When it was time to decide on our locations, my strategy was to set out on a walk and find a place in my future neighborhood that was intriguing to me. I made my way through the upper east side, stopping at a few parks or interesting buildings to take notes and pictures. Meandering east towards the water from 89th and 3rd, I caught a glimpse of a gated driveway and a giant yellow mansion. I went to see what it was, and found myself at Gracie Mansion and Carl Schurz Park. I spent quite a long time there that first day…sketching, taking notes, etc. I loved how quiet and serene it was up there. I have visited the park a number of times since, and every time I go I still feel a sense of magic or mysticism; it seems almost preserved in time.
Through my research, I have uncovered fascinating history about the site of Gracie Mansion and Carl Schurz park. The giant yellow house has been used as a museum, a concession stand, and the official residence of the Mayor of New York, among other things. The Carl Schurz conservancy is the oldest community organized park conservancy in new york. Each summer, there is an artist market that takes place at the park. All of these things, among many others, have lead me to the conclusion that Carl Schurz Park is a very giving place. This is why I want to create a gift to give back.
I am going to focus on the physical history of the site. I have found really amazing old photographs of the park being built, and a lot of info about all the different purposes the land has served. Tying in my personal experience inhabiting the site, I want to speak about the physicality of this location by interacting with it with my body. Using artists and dancers such as as inspiration, I am going to do a performance piece in the park with movement created as a reaction to the physicality of the space, as well as the historical information I have found about it. Combining my studio and seminar projects, I want to create a field guide that covers 7 different specific sites within the park. Entries will include footage of my performed movement interaction with that site and a write up that is a reflection of what is was like to interact with those surfaces, explains historical information, and gives any other relevant observations about that site.
