We headed across town and downtown to Hudson Yards today. 11th Ave and 33rd street. Hudson yards houses a number of skyscrapers, the Vessel and is where the High Line starts, or finishes depending on your direction of travel.
We wander past the Vessel, which is now covered in chicken wire. The Vessel is a striking structure located in Hudson Yards. Designed by architect Thomas Heatherwick, it consists of a honeycomb-like arrangement of staircases and platforms, offering visitors sweeping views of the city. The Vessel has been a symbol of innovative design and a focal point of Hudson Yards’ commercial and cultural space.
However, it has also garnered attention for its darker recent history. Since its opening in 2019, there have been multiple tragic incidents of suicide associated with the structure, leading to a significant amount of public concern and reflection on mental health issues. In response to these incidents, the Vessel was closed temporarily in early 2021 to reevaluate safety measures.
As of now, the Vessel is covered in protective wire mesh, a decision made to deter suicidal behaviour and create a safer environment for visitors. This modification has prompted mixed reactions; while many appreciate the step towards enhanced safety, others believe it detracts from the aesthetic experience that the Vessel was intended to provide. The situation highlights the intersection of art, architecture, and the pressing social issues related to mental health in public spaces.
The Vessel remains an important topic for discussion, representing both the innovative spirit of modern architecture and the need for compassionate approaches to complex societal issues. As we walk around it the early afternoon sun bounces off the skyscrapers creating interesting reflections through the Vessel.
wWe then work our way to the start of the High Line. The first part of the walk is a 270 degree circular walk around the actual Hudson Yards – where subway trains are stashed. Multiple lines span an area around 300 metres wide, each with subway cars stacked, waiting for their turn to be called into action.
We then join the main walk downtown. The walk is a combination of old train tracks, elevated metal walkways and wooden paths wending its way down to the Meatpacking district at Gansavort Street.
The High Line has transformed into a popular green space that offers a unique blend of urban landscaping, art installations, and stunning views of the city and the Hudson River.
Opened to the public in stages starting in 2009, the High Line was designed by James Corner Field Operations in collaboration with architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro. The park features a mix of native plants, flowers, and trees, along with pathways made of reclaimed wood and steel, preserving the line’s industrial heritage. It also hosts various art pieces and installations, making it a dynamic space that changes with exhibitions.
The High Line serves not just as a park but as a crucial connector of neighborhoods, encouraging walking and exploration. Visitors can enjoy gardens, seating areas, and cultural programming, making it a vibrant part of New York City’s landscape and social life.
In addition to its aesthetic and recreational appeal, the High Line symbolises the transformation of urban spaces and illustrates how cities can creatively repurpose infrastructure to enhance community engagement and quality of life. The park has become a model for similar projects around the world, showcasing the importance of green public spaces in urban environments.
We’ve walked the line a few times over our 12 visits. Today it feels quiet, it is a Monday a week before thanksgiving. It’s a time when NYC holds its breath for the busiest time of year. So it’s pleasant walking with not too many people around, but there are also fewer artworks on display. We do see some artists at work creating a large mural. We also see a giant sized ballerina and a multi coloured lamp from a lighthouse.
We conclude our walk. I’m keen to revisit Union Swuare markets. I saw a lovely painting of the library with the two lions in a whimsical and colourful style. It’s touched a nerve with me. We catch a bus along 14th to the markets. We locate the seller immediately and it’s still there. I admire it for a minute before asking the price.
You know that moment when you see something you like and you have no idea of the price. I was there. Will this be $50, $500 or $5,000? Who knows. We are at a market and, no disrespect intended, it’s not a Van Gogh! It’s an awesome piece of art though. The lions look as if they’re talking to each other as they stand patiently and protect the library with fortitude.
So I ask? “How much?”
“$960. It’s an original, one off, painted on wood.” That’s about $1,600 Australian. I like it, but that’s a bit rich for us. We settle on a print for $60 instead. We head home for a while, before heading out to dinner.
For dinner we visit Bob and Cathy. They live downtown in the financial district. We enjoy a great night, Cathy is a wonderful cook. They serve us delicious Salmon, salad, beans and pasta. We bring a cheesecake for dessert
We have a great night talking about anything and everything, from politics, cultural differences between our countries, YouTube, Broadway shows etc etc. We really have a great time and eventually leave for home quite late.
