A recent thread elsewhere directed me to this excellent, informative essay by Mr. Wilson on the historic relationships between art and Central Park.
"Throughout its history there has been a dialectic between an “elitist” and a “populist” concept of the Park. It was conceived by cultured (and wealthy) people who wanted a park to match the great public places of Europe, and also to increase the value of real estate uptown. Theirs was a Romantic view of Nature, by way of American Transcendentalism. The Park would be for quiet contemplation and relaxation. The lower classes, in so far as they had access, would be edified by the models both of Nature and of their social betters."
In case there are any readers of this page who are unaware of the rest of Digital Media Tree, it is full of great, smart writing. Browse around.
Rosenzweig & Blackmar's social history, The Park & the People is a good source. A bit dry, but tons of info.
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A recent thread elsewhere directed me to this excellent, informative essay by Mr. Wilson on the historic relationships between art and Central Park. In case there are any readers of this page who are unaware of the rest of Digital Media Tree, it is full of great, smart writing. Browse around.
- sally mckay 4-13-2004 6:39 am
Rosenzweig & Blackmar's social history, The Park & the People is a good source. A bit dry, but tons of info.
- alex 4-13-2004 7:34 pm