Cityjournal
In these writing I reflect upon my time, journeys and impressions of cities of the world, some in which I have lived, some that I have visited, and some that I have performed in. The urban experience and vibe greatly influence all of my artistic expression.
Philadelphia This is the city of my birth. This city is filled with vibrant and passionate people and the birthplace of our nation, but it has a dark cloud over it due to the decay brought upon by crime, drugs, violence, and corruption. I feel that the city has failed to reach it's potenial, and geographically, many sections are unsafe and decrepit. From parts of Overbrook where I am from up to Kensington's nationally infamous "Bad Lands", Philadelphia has problems. The political focus of the city has been directed to the thriving Center City traditionally with seemingly little or no concern about the non tourist and non commercial areas. There are miles and miles of sections, especially past north Broad Street, where it seems like there is no love for the city at all. The Mural Arts Program is a highlight of my city, and I have been honored to work with them on my Grad Thesis about the emergence of murals in the city born from street graffiti. There is a wave of fashionable hipster immigration to the city in some of the sections near social outlets and universities, many from Pennsylvania suburbs. This is good in one way because having popular neighborhoods attract business, but the downside is that for some it creates a pseudo urban identity crisis with some of the cultural snobbery you see in sections of NYC. If you have been to certain art galleries or music events in Philadelphia then you may know what I mean. However there are also a lot of individuals who creatively strive to help, heal, teach, and build up the city and it's more challenged residents. Philadelphia has often been described as the most "American City" and could also serve as a microcosm of not only the nation, but of the world. It is a city that is a beautiful paradox, poet's dream, and a haven for those who want to be alone and around others at the same time.
New York City
Dublin
Barcelona
Boston
San Fransisco
Ahens