The larger crowds at this year's Open House New York were surely a sign of its success, but I was left with mixed feelings.
I really enjoyed the power plant at the Pratt Institute. The old power plant is truly a sign of a bygone era of quieter, reliable equipment and engineering. You didn't have to be a gearhead to appreciate the very tactile nature of this site. Tours are given regularly during the week and I recommend it to everyone.
This building was not participating. I just took the shot because I liked it.
The Highline was a bit of a letdown. In fact, the former meatpacking plant which served as the viewing platform was more interesting in and of itself.
I liked it in 2003 when fewer people knew about it. The crowds were smaller and there were fewer obnoxious aspiring photographers. The Department of Homeland Security has cast a pall over everything. It is moving into the Starrett-Lehigh building, which will surely cause problems for an organization like Mixed Greens. Certain locations introduced a "no photography" policy, like the George Washington Bridge. What other inconveniences are going to come along in the name of "security?"
Related links:
Open House 2003 Day 1
Open House 2003 Day 2
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