"Did you ever really need somebody, And really need 'em bad
Did you ever really want somebody, The best love you ever had
Do you ever remember me, baby, did it feel so good
'Cause it was just the first time, And you knew you would"
-Led Zeppelin
"Royalty In Tatters", Oil in Linen, 48" x 30" Grisage portion of the initial block in completed.
Beloved Williamsburg... I moved here because of a love. I stayed here because of a broken heart. I put my pieces back together wandering your streets.
In New York we all have "our" places. We personify cityscape and architecture as if it were able to speak, as if this relationship is a private one. Some of these places we share, most often we do not. It is where we go to be alone. It is where we go to have an ironic laugh or cry bitter tears. It is where we go to get to know ourselves once again. And if these monoliths could speak, oh the stories they could tell.
I have always been transfixed by this building on Berry between North 8th and 9th right around the corner from Hotel Delmano. It's an utter dump. It has all the trimmings of opulence and grandeur yet the busted windows and peeling paint on all the cornices and bannister tell a different tale. I believe Craig's List rentals have advertised life in this building as "bohemian" and "truly artistic". Quite frankly it is totally indicative of life here; never quite sure how the rent is going to be paid yet always dressed in style. Perfect! I'll take it!
I still haven't figured out the economics here, personally I think it is all held together with chewing gum. How does one get anything done around here? Furthermore, why do I love you so much. Regardless I'm disarmed. I have found a place where I belong.