Why am I moving to New York? The idea sprouted when I visited New York in February to attend the "Jewelry Association Trade Show, New York" (JA NY). I took a four-day solo trip with the intention of determining whether or not exhibiting at this particular trade show would be a good investment for my business. During my stay I felt an immediate and intense connection to New York. I have visited many cities that I like and enjoy, but have never felt such a reaction. I was inspired by the energy. I saw great art. I ate authentic Thai, French, Chinese and Italian food. I found the people friendly and welcoming. I aimlessly walked for hours and hours in awe of my surrounds. The architecture of the massive buildings, the intensity, the density, the wide open avenues. So much to explore in an unfamiliar realm. As for career opportunities in jewelry design and art: endless. I got on the plane home feeling that there was no other option than to move, and I could not wait to get back to New York.
This drawing was done the day after I got home, feeling such a strong pull I felt lifted off my feet. Who holds the cane?
Now it is really happening and I can barely sleep at night. (Lying awake I think of the Beastie Boys singing, "No- sleep- 'till BROOKLYN!")
My interpretation, Britta on stage, being pulled to NYC. Hope we get more illustrations from your perspective! The softness to this drawing looks like a charcoal sketch and has the feeling of an intaglio etching, your expertise.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait for your move to Brooklyn too! I have to admit I'm living vicariously on your journey to New York because that's something I would have loved to experience had I been more independent and confident in my early 20's. I had the same connective response as you did to NYC! Stunning architecture! Fine art, museums, restaurants and the best Broadway but that's all I've had time for in two short trips. New Yorkers were friendly, helpful and polite. I've been eager to go back to NYC to do more exploring since the December we met you on your way home from Italy over Christmas break. Remember the transit strike, leaving us to transport ourselves by foot or in the few available cabs in the bitter, freezing cold temperatures? We still had a great time. My next visits to New York State are sure to be entertaining! The list begins here, starting this summer I'll try a few.
Brooklyn: http://www.athomeinbrooklyn.com/Page.mvc/Get/6. (Prospect Park, Plaza Weekly Green Market.)
Summer weekend on Long Island: http://sunsetbeachli.com/main.html
Luxury Inn on Long Island: http://www.bakerhouse1650.com/index2.htm
A meal at Applewood: http://nyportraits.blogspot.com/search/label/Brooklyn
Workshop at the Manhattan Graphic Center: http://www.manhattangraphicscenter.org/index.html.
Culinary experience at the CIA: http://www.ciachef.edu/restaurants/default.asp
Looking forward to reading about your Brooklyn/NYC experiences and thanks for including us! See you soon!
P.S. Thank you so much for the stunning London Blue Topaz necklace for Mother's Day! Your jewelry designs and expertise continue to amaze me.
Love, Mom
So proud of you, Britta! You're the second Merwick New-Yorker. Kevin lived there...
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to more drawings. Why is your head on backwards in this one?
Love, Aunti Katie
p.s. Jana just wanted you to move there so she would have a place to stay when she shops for shoes! Ha-ha ;-)