In 2000, Don Christensen embarked on a monumental research project to understand how South Bay--once a favorite landscape of Hudson River School painters--deteriorated into a neglected swamp and industrial area. His work culminated in an exhibition that opened in February 2001 at the Hudson Opera House called Seeing South Bay. The exhibition has been mentioned here and is discussed extensively in the comments on the LWRP written by Sam Pratt for Save the South Bay. I was recently reminded that Seeing South Bay had been documented by the late Bob Ponkos for the website warrenstreet.com and, thanks to Sam and John Merola, Bob's brother-in-law and collaborator on warrenstreet.com, I am able to provide the link that will get you there to explore Seeing South Bay.
'Seeing South Bay' is a wonderful historical reminder of what Hudson has had and could possibly bring back in this short important period of choice and opportunity. The dramatic setting of Hudson rising above and being reflected in this safe port - a harbor away from the strong tidal flow of the river - is breathtaking. No wonder the 18th c. navigators of Nantucket prized this location so much.
ReplyDeleteThe short vision of subdivision and landfill needs to be reversed to the long vision of reopening the bay. Working with nature instead of against it will be the easiest solution in the end with the predicted rise in the water table from extreme climate change.
If there is going to be change in South Bay why can't it be for the good of the majority instead of the good for a corporation who doesn't even live here. A causeway will not attract private investors for growth like a bay will.
It is too bad that an exhibition catalog was never made of this terrific exhibit by Don Christensen. I hope that one day he can be persuaded to produce one. It truly was a wonderful presentation of Hudson's rich and diverse history.
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