Orchard Beach (The Bronx Riviera)

Orchard Beach is a mile long sliver of constructed landscape situated in the North Bronx with a history as complex as the borough itself. Built in the 1930s, “The Bronx Riviera” has served as a workingman’s oasis for generations. At Orchard Beach everyone has a story to tell, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to listen. With this work, however, I am more interested in the “now” and how it hints at the past through the eyes of folks who have known this beach all of their lives.

My journey over four summers has been a meditation of sorts. Amidst all of the activity there, I walk in silence constantly searching for connections that reveal emotions hidden beneath the surface of this eroded landscape. I rely on my instincts and find that I am drawn to rituals of youth, love, familial bonds, cultural pride, and relationships that have withstood life’s tests. There is a sense of community at Orchard Beach. Whenever I make that journeyI know that I am witnessing history being made, and I approach my subjects as though the most important thing at that moment is that we are present.