DEAN SAFFRON
PHOTOGRAPHER / FILMMAKER
New York City is in my top three destinations as it is gritty , and also poignant at the same time. There is a bass rhythm that reverberates through the subway and ricochets off the skyscrapers , pulsing through sidewalks, energising pedestrians. As a photographer, it is a dream to be a part of an eco-system that is reliant on human traffic , confidently owning the pavement traversing familiar patterns. Observing residents piece together routes utilising efficient transport nodes and allowing themselves to discover retreats in unlikely places is compelling . Blending in with the tide of residents performing daily migrations , the perfect conditions for street photographers are born. Throughout my trip, I spy hundreds of enthusiasts pausing to capture daily life rituals before rejoining the urban surge .
When this saturation inevitably starts to make you feel overexposed , the ultimate oasis is ofcourse Central Park . The park itself functions as a giant harp . The spirit of John Lennon presides over all and the branches of well established trees curl to form fingers , plucking the heartstrings of the souls beneath. Lawns, tracks, lakes and ponds create different notes but each celestial . Dogs abound respectfully understanding the importance of shared space and being in the moment. Cyclist meander and offer their bells into the melody while students laugh, lovers whisper , and wanderers pontificate.
With a soothed soul , I re-emerge ready to sample an array of artistic and cultural pursuits . From mainstream to niche; mundane to bizarre; low brow to sophisticated; untrained to elite ; comedic to profound , New York has it all and every conceivable thing in between.
As it is easy to lose track of time when travelling, I am reminded that it is indeed a Sunday. I make my way in a linear fashion to Harlem and stumble upon a gospel church with standing room only and people spilling into the forecourt. Curiosity prevails as I gingerly turn the door handle . I am greeted with "Welcome My Brother "and the sentiment is so genuine that I nestle in as if attending a familiar celebration. I see that the congregation of young and old, black and white , is literally dancing in the aisles and the upbeat tempo of the singers causes me to join the revelry. The minister sways also while sharing positive affirmations that are applicable to the current climate.