High Density — NYC
Manhattan, New York
2018
Edition of 50
Reflection
Density is defined not only by what occupies a space, but also by what surrounds it. In High Density , the calm surface of the Hudson River provides a moment of visual stillness, allowing the extraordinary complexity of Manhattan to breathe.
Print information
- Edition
- Limited edition of 50, plus artist proofs.
- Archival pigment print on museum-grade fine art paper.
- Sizes
- Available sizes and presentation options provided on enquiry.
- Certificate
- Signed, numbered and supplied with a certificate of authenticity.
- Framing
- Framed, mounted and print-only options available depending on destination.
- Shipping
- Secure domestic and international delivery quoted individually.
Behind the Flight
High Density was photographed during the same twilight helicopter flight as Empire State , but with a much narrower field of view. Rather than capturing Manhattan within its wider setting, I wanted to compress the city into a frame that emphasised its extraordinary density.
New York is often described as a concrete jungle, but from above it reveals an unexpected sense of order. The rigid street grid, illuminated lights and countless buildings combine into an intricate pattern that stretches from the Financial District towards Central Park, interrupted only by the unmistakable glow of Times Square.
The Hudson River became an equally important part of the composition. By allowing the western shoreline to disappear beyond the frame, the river became a broad expanse of reflected sky rather than another piece of land. Its surface coloured with the soft golden tones of twilight, creating a peaceful counterbalance to the intensity of Manhattan itself.
As the city lights slowly emerged, the contrast between the tightly packed urban landscape and the open negative space of the river became increasingly apparent. It transformed the photograph from a simple cityscape into a study of balance, where complexity and simplicity exist side by side.
