"A Night In The Catskills," dedicated to documenting and re-imagining Sullivan County's Borscht Belt legacy during the nighttime. This project aims to capture the poignant transformation of once vibrant resorts, now abandoned or repurposed, highlighting the stark contrast between their lively past and current achromatic reality. This endeavor captures the poignant contrast between the vibrant past and current desolate reality of once resplendent resorts. The project is driven by a desire to rediscover the cultural renaissance of these spaces, preserving art, architecture, and essential narratives at risk of fading away. As a local, my personal connection adds a unique perspective to this visual exploration. My immersive approach involves in-person exploration, research, and collaboration with local communities for access. The silent setup of lights for timed long exposure film images serves as a contemplative practice, acknowledging the impermanence of these locations. As I anticipate the hopeful publication of the work in a comprehensive book, I've exhibited my photographs at several galleries in the Hudson Valley / Catskills region. My plan is to continue showcasing this body work in the future, paired with giving engaging talks/lectures on the history of the era and the way I capture it visually. The Ethelbert B. Crawford Library in Monticello is graciously acting as my fiscal sponsor in this endeavor. All the while, I’m shooting a final series for this project this coming spring.
