions and interactions. The crew’s presence heightened my focus and awareness, enriching the experience but also adding a layer of intensity.

The artwork representing New York City incorporates elements reflecting its dynamic nature. For example, the monochromatic treatment of New Jersey contrasts with the vibrant energy of New York. The throw technique used for Queens symbolizes its cultural diversity, while Manhattan’s prominence is highlighted as the city’s central hub. Brooklyn's historical references, including the Brooklyn Dodgers logo, and elements inspired by hip-hop culture, emphasize its rich cultural evolution. Staten Island is portrayed with a sense of isolation, reflecting its unique contributions despite being less connected to Manhattan.

Throughout this project, my personal experience of New York City was transformative. The city’s energy and diversity were palpable, and interactions with its residents provided deep insights into its multifaceted identity. This project offered a fresh perspective, blending my artistic vision with the city’s vibrant life.

The artistic influences in my work are deeply rooted in New York City’s elements. For instance, Art Deco architecture prominent in the Bronx and cultural landmarks like “West Side Story” feature prominently in my art. I also included references to Rikers Island and Wards Island’s sports fields, highlighting various facets of the city’s life.

Central Park plays a central role in my representation of New York City. Its vastness amidst the bustling metropolis symbolizes a pause and respite, reflecting a significant aspect of the city’s character.

One memorable encounter during the project was with a pedicab driver from Africa. His story of sacrifice and opportunity illuminated the global spirit of New York. Another significant interaction was with a young man fishing in Central Park, which revealed a peaceful side of the city that contrasts with its usual hustle and bustle.

In portraying the dual nature of dreams and reality, I use various elements to reflect this concept. For example, a skull with a thought bubble reading "I dreamed a dream" represents the countless dreams that may not come to fruition. Graffiti and the shadows of the Twin Towers acknowledge both the artistic vibrancy and historical weight of the city.

The “broken frame” technique, which I developed during my studies in Florence, represents an open perspective, symbolizing the interconnectedness of different places and viewpoints. This approach reflects the idea that each piece is part of a larger, ongoing narrative.

To me, New York City embodies a unique blend of human spirit and creativity, transcending spoken language. Its energy and capacity for artistic expression are remarkable, reflecting an international language of art and human endeavor.

Time plays a crucial role in my work, influencing historical context and present experiences. Each piece captures a snapshot of a specific moment, relating past experiences to the present and future.

This collection is not the only work I pursued before the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, the Seattle piece from January 2020 was created just before the pandemic's impact became widely felt. I aimed to avoid turning the collection into a COVID-focused series, despite its influence on my work.

By the time I reached Maui in November 2020, the reduced tourism due to the pandemic created a unique atmosphere. This shift in environment led me to focus more on the human connection to the place rather than natural symbols.

Sound and smell are integral to my artistic representation. In my New York City piece, I included sounds of street traffic, car horns, and baseball games, along with natural sounds to evoke the full sensory experience of the place. Similarly, the smells of hot dogs, popcorn, and salty sea air anchor me to specific locations and evoke vivid memories.

I hope viewers connect with the places depicted in my work and reflect on their own experiences. My goal is to highlight each place's beauty and the fleeting nature of time, encouraging viewers to appreciate their surroundings and shared human experiences.

Each person’s experience of my art is deeply personal. Whether it’s a first visit or a familiar location, the personal significance of that place adds depth to their interaction with the artwork.

This collection represents my exploration of the universal language of place, allowing me to share my message with a global audience. It has opened new possibilities for how I create and share my art, emphasizing the connection that transcends language and resonates with the human experience.

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