Governor's Island

Governor's Island got its current name in 1784 when the island was under British control "for the benefit and accommodation of His Majesty's Governors." Its strategic location made it suitable for a military facility for the next 200 years.



The land mass of the island was increased using rocks and dirt excavations from the Lexington Avenue Subway line.



In 1811, the Army completed construction of Castle Williams with 8 foot thick walls to defend against artillery.



After other various uses and occupations throughout history, the island was used for recruitment and as a prison for Confederate soldiers during the American Civil War.



In 1966, the island was turned over to the Coast Guard, who occupied it until 1995.



On January 31, 2003 the island was sold to the people of New York for $1 to be used for public benefit.

Here's an interesting juxtaposition of unrelated objects that placed together certainly make a statement.

Figment Art Festival 2008

The other weekend was the annual art festival, Figment, out on Governor's Island. We braved the heat to check it out.

A big hit was the hula hoops. Every size and color imaginable allowed the crowd to get their hoop on to the DJ's pumpin' music.



An annual tradition...Limbonade.



There were several people covered in one color each who were all over the island coloring in abstract chalk art on the ground. People grabbed chalk and joined in.

Here's on elaborate outline by the water.



Mr. Yellow.



Fun with panning! (and padded clubs)



An interesting shot of obscure art with the Manhattan skyline as the back drop.



My personal favorite was the kiddie pool full of rose petals. Fun and it smelled good!

Coney Island Empty

With the impending changes and it's reputation otherwise, I headed out for some scenes of the more desolate side of Coney Island. I'll let the photos speak for themselves this time.

Coney Island Enjoyed

Here are some shots of Coney Island taken on the same day as the Mermaid Parade, that could however, be almost any day.

A busy day at the famous Nathan's for hot dogs.



On the boardwalk. Nice belly dude.



This big dog was a hit with all sorts of passersby. People's reactions were quite entertaining. I thought it was a nice moment.

Last of the Mermaids

Here are some shots of other people that were hanging out in the staging area.

Here's the guy off to the side staring at all of the women. Despite his intentions, I liked the set up with the painted wall behind him.



This little boy is anxious to get the parade going.



More people coming in with their props.



This was a very typical scene with the girl surrounded by photographers. This was one of the more tame versions of the scene.



This is what was happening outside on the street as people gathered early to get a good spot.

Mermaid Parade Characters

Here are some more shots from the Coney Island Mermaid Parade. This is a collection of individuals I encountered in the staging area or in line.

Loved the eyelashes!



You couldn't miss this guy!



More fun with the Cyclone in the background. A very disturbing Ronald McDonald.



A few more preparation shots.





There's even more to come, so stay tuned!

Coney Island Mermaid Parade 2008

I ventured to Coney Island on Saturday to document the Mermaid Parade with oh...about a zillion other people. I paid my $5 camera fee and ventured into the staging area. This was the jackpot for photos and what I imagine it would be like to be a real deal press photographer. I had to jockey for position, duck, bob, weave...I kinda felt bad for the real press with all of us in there too, but what are you gonna do? Here are some shots of the preparation taking place.

The line to check in.



This poor mermaid wasn't enjoying her time in line with all the cameras and the heat. Trying to cut the edge...



Most people didn't mind the photos...some really didn't mind!



Amateurs, professionals and even other participants all crowded in for the shot.



I loved this angle with the Cyclone in the background.



I wish the light was a little better here, but like this shot.



The wide angle works with this bizarre scene.



I took heaps, so look for more posts soon.