MANHATTAN DAILY PHOTO

TEN YEARS

2011-09-11T15:45:00.002-04:00

People stop by just to say:
"We remember"

Another year has passed.

And nope, time doesn’t heal. However, it offers more and more distance for a reflective thinking.
Here is once again a picture from the 10^th Battalion Firehouse.

I am partial to this particular Firehouse – every day I see their fire trucks with numbers 22 and 13 rushing through the neighborhood to save lives.

Nine of their firefighters lost lives in the World Trade Center attack ten years ago. Last year I posted their pictures on the September 11^th blog: http://manhattandailyphoto.blogspot.com/2010/09/ladder-13.html.

As last year, I am at a loss for words. Firemen saved 20 000 people on that day.
So I will just say “Thank you”.

...AND SOME MORE SNOW...

2010-12-27T12:31:00.000-05:00

Usually full of traffic, Park Avenue is a Winter-land today

We got snowed in! No fun if you have to go to the office today. Much better situation for those who could work from home or just took a day off. Central Park is full of kids, and there are snowmen of all possible shapes and styles everywhere.

And it seems that everybody had a sled ready!

LET IT SNOW...

2010-12-26T15:55:00.001-05:00

I know, I know – many of you in Europe got to witness a rather damaging and disruptive side of it lately. But for New York it is the first real snow of the season.

It has started in the early afternoon today. That's when I took this picture in Central Park, right behind the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The “Beatles” group with umbrellas are obviously tourists. I hope they went promptly to change - they would be in a bad shape promenading in Central Park in heels under this snowfall.

For those of us who have either children or dogs (or both) the first snow is a special sort of joy. You all know what I am talking about.

I want to use this very appropriate picture and sort of appropriate day (ok, a bit late) to wish you all a very happy Christmas. I had a really wonderful celebration, so I have a good excuse for posting my holiday wishes late. But the wishes are still the same – for you and your loved ones to live in peace, in love, in joy and in a constant discovery of many wonderful sides of each other. Happy Christmas!

SANTA , DEFINE NAUGHTY…

2010-12-13T00:13:00.007-05:00

They see you when you are sleeping; they know when you are awake…

I bet you had no idea there is a Santa Claus Convention… But there is one, and very appropriately it is happening in New York. Voilà!

Do you have more than one Christmas wish? Not a problem (and welcome to the club!). Many Santas are willing to help.

OK, I am a horrible blogger. I travel way too much to keep my finger on the pulse of only one (even if the most exciting one) city. But I love New York with all my heart, and whenever I am lucky to get back home, I am thrilled to share the energy of this city with those who love it from afar. I will do my best to be more consistent (it looks like I've just decided on my New Year resolution!!) :)

Wonderful to be back – to NY and its people, to my camera and the blog, and to those who are still checking in – THANK YOU!

MAX ROACH IN THE MAKING

2010-09-26T21:59:00.001-04:00

This kid was so much into the whole thing - the play, the show, the attention... So fun to watch!

September/October are full of business travels. It makes me appreciate even more every time I get to spend several days at my "base" - my Manhattan island.

Have a great week everybody!

Washington Square Park

WORLD PEACE DAY

2010-09-21T14:29:00.000-04:00

LOVE IS THE ANSWER

I took this picture yesterday on my way to a meeting. It is from the West 4th Street in the West Village. This morning I realized that today is the World Peace Day. Very appropriately, and with a great timing, this picture says it all. Love is the answer.

Wishing you a day… week… month … make it LIFE! - full of love:)

BOYS OF SUMMER

2010-09-20T07:04:00.000-04:00

Sun is back:)

Wishing you a great week, everybody!

EAST VILLAGE

BLOOMBERG'S HEADQUARTERS.

2010-09-18T20:22:00.001-04:00

Taking a day off after a super-charged week, I found myself in the midtown.

Despite its central location, I don’t get to pass this building often. This is Bloomberg’s Headquarters.

Michael Bloomberg is the mayor of New York. He is also a talented and successful businessman. And I happen to like him a great deal. Whether you are his fan or not, you would be for sure impressed with this building. Here and here are the links to some information about it.

The building has a clean, modern, light, even elegant vibe. The openness of it apparently creates a positive and collaborative feel among the employees. Can’t say anything about that, but it definitely an interesting architectural sight. In any case if you have to spend the whole day in the office, this looks quite inspiring!

IN THE EYE OF A STORM.

2010-09-16T22:58:00.003-04:00

This is a crazy busy week. I am sure many of you feel the same once (twice?) in a while: stretching to the max in all the possible directions.

This morning I just HAD to get some peace. Ah, thankfully I live in just the right place. I took my favorite partner in crime (my dog of course) for the longest walk in the Park.

Can I just tell you? It was the best possible thing I could do for myself (and my dog of course)!
Central Park was so quiet, serene and so breathtakingly beautiful!

And then the day went absolutely insane. We even had a deadly storm (hurricane?) in Manhattan! Yep. The only reason I was able to maintain myself on a sane side is because I took time to breath this morning.

The moral of this story: get a dog, of course!

MINI ME

2010-09-15T21:45:00.001-04:00

After seeing this, I am so tempted to spend a day in the World Financial Center building, taking pictures of whoever sits down with this huge photograph on the background. The results that I have seen were quite comical!

WHITE GHOST

2010-09-14T12:13:00.001-04:00

The gloomy colors of rainy weather made this sculpture to stand out even more.

This is White Ghost by Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara. The Ghost has found its temporarily home on Park Avenue and 67^th street. There is another one on Park and 70^th.

The locations are not accidental – there is Yoshitomo Nara’s retrospective at the Asia Society (Park and 70^th) and the open studio residency of the artist at the Park Avenue Armory at the 67^th street. While in New York, you can also see his work in the MOMA museum.

END OF RUNWAY

2010-09-13T14:18:00.000-04:00

The New York Fashion Week continues. And I have decided to give it another post.

We are so used to seeing pictures of models walking the runway at the fashion shows. But here is the look at how those pictures are taken.

ENGINE COMPANY 22. LADDER COMPANY 13.

2010-09-11T12:23:00.001-04:00

It’s been nine years. It is so incredibly sad and it still hurts. What do I even write today? I feel like I should say all or nothing. So I leave you with a vision that tells more than any words would.

Every district in Manhattan has its own fire department. The closest to where I live is 10th Battalion (Engine 22. Ladder13). I have a special place in my heart for the brave people who work there.

On September 11th of 2001 they lost 9 firemen. They, and those who lost their lives to save others, deserve to be known, appreciated and never forgotten.

There was a time when the world asked ordinary men to do extraordinary things

SPRING STARTS HERE

2010-09-10T00:13:00.004-04:00

According to Mayor Bloomberg, fashion industry is the second-largest in New York. It supports 175,000 jobs and $10 billion in wages. Apparently, New York has twice as many companies related to fashion than any other city in the world.

September 9th is the first official day of fashion week in New York. This is when we find out what the world will be trying to wear in the spring. It is THE craziest time for thousands of people involved – from designers, to production, to media people, to retailers, to models – and of course, for those aspiring to be any of the above. I saw so many model-looking girls on the streets this afternoon that finally I gave up and got out my camera.

Whether these two girls are walking runway this week or just playing wishful thinking, doesn’t really matter. They contribute to a special mood in Manhattan, a very particular to the Fashion Week. It is the mood of celebration, of anticipation, of looking into the future and of appreciation for all the hard work that goes into every little detail of this frivolous on the outside business.

THIS WEEK

2010-09-09T00:13:00.006-04:00

From the 41st street and 7th Avenue

This is a loaded week when it comes to important dates and events. Manhattan is busy acknowledging them.

It is a week of the Rosh Hashanah and of the ending of Ramadan. It is the 9th anniversary of the September 11th . And it is the beginning of New York Fashion Week – which to some might seem to be a frivolous thing, but if you consider its role in the economy and the boost it gives to the fashion industry, this is something that deserves a great respect and support. Whatever can give people work, income, and zest for life – yes, please!

So in order to honor the joyful side of this week, today’s picture is of a festive side of Manhattan. It is what you want to see when you come for your first visit – Time Square!!!

Yes, it is just like you imagine it to be – lights, people, action, sounds, pictures, colors, police … and did I mention LIGHTS?!?!?

This picture and the one below is taken from the 41 Street and Seventh Avenue

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

This picture is taken from the 42nd Street and Broadway

HERE WE MEET AGAIN…

2010-09-08T00:13:00.004-04:00

It is a small place, New York.

So often, while trying to organize some time together and fit into each other’s schedule with close friends, we are bumping into each other randomly on the street.

The same is with this old-fashioned yellow taxi-cab – I saw it for the first time on Mott Street in Nolita a while ago. After that I always look for it! And today I came face to face with this cab again – on the Upper East Side this time! I was planning to post on my blog something about upcoming fashion week here in New York, but the cab won. As you can see from the pictures, I am not the only one taking out my camera for a close up. I think next time I see this old cab, I will interview the driver. He should be a character. It must be fun to be a part of the glimpse into the past!

It has been a hot day in New York, but the evening is breezy. You should plan a visit! It is really the most beautiful time of the year to be in Manhattan!

Keeping up with "younger generation";)

LA RENTREE.

2010-09-07T00:13:00.003-04:00

Washington Square Park Fountain
Greenwich Village

The summer is over. As adventurous and full of surprises and discoveries as it was, it feels so good to be back to New York and to the routines of “back to work” life. I embrace the beginning of my favorite season – the autumn. Ah! Diving right into the daily grind feels so much better when the air is finally cooling down, and even the summer-hot days turn into breezy evenings. Seasons are suddenly appreciated that much more.

To whoever is reading this – I hope your summer was as joyful as mine. I hope you are finding pleasure in getting back to your life and to the city where your home is, the one that was patiently waiting for your return. In my case it is the best city of all – hello, New York, I have missed you!

Last splashes of summer.

PS. No, the kids are not mine:).

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE NY MEMORY?

2010-06-25T23:16:00.002-04:00

Most of the street vendors sell the same pictures, same paintings, same fun and funny mementos of the city they represent. Once in a while you would stumble across something unique. SoHo in my opinion has the most diversity in the choice of the artistic expressions. However, just because I live nearby, this is the vendors outside of the Metropolitan Museum of Art that I am the most familiar with. Today, passing by the familiar row of vendors, I saw somebody new. The thing is it was impossible to pass him without stopping. His choice of art that is meant to keep your memories alive about New York, is to paint it on a t-shirt. On the spot he creates what is the most dear to you. You got smitten by the Brooklyn Bridge, fell under the spell of Central Park, got mesmerized by the Guggenheim, or just had a stroll with your love in the Village? You have a chance to take it with you – on your t-shirt.

His name is Soheil Tavakoli. And please do follow the link – you will be amazed by his story. He is an architect and an artist-painter from Tehran, Iran. He’s been living in US for the past several years, not too long in New York. Whenever he has time for this, he enjoys making his drawings on T-shirts on the spot. It is an artistic expression, and an immediate appreciation. And he is really good! The drawings he makes for the t-shirts capture the mood and the pace of the city, giving a snapshot of little details so particular to New York. The one that you see on the picture is made for a lovely young woman from Canada. She was patiently waiting for it to be done – it takes Soheil about 40 minutes to finish one t-shirt. And I have to say – this is very much the Guggenheim I know! And I see it all the time. There were other drawings – including of women with dogs on a NY street (I know, very close to my heart subject; only the dogs were really little, and mine of course is huge).

Well, I am always curious about the art of the street vendors, but this is the first time I am tempted. I know a number of people who would be happy to get a small present – a t-shirt with their favorite part of our beloved city;). Hm… The possibilities are endless!

PEEK-A-BOO

2010-06-24T22:51:00.002-04:00

It’s been very hot in New York lately, and especially today! By nighttime it felt like everything went into the slow motion. And moon, almost full, added to the leisurely pace. It was so beautiful, peeking out from behind the lavender clouds!

AND THEY LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER...

2010-06-21T22:56:00.000-04:00

At first I thought I got lucky – to spot this old-fashioned taxicab is indeed a bit of a miracle. But then I realized there was a reason this rare cab was parked on Mott Street, right outside the church. There was a wedding! I am not sure if the cab was to be the newlyweds’ transportation for the day, but it would make sense – a quintessential New York moment!

Beautiful bride, lovely day, amazing city, the whole life to look forward to… Ah…

Imagine the possibilities!:)

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

2010-06-20T19:20:00.001-04:00

It’s Father’s Day today! To every man who happens to be somebody’s dad – happy Father’s Day!

Yes, true, there is a big commercial part in this sort of “days”, but it doesn’t take away from the real meaning.

The subjects of my post today are a father and his two sons doing a weekend shopping. The boys were full of energy and couldn’t stop prancing around carrying their part of grocery bags. Three of them have created a procession, stretching along the street. This shopping trip was obviously a fun thing rather than a boring domestic chore for them. And this, I think, is the art of being a great father – turning a routine into a festive event. At least that’s what my Dad was known for, and immensely loved as a father. He just knew what the joy of life was about. And that without losing a bit in being “all that” – successful, responsible, strong – as society demands.

I happen to know a number of wonderful dads. For their children they are not only loving, caring and incredibly supportive, but also are fun, silly, playful and great examples of taking life as an adventure. To them and especially to the one who is my kid’s dad - you are the best, darling:) – happy Father’s Day!!!

LEGS.

2010-06-19T20:57:00.001-04:00

I mentioned before that unless you drive a motorcycle, the fastest way to cross Manhattan is subway.

Today I was running really late and had to get to the downtown from the Upper East Side really fast. The wise choice for me was the subway. And so the picture for today’s post is from there.

The dress code for the hot days (it was+30C!) is non-existent in NYC. It is up to your heat tolerance and your social limitations. But I have to say – you will definitely see much more daring approach to fashion on a hot day in NY than let’s say on a hot day in Paris or London … well, maybe not in Rome or Barcelona. But definitely compared to the one in Genève!

Taking a subway ride you should expect parade of bare legs, shoulders and an incredibly confident attitude that puts everything into the right places. And here I will just quote Meg Ryan from “You’ve got mail”:

“Don’t you just LOVE New York?”

36 GRAMERCY PARK EAST

2010-06-18T20:34:00.000-04:00

This area gets its name from the Gramercy Park - the only private park remaining in Manhattan, which dates back to 1831, and is accessible only to the residents of the 39 buildings surrounding this park. The area is peaceful and slow-paced, and would have a bit old-fashioned charm if it wasn’t for the fact that it is also one of the trendiest and most prized places in Manhattan.

The building number 36 is a stand-out even among the prestigious real estate of Gramercy. It is well-known both for its beauty and history. Interestingly, it was a rental building and just recently got converted into condominium.

NAUGHTY AND NICE.

2010-06-16T11:56:00.000-04:00

This dog must have a comfortable place next to the window – I stopped by a café across the street and, for about an hour, whenever I looked up he was there, watching life pass by. This is a bull terrier – a breed with a controversial reputation. Many people find them scary. This one looked quite sweet – with expressive face and ears!:) So I found the name of the store right underneath “his” window to be very appropriate: “Naughty and Nice”.

Can you spot the doggy on a street picture? This is in the West Village by the way.

BIG BAMBU.

2010-06-14T23:19:00.000-04:00

When I went to the Metropolitan Museum couple of days ago (see the previous post), I took several pictures of the new exhibition on the roof – Big Bambú by Doug and Mike Starn.

For those not familiar with this, the Met’s Roof serves very often as an extension of the museum, providing space for some very interesting shows. This one is really unusual. Instead of sculptures there is a … forest! Densely “growing” bamboo makes you find your way in this hand-made jungle. The cool part is that this whole structure is actually “growing”! It is constantly in the process of development. Every Monday, when museum is closed, the “bamboo” team works on the expansion of the structure. The exhibition has opened at the end of April, and by the time of its closing on October 31st it is going to be a completely different vision.

If you are in NY during this time, don’t miss the Bambú! You can actually climb on top of the structure (see the picture with “stairs”?), but not by yourself. It is a guided tour for which you should reserve a space. No, I didn’t go up yet.

Let me know if you need more information about the tours and the Big Bambú, and I will be happy to send you all the links.

ANOTHER KIND OF SKYLINE.

2010-06-12T01:00:00.001-04:00

A view from the roof of the Metropolitan Museum of Art - one of the most romantic spots in Manhattan. Come up, have a drink, and enjoy the Central Park skyline, along with the most magnificent sunset (if you come on Friday or Saturday when Met has late hours).

WRITING ON THE WALL.

2010-06-11T12:47:00.000-04:00

Wall on Spring Street, next to café Balthazar. Somebody had an urge to express him/herself.

Have an adventurous weekend everybody!

CHARACTERS WELCOME.

2010-06-10T19:52:00.000-04:00

Chess game on Union Square.

GOOD LUCK!

2010-06-09T13:26:00.000-04:00

Graduation for the girls from Spence.

Spence is one of the oldest schools in Manhattan. It is an all-girls school and is known for the rigorous approach to education. It is a well respected institution among the parents and the most demanding universities and colleges. Let’s wish these girls the best of luck in whatever they are doing next!

I SEE ... A FAMILY.

2010-06-08T22:00:00.000-04:00

TAKE A BREAK.

2010-06-07T17:49:00.001-04:00

A little break in the middle of a busy Monday. Midtown is full of office buildings. Truly serious mood reins here on week days, especially on Monday! But if you need to get away, if only for some minutes, there are small islands of serenity in the midst of hectic Manhattan. This one is on 53rd street, between Fifth and Madison Avenue. The sound of waterfall is loud enough to cover the traffic noise. And that is a welcomed change.

Wishing you a lovely week!

ON THE RIVER.

2010-06-06T16:47:00.004-04:00

Between two bridges - Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge.

It is a hot day in New York today. I found myself exploring the East River - perfect timing, because the breeze and the water make it just about bearable.

MARBLE BEDROOM

2010-06-05T17:52:00.001-04:00

Salon 94 is a contemporary art gallery, which occupies the ground level of a townhouse, where the owner lives with her family.

This is the first furniture exhibition of Paris-based fashion designer Rick Owens. I happened to like his approach to fashion very much, so my interest for his talent, applied elsewhere, is a natural outcome. I also love the concept of a mini-gallery as an extension of a home. The exhibition is really just one room, the bedroom. The Marble Bed (enormous!!!) that you see on the picture was sold for $216,000! Not sure about mink curtains though.

Salon 94 has a downtown branch – Salon 94 Freeman’s – where the space is generous for large exhibitions. And there is a new addition that is about to be opened in September, the third exhibition space, Salon94 Bowery, also downtown.

This one though, at 12 East 94th Street, is special. In addition to a very interesting choice of exhibits, it has an intimate feel of visiting somebody’s home.

AFTERNOON STROLL

2010-06-04T21:32:00.000-04:00

It was such a typical summer day today – sunny, hot and humid. The late afternoon, even though still very warm, came with a bit of relief: a light breeze. Perfect for a family promenade, as we can see.

Wishing everybody a wonderful weekend!

THE HANDS THAT BUILD THE HOUSE.

2010-06-03T13:16:00.001-04:00

I just love the subject of my post today!

For many many months now I am passing by a major construction that is going on in my neighborhood. The site is one of the buildings of Ralph Lauren flagship complex on 72nd and Madison. I saw the old building being demolished and now am witnessing the birth of a new one. When it is finished, it is supposed to compliment in style and beauty the building that is just across Madison Avenue, also a part of Ralph Lauren Boutique, - the magnificent Rhinelander Mansion, a French Renaissance revival.

I always wondered about the people who are working on something so rare for the New York construction scene. Obviously, they are masters of their trade, so they have probably a vast experience with some interesting examples of architecture. But working on a replica of such a splendor… It must be quite something.

So, finally, I came to the subject of my post – the hands that build that house:). Please meet Jim, Max, Dario, Mike, Navel and lovely Tanisha. From this day on I will always think of them whenever I see this new building – while it is being born, and when it is finished and unravels itself in its full glory. I am sure the building will have a playful smile, warm heart and pure goodness built into its DNA – coming from these people I wouldn’t expect any different.

I have to mention – they were sitting just like this, in a perfectly balanced, full of character, group, when I was passing by and made a bee-line backwards to ask permission to take their picture. Tanisha is the most relaxed and feminine girl - the perfect “cherry on top” of this male formation!

Thank you! Looking forward to seeing you all when I pass this place again, and again, and again…

WAY TO ART.

2010-06-02T15:08:00.000-04:00

The artist of this elaborate chalk painting on the sidewalk outside of Carlyle Hotel counts on the attention of art patrons – a typical crowd at the tony and classy Bar and Café at Carlyle. Although it could be the proximity of an art Gallery that inspired the chalk artist to show his skills. The Helly Nahmad Gallery, that is specializing in Impressionist and Modern Art, including regular representation of Picasso, is just next door.

The chalk painting has a phone number on a side for those with an interest.

DUMB LOOKS... FREE

2010-06-01T13:44:00.001-04:00

Today is the First of month, the Theme Day.

The Theme for today is "Funny Signs". This one is from one of the vendors at Union Square. I suppose the vendor was getting exasperated with never-ending questions from the never-ending flow of never-ending crowd.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

GONE FISHING.

2010-05-31T16:09:00.001-04:00

Empty Park Avenue???

It is Memorial Day today.

And this is Park Avenue, usually bustling with hectic traffic typical for Manhattan. Not today though. The feel actually is surreal. I was choosing between this and an identical picture without the dog. Without, it could look like I just caught a rare moment of emptiness. But no, this is a general mood on the Upper East Side this morning. Everybody left. Well, speaking relatively of course.

The Memorial Day marks the start of summer. This is a “long” weekend (3 days) around which many choose to add days off, turning it into a mini-vacation. This is the weekend when the beaches are officially declared open and many families make their first long trip to summer houses, emptying the streets of residential parts of Manhattan. The summer mood installs itself all over, and this is a welcomed change. I personally love New York during summer.

If you click on the picture, you will see on the background the MetLife Building which is located 40-something blocks away – it towers over the Grand Central on 42nd street.

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, commemorates U.S. soldiers who died while in the military service and dates back to 1868. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. Soon it was picked up by all states. Since 1971 Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday of May. And since 2000 on this day at 3 in the afternoon all Americans are asked “To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence”.

BACK HOME!!!

2010-05-30T12:06:00.000-04:00

It doesn’t matter if your journey takes you away to some beautiful places. Coming back home and seeing THIS – priceless. That’s what makes New York so special – returning from a long trip I would not choose any other spot on the planet to be landing to in order to get home. It is hot, it is smelly, it is loud and often dirty, yet it is so … alive!

A trip to a lovely place, a meal of fresh (????) oysters, and then being horribly sick from them forever – ah là là là! That’s why I will not tell where I went;). To knock somebody out for almost three weeks… that was one angry oyster I’d say!

So good to be back.

MORNING

2010-05-11T22:43:00.000-04:00

THE ROAD IS OPEN

2010-05-10T22:48:00.001-04:00

This little boy was on the way from a toy shop with his dad. The subway car was somewhat crowded and all the eyes were on him. The basketball and soccer ball (European football) were not the only choices: his father also had a baseball, still in its original package. The little kid was absolutely overwhelmed with so many temptations!

The good thing is that all three games are not only popular to watch, but also to be involved in. Starting from a very young age boys and girls get into some sport, and these three – soccer, basketball and baseball – are among the most popular choices. So for this kid the road is open! In a couple of years he will make a choice what ball he wants to play with the most.

WHATEVER LOLA WANTS...

2010-05-09T22:11:00.001-04:00

Yep, that’s the name of this white cute fluff - Lola.

This couple (and Lola of course!) represents a typical weekend mood on a warm sunny morning in Manhattan. Yes, during the week the dress code is restricted (although not as it is in some other countries) and the pace is … well, fast. The weekends though are relaxed, both in the appearance and in the choice of activities.

Weekend brunch (a late breakfast flowing slowly into lunch) at a table outside on a sidewalk is very often the best time to catch up with friends and family. I definitely prefer sitting outside: yes, my giant dog issue:). My favorite neighborhoods for this are West Village and Nolita. These areas are completely different from what we all are used to whenever we imagine Manhattan – no skyscrapers, no wide avenues. On the contrary, buildings are low, the ambiance is more “neighborhoody”, the cafés are plenty, and the little boutiques tend to have a name on them rather than the title of some behemoth fashion chain. Love it! Would I prefer to live there? No! My aforementioned giant dog needs her “backyard” – Central Park. We are happy though that we have downtown for such needed doze of calming bliss.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2010-05-08T21:40:00.002-04:00

“Making the decision to have a child - It's momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.”- Elizabeth Stone

This Sunday, May 9th, is Mother’s Day in many countries of the world.

Happy Mother’s Day! - to you, to your mum, and to a special mum you know.

This picture is from Café Gitane in the West Village on Jane street.

WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER 2&3.

2010-05-06T23:55:00.019-04:00

The home to some grand American financial institutions like American Express and Merrill Lynch. The offices of the Wall Street Journal are also there.

ALWAYS THERE

2010-05-05T23:30:00.001-04:00

Time Square Subway station.

The name of the K-9 dog is Maddux. Born in 2007, he has been “in service” for more than a year now, working side by side with his human partner Stephen. Their team – a dog and a man - is specializing in patrol, tracking, evidence recovery and criminal apprehension.

Stephen and Maddux have been assigned to this area long before the last week’s events. They are monitoring the Time Square along with other Dog Patrol teams. Whenever I pass by, somebody is always there.

THE MORNING AFTER

2010-05-04T23:55:00.001-04:00

When I was passing the Metropolitan Museum of Art on my way to work this morning, I saw this scene: a crew of cleaners was hard at work, washing the steps of the Met and the surrounding area. It felt very much like bringing back in order your own place after some eventful party.

Last night there was a big celebration in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Costume Institute Gala, an equivalent of the Oscar for the fashion world, is an annual event, and attracts all sorts of famous personalities, not only those who are in fashion. You can read about the festivities in many newspapers. A lot of them are placing the pictures from the event on their front pages.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

2010-05-03T23:24:00.001-04:00

North Park in Battery Park City, next to the Hudson River.

Minutes from where the towers of World Trade Center once stood.

MORNING WASH

2010-05-02T23:34:00.002-04:00

The mornings on beautiful days like this are in particular special here, in Manhattan. Early, before it gets busy, the doormen are coming out to wash the sidewalks. The sunny streets are sparkling clean, and there is a very distinct smell of the wet asphalt, the smell of the city. Manhattan is waking up to another amazing day. I wish I could bottle this happy feel!

On the picture is Gabriel – a lovely doorman who has been working in the same building for more than 30 years. He is a sweet , caring and dignified man. He too, loves this kind of mornings – he treats his part of beautifying his city with pride, and enjoys the “washing” routine, which he worked out to perfection. It is always fun to watch him. And when he sees you, the kindest smile lights up his whole face. Good morning! And your dog gets a treat;). Ah, life is beautiful!

If you walk just half a block pass Gabriel, there will be Fifth Avenue, Central Park and Metropolitan Museum of Art. So this is Upper East Side, between Madison and Fifth Ave.

JULIET...

2010-05-01T00:45:00.004-04:00

…and her Romeo.

They are forever in each other’s embrace. Lovers’ dream.

Today is the 1st, which means it is a Theme Day. Here you will see the pictures from all the participants.The theme of today is "Statues".

Standing right outside Delacorte Theatre in Central Park, this statue is a tribute to Shakespeare, whose plays are performed here every summer. And this picture is my tribute to the dear to my heart Verona and to all Romeos and Juliets.

Sculpted in 1977 by Milton Hebald, it was a gift to the Central Park from George Delacorte.

FIRST RUNNER-UP: "DILE"

2010-04-30T13:09:00.003-04:00

Amazing day in New York! To find yourself in Central Park on a morning like this – priceless!

“Alice” was for a change not surrounded by a crowd due to an early hour. So here I am, introducing her to you. Please meet “Alice” - a whimsical sculpture of beloved character of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. She is of course not alone. Sitting on a huge mushroom, Alice is surrounded by The Mad Hatter, The March Hare, The Cheshire Cat, The White Rabbit, Alice’s Cat Dinah and Dormouse. This sculpture was commissioned in 1959 by a dear friend of Central Park, the philanthropist George Delacorte. The sculptor José de Creeft based his work on John Tenneil illustration for the first edition of the famous book.

This sculpture is located just steps from the Boat Pond, where you can rent a toy sailboat, making this whole area a children’s favorite.

I know a kid who, when he was very little, was in love with one of the animals from the “Alice” sculpture: a small crocodile. While everybody climbed the statue to the very top, this boy would run straight under the mushroom to say hello to his friend. Not surprising that he gave the statue a different name: Dile . That is how all who know him refer to Alice now. Dile.

SANT AMBROEUS

2010-04-28T23:55:00.001-04:00

If you catch yourself in an urgent need of some to-die-for hazelnut ice cream on the Upper East Side, this is THE place! If this sudden craving happens to you in the SOHO area – wait until I post about Van Leeuwen Ice-Cream truck that parks right in the middle of Greene Street. But that, as I said, is for the other post.

Sant Ambroeus, the Milanese expat, is not only about ice-cream of course! They serve a great cup of espresso (a real one;), they make out-of-this-world pastries that look like architectural jewels, and offer a really tasty menu for lunch and dinner. The second Sant Ambroeuse, in the Village, is more relaxed, with tables outside so that you can bring your dog, which I do once in a while. But I happen to pass this one, on Madison Avenue, often … umm… way too often! That is considering my love for the above mentioned Hazelnut ice-cream. The other place I pass often is a local Gym. Strangely, I don’t find myself being as loyal to it as I am to Sant Ambroeus.

ANOTHER FOGGY DAY...

2010-04-27T23:52:00.001-04:00

It is hard to choose the favorite. When it's sunny, you feel alive. When it is a grey foggy day - it is New York at its best.

WALKING HOME

2010-04-25T23:43:00.000-04:00

Brooklyn Bridge. Rainy, misty night. Sparkling skyscrapers disappear in the fog. This beautiful vision is even more special because this is the walk to my favorite island, this is the walk home.

JOYEUX ANNIVERSAIRE!

2010-04-24T23:55:00.002-04:00

My best friend's Birthday is on Sunday.

That's for him.

Happy Birthday!:))

SISTER MOON...

2010-04-23T02:30:00.001-04:00

“Sister moon will be my guide
In your blue blue shadows I would hide...
...I would gaze at your face the whole night through
I'd go out of my mind, but for you”
/Sting - one of my favorite songs/

I gasped when I saw this, way up above my head.

Stood there mesmerized until suddenly remembered “Blog!!!” Et voilà!
These are the tops of very tall buildings. The one with two windows is on Park Avenue.

Picture is taken from Madison Avenue around 73 street.

THE OTHER KIND OF HEAVEN

2010-04-22T02:30:00.002-04:00

“The Garment Worker”, also known as a “Jewish Tailor” is the most famous work of Judith Weller. Installed in 1984, this statue, along with gigantic button and needle, is a landmark of the Garment District.
No need to remind about the importance and popularity of fashion in New York. The clothing industry not only puts the city among top places when it comes to style and fashion design; it is also one of the city’s largest employers, giving jobs to more than 200,000 people.

The Garment District with its very active life is an interesting place to observe, even if you have no connection to the industry. But if you belong to those who get excited when they see beautiful fabrics, ah, you are either in heaven or … in huge trouble!! Numerous fabric stores line the streets, and the selection is painfully tempting. Good luck leaving empty-handed. The good thing though is that there is a choice for every budget.

So here we go – visit, browse, imagine, buy and create! And then, before you know, you’ll be showing at the Fashion Week!

LE CARROUSEL

2010-04-21T01:43:00.001-04:00

Le Carrousel in Bryant Park right behind the NY Public Library is about the same age as its little riders – it was installed in 2002. Its style matches the French influenced landscape of the Park. To add to the mood, ten ponies, a frog, a rabbit, a cat and a deer are carrying their passengers under the accompaniment of French cabaret music.

It was fun to watch kids and their parents! Many of us have memories of a carrousel from our own childhood . Mine was le manège in Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris. I am sure the little riders of Le Carrousel will keep these moments in their memory for a long time.

THE EYES OF AN ARTIST

2010-04-19T23:14:00.002-04:00

The utterly magnificent and super popular Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) is not my favorite museum in New York, but I would say that it is the one that surprises me most often.

The set of exhibitions that are being held now in MOMA keeps bringing me there over and over again. It is impossible to mention one, or two… without leaving out the others.

I went there today again: this picture is from an exposition “Marina Abramovic: the artist is present”. Here is the link for those who are interested in detailed description. The post would be enormously long if I attempted to describe her works. Her art is in action, and in the way it affects the viewer. She is present, just as the title of the show suggests . She is the one dressed in red on the picture. She sits still the whole day, almost every day, while her MOMA exposition lasts. The person across from her is yet another visitor, taking invitation to sit across the table and lock the eyes with the artist. And you can see it LIVE during the museum hours.

If you are in New York, really make an effort to stop by MOMA. For the whole day!

There is Tim Burton exhibition – is it even possible that all these creatures are products of the imagination of just one mind?!?!

Then there is an amazing retrospective of Henri Cartier-Bresson. He could be called the first city blogger ever!!!

And then there is an incredible William Kentridge!..

I am not going any further, because there is so much to list! And it is even without mentioning the permanent collection.

FOUSTANELLA ON FIFTH

2010-04-18T23:45:00.002-04:00

Every year, since 1951, Fifth Avenue hosts the Greek Independence Day Parade. It attracts a great number of New York participants and viewers, and it is the largest Greek parade in the country. The event happens in April, even though the exact date of the Greece Independence Day is March 25th.

This little kid was so proud of marching among adults in his Foustanella*! I had to choose him for this post!

*Foustanella is a pleated white skirt made by triangular shaped pieces of cloth. The Foustanella skirt consists of 400 pleats symbolizing the years during which Greece was under Ottoman rule. (And no, I didn’t know this. But now I do. A very pleasant side-effect of having this blog: it makes you research the most unexpected things!)

Happy late Independence Day to Manolis, a Greek friend of mine now living in London!

HAVE A SAFE FLIGHT!

2010-04-17T23:30:00.002-04:00

The sky is on everybody‘s mind these days. Here is the picture of what I see whenever I look up – very typical for the midtown Manhattan. The sky was clear and very much “flyable” today in New York. Wishing the same for my dear Europe!

It just happens that many people in the circle of my close friends and family are constantly traveling. Today one of my closest friends from Genève is flying to Nigeria. With my wishes of the safe flight to him I am hoping things are going to get better for everybody who is stranded in one of the affected airports.

AND THE WINNER IS...

2010-04-15T23:55:00.001-04:00

Another way to move around Manhattan – PEDICAB!!!!

There are more than 800 of them registered in New York. It all started with several bikes in the East Village in 1995. Surprisingly, only 5 months ago, at the end of November 2009, the city came up with citywide Pedicab regulations!

I never tried riding in one. They seem to be popular with New York visitors: it must be a fun way to experience the city if you are not too much into walking.

If you are curious about how practical it is, here is video of the race between a taxi and a Pedicab around Manhattan – ha! Who knew?;)

This picture is taken on Fifth Avenue between 53rd and 54th streets. The traffic is intense there in the middle of the day. I wonder if the bikers still have fun when it is so busy.

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN...

2010-04-14T23:50:00.006-04:00

... and I did!

It is just a moment – a day, or two - and then the flowers are gone!

I took this picture of blooming Magnolia trees next to Cleopatra’s Needle, right behind the Met Museum in Central Park.
I am always amazed at how short the spring is here, in New York. It feels like there is winter, and the next thing you know – summer is in full bloom, accompanied by the first heat wave and mass swimming in the ocean. Change of seasons creates routines, expectations and memories. Mine are completely mixed-up since I moved here. So I try to catch the spring while I can, appreciating it even more due to its short life. And it is breathtaking! The trees blossom in all shades of pink and limitless intensity of white – a sudden, incredibly tender and feminine touch for the tough New York.

PARIS HAS PYRAMID. NEW YORK HAS APPLE.

2010-04-13T23:24:00.000-04:00

According to The Huffington Post, New York is the most photographed city in the world. Paris, please don’t hold it against me! I love you with all my heart and I am just a messenger!

But the surprising fact is that the Apple store on Fifth Avenue is more photographed than Statue of Liberty!!! That is bizarre. Of course, there is a very simple explanation to it – you have to make an effort to get to the Statue of Liberty, even for a distant shot. The Apple store is right in the middle of … everything! That explains I suppose. Still, it is also the 28th most photographed landmark in the world! Not that I have anything against it… Yet I am surprised about its popularity stand on a world scale. Of course, it is also just one study.

Tonight, while most of the tourists were taking pictures of my dog trying to jump into the fountain (in which case I would have to pay a fee of $150!!!) I took the picture of the Apple Cube. It is just across Fifth Avenue from the Plaza Hotel and from the entrance to the Central Park. This area is always busy, especially during the day, when tourists mix up with the local professionals from the surrounding businesses. To have a picture of the Cube in daylight and without the crowds I have to wake up at 4 or 5 in the morning. I will brave it one day. And for now, just a shot from an evening walk with the dog.

DRESS ME!

2010-04-12T22:41:00.003-04:00

Just another way to spend a warm afternoon:).

I took this picture passing by the Union Square (14 street). The sign, that the girl is holding, says “DRESS ME”, and the idea is very simple: choosing from the pile of clothing, you are invited to dress anybody from this group. So, if you always thought that your true calling was to be a stylist, here is your chance to show what the world is missing!

And no, I didn’t dress anybody. They were having too much fun just standing there and wearing … well, almost nothing! Ah, so New York!;)

SOHO STABLES

2010-04-11T23:15:00.000-04:00

The fastest way to move around Manhattan is motorcycle. And subway;). No, not a taxi for sure. Rollerblades? Maybe.

This is SOHO, Prince Street. This area is full of many options for dinner outside, very appropriate for such a nice evening. And then - a beautiful ride home!

Falling Man

2010-04-10T23:45:00.000-04:00

This is Chelsea. The place is “The Cell” (338 West 23rd Street), a venue for literary readings, theatre and music performances, drawing sessions, and many other art related activities. The neon figure is the “Falling Man” by Craig Kraft, one of the leading American neon sculptors.

The "Falling Man" found its permanent place a year ago on the façade of the Cell Theatre after travelling the world since its creation in 1995. Some think that the man is actually dancing on the ledge, some see him climbing…

In the neighborhood full of restaurants, where the attention is drawn to the ground floor of the buildings, this neon colorful figure stands out on the background of the dark windows high above the ground. Chelsea is known for a relaxed atmosphere, coming to life late at night. The “Falling Man” lights up in tune with the surrounding – with the night’s arrival.

WILL YOU...

2010-04-09T23:57:00.003-04:00

Not that I am proposing, OR it is a proposal to me. But this is definitely something that you will see here often – the dedications of the Central Park benches. I will be honest – some of them make me cry. Not this one though.
This one – well, I hope that all worked out for Keturah and her incredibly romantic fiancé, and she said “yes” (should I look for the bench?), and they got married.
FYI, the dedication of a bench doesn’t come cheap. But it lasts a lifetime. I have been following the “benches” for a while now, and have my favorites. Not all of them are happy.

If you are curious about how much it would cost, it starts around $7,500 going up to around $25,000 for a hand-made ”rustic” bench.

LAST TOUCH

2010-04-08T23:41:00.003-04:00

It looks like there was concern that just a “Wet Paint” warning wasn’t enough to prevent tired tourists from sitting down on these benches. “Wanna bet” did the trick though, plus made people smile. You might need to click on the picture to read the sign.

This is the Channel Gardens Promenade at the Rockefeller Center, a very pretty place right in the middle of many attractions of the midtown. Right before Easter I saw the gardeners bringing in the flowers and installing new decorations to welcome the season. Painting the benches is the last touch and hopefully there will be no “betting”!

This Promenade, adorned now with fragrant white lilies, is an area between Fifth Avenue and the sunken plaza with an ice-rink. The sculpture that you see on the picture is one of several fountainheads, creation of René Chambellan, an American sculptor who studied in Paris and New York, and became famous for his architectural sculpture.

I will post a picture of the Promenade in its full Spring glory in a few days.

SAKURA

2010-04-07T10:56:00.000-04:00

Ah, it is an amazing morning, and New York is blooming! One of those moments when nothing beats the nature when it comes to beauty. Happy Spring everybody!

MAKING A POINT AND GETTING NOTICED

2010-04-06T23:03:00.000-04:00

A sight of a 10-foot (roughly 3 meters) inflatable rat on the street of a busy business part of Manhattan should raise an eye brow, right? No. Not if you are accustomed to seeing quite a lot of them. Amazing how people get used to the strangest things. These Rats (sometimes inflatable Cockroaches too!) are used by different unions to show that they have a labor dispute. The truck carrying one of those Rats is placed in front of the building that houses the company in question. This particular one was in connection to a protest against exposure to asbestos. The only people noticing this giant fixture were the tourists and ... me!:)

BEFORE SUMMER TAKES OVER

2010-04-05T21:30:00.002-04:00

Before summer takes over and the green of the trees blocks the view (not that anybody would mind!), here is a stretch of Central Park West "skyline". As you might know, the buildings surrounding the Park on its West, South and East sides are a part of the most coveted real estate not only in New York, but in the country.

You are looking at the stretch from 71st to 75th street of the Central Park West, a very desirable area to call home.

Starting from the left, there are 29 stories high twin towers of the Majestic, an art deco apartment building, constructed in 1930-1931.

Next to the right is the legendary Dacota (1884), which became tragically famous when one of its most celebrated residents John Lennon was killed in 1980. His wife Yoko Ono still lives there, and the Strawberry Fields Memorial ("Imagine") is located right across the street, in Central Park.

Next, just a little taller than Dacota, is Langham, built in 1904. This elegant building has its own fascinating story and, as the other buildings, deserves a separate post.

The last on this picture is San Remo (1929). Its twin towers are the tallest along Central Park West. This residential skyscraper is considered to be one of the most prestigious addresses.

HAPPY EASTER!

2010-04-04T21:35:00.003-04:00

Today’s picture is a traditional take on this beautiful celebration: Saint Patrick’s Cathedral.

It faces Rockefeller Center and takes up the whole block between 50^th and 51^st Streets. I will post about it again and not once, but this time will mention the international part of its history - my family and friends in Europe will be happy to have such a connection! In addition to the talented artists from Boston, the artists from Chartres (France) and Birmingham (England) were involved into making the stunning windows of the Cathedral. Plus, the beautiful Pieta is a work of the Italian master Araldo Perugi. Another Italian, Paolo Medici, is a creator of Saint Elizabeth altar.

IT'S A DOG'S LIFE

2010-04-03T18:31:00.005-04:00

Every morning it is a dog’s heaven in Central Park. Although during the day the rules are very strict about keeping your pooch on a leash, the morning hours before 9am belong to ever-growing community of dogs and their people. The same is for the evening hours after 9pm. There are limitations still, but it is fair to say that the park becomes a playground for one of the most spoiled layer of Manhattan population. This picture was taken right behind the Metropolitan Museum of Art, between the entrances on 79th and 85th streets.

It should be noted that the law of picking up after your dog is reinforced in the park as much as in the rest of the city. As the dogs leave, the next wave of daily tenants rolls in to play on the same grounds – the kids have their own heaven here, but that’s for a different post.

I must add that making this post one of the first ones in my new blog is not an accident. Whenever I am starting the day with the morning walk in the park with my dog, it is a happy day. So I try to make it there as often as I can, almost every day. My rambunctious giant poodle absolutely loves “bumping” into her friends there, makes sure the squirrels know their place (high up on a tree) and there are no stray tennis balls lying around (we have a collection of her park trophies). Whenever I return from the travels, the morning walk in Central Park signifies “I am back home”.

PS. If you want to see the “dog-friendly” map of Central Park, click here.

WINTER IN THE SUMMER

2010-04-02T13:01:00.006-04:00

It is a magnificent day in New York today – sunny and warm (+16°C in the morning with a promise to reach +25°C!) and the city is alive and happy in anticipation of a beautiful weekend. It is going to be a busy one too. Easter and Spring Break always attract crowds.

Today’s picture is of a very dear to my heart place - the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink. On my first visit to New York I stayed just steps away from the Rockefeller Center, and it was the first place I went to see. Looking at the Rink, I thought that if I lived in NY I would surely be skating here all the time. Many years later, I still have this feel of excitement whenever I look at the skaters. And yes, I skate too, not as often as I thought I would though. It is always special and a lot of fun. The trick is not to expect it to be any sort of serious sport or artistic expression activity! It is just for the mood – the lights, the music, the surrounding. One of those New York moments.

By the way, it is a popular place for marriage proposals. There is even an Engagement Package that is being offered for such an occasion, to make it more… romantic, I suppose. And speaking of – the best time to skate with romance in mind is the last couple of hours on Friday and Saturday when the Rink is open until midnight. It is not too crowded, kids are in bed (for the most part), and the mood is festive but mellow at the same time. It is especially pleasant when the weather is warm, like today. Hm… Writing about it, I am realizing I haven’t done it for a while. I think I have just made plans for tonight!

The Rink will be open until April 18^th this year, so if you want to catch the skating time, or if you are in a proposing mood – you still can make it!

RED PASSION

2010-04-01T23:31:00.003-04:00

Today is the first of the month, which means it is a Theme day , and the theme of today is RED! How lucky to be starting this photo-blog on a day for which, thanks to color, I have the most appropriate picture. It captures two of my greatest passions – Manhattan and Ducati. It also reflects the idea of this blog: to follow my passion for New York, and have the camera ready to be able to share this amazing city with my friends from different countries.

Ducati is a perfect fit for Manhattan. Somewhat industrial looking, although undeniably an example of design masterpiece, it is just as functional and efficient. The word ”survival” comes to mind in connection to both.

Please click here to see the Theme Day pictures of all the participants of the City Daily Photo Blogs.