Photographer Arthur Tress reflects on the 'cruising' culture of 1969 New York in his new book, capturing the essence of social engagement in Central Park's Ramble.
Arthur Tress, an 85-year-old photographer from New York, has published a collection of black-and-white images from 1969 titled 'The Ramble, NYC 1969', which has taken six decades to come to fruition. The book features photographs taken in the Ramble area of Central Park, known for its wild and untamed nature, which served as a social space for people during that era. Tress's reflections highlight the significance of these gatherings and the unique culture that developed in these secluded parts of the city.
In 1969, Tress was just 29 years old and living two blocks away from Central Park. He was engaged in a project focused on creating small parks in New York City, emphasizing the importance of preserving and enhancing recreational spaces in neglected urban areas. The Ramble, specifically designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in the 1890s, was intended to offer a respite from the surrounding city, providing an artificial, yet hidden jungle-like environment for exploration and socialization, which became iconic for the LGBTQ+ community and other groups seeking connection away from societal norms.
Tress’s book not only serves as a photographic documentation of a time gone by but also as a critical reminder of the social dynamics and cultural history of cruising in New York. The work encapsulates the essence of human interaction in urban spaces, signaling the importance of public areas in fostering community ties and offering a retreat from the complexities of city life. Tress's insights into the Ramble’s role in facilitating these personal and collective experiences provide a window into a vibrant part of New York's history that resonates with contemporary discussions about inclusivity and public space.
