The Village of Harlem NYC has its own unique persona that differs from the rest of the city. The history and people are the lifeblood. The streets are the arteries they traverse and where tourists now travel into—to learn about and live. In 2001, as Central Harlem was in the early stages of this change/gentrification, I was conscientious about what the future holds. The effects this change would have on the historic Harlem vibe, then share the results in a visual story. So began an exploration of what it feels like to walk the village of Harlem—at night! The result, Harlem Nocturnal. Consider this a digital exhibit rather than a newsletter.
Prints available (unframed). Hand-printed archival silver gelatin/8x10 image on 11x14 paper.
The Victoria! It’s been transformed (rechristened) since this photograph was taken.
The long-abandoned Renaissance Ballroom demolished. Now, The Rennie Condos.
Strivers Row, steeped in history beyond just Black Elites during Harlem’s Renaissance.
“Harlem Station” is included in the Harlem, A Century in Image book by Skira/Rizzoli 2010 in association with The Studio Museum in Harlem.
As this series is now twenty-four years old, we're actually able to view the shifts and changes that occurred. Victoria 5 Theater, La Marqueta, Renaissance Ballroom, the bodega—all transformed to various degrees.
These are fifteen of the thirty-seven photographs exhibited at The Gallery at Harlem State Office Building in 2006, and Bronx Library Center/EnFoco Touring Gallery in 2010 . Regrettably not as many people viewed/stopped by the exhibitions as I had wished, nor have seen the series in entirety. I hope to change that at some point. I say it because Harlem Nocturnal is the visual story I’m most proud of in my lifetime—no question! Link to more from the series —> Harlem Nocturnal
As always, I appreciate that you took the time to read, and view through all the photographs.
Til next time…
Kenneth