“One time I had a pocket book stolen in Pathmark. I got it back in the US mail, missing my ipod with a note that said ‘do not be a pain and complain too much.’” (From Moving Stories: The Pathmark)
See the Lower East Side through the eyes of people for whom every mile holds deep and vibrant memories.
Born out of a weekly photo workshop and walking group at the Weinberg Center for Balanced Living, Moving Stories: A Senior Led Walking Tour is an exhibition featuring the photographic journeys of senior citizens on the Lower East Side displayed in eight fold-out guides.
Coached by artist Laura Nova, the Moving Stories photo workshop encouraged seniors to exercise their memory and reveal their personal stories while trekking through the Lower East Side, and taking part in storytelling workshops. From Canal St. to Houston St., East River to Bowery, the group guided and told location-based stories while considering how their neighborhood is changing.
Some of these seniors have lived on the Lower East Side all of their lives. Others are newer, not just to the neighborhood, but the United States. Workshops took place at unexpected and evocative sites where the seniors experimented with visual storytelling.
Though this project concentrates on the Lower East Side, it encompasses a wide and diverse demographic. No longer relying on outsider tour guides, exhibition viewers can directly connect to the residents and receive a personal immersive experience. The aim of Moving Stories is to provide a tool to physically engage people across cultures, generations, and history, and to connect more strongly with the community.
Created in partnership with the Weinberg Center for Balanced Living at the Manny Cantor Center, this immersive journey unravels stories of people and places and preserving personal identity, community and connection.
OPENING RECEPTION
TUESDAY | 12/13 | 12:30-2PM | 197 E Broadway, 4th Floor
Moving Stories is made possible in part with public funds from Creative Engagement, supported by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and administered by Lower Manhattan Cultural Council. LMCC.net
