My journey through Jackson Heights was guided by Councilmember Daniel Dromm. He told me about the great June festivals that featured the work of local artists and pointed out which places were the locus of art and culture in Jackson Heights. Here he is below posing next to a painting by local artist, and June festival participant, Elliot Bassman:
My first destination in Jackson Heights was the Towers (Below), a co-op style apartment complex that symbolizes the propensity for cultural cooperation in the neighborhood. In his book “Jackson Heights: A Garden in the City,” Daniel Karatzas chronicles the shift in the demographics. The towers were built as a luxury escape for wealthy Manhattan inhabitants who were tired of the crowded urban space. However, after the Great Depression the resultant economic downturn led to many vacancies in such co-ops. As immigrants came to America en masse they flocked to the conveniently located and now inexpensive neighborhood. I also stopped by the Dunolly Gardens (Lower) which was a co-op built later with cheaper living in mind.
Next I paid a visit to the Jackson Heights art club. This organization attempts to increase the knowledge and enjoyment of art by the community at large. To this end they host many events and contests every year. They also offer free lessons and materials to children across the neighborhood. In this way people of many different cultures come together to appreciate art. The picture below is of their annual on the fence outdoor exhibit:
I then swung by Espresso 77, a combination music venue, café, and art gallery. They stress the importance of local art and diversity in Jackson Heights. It is a gathering place for art and coffee appreciators across the neighborhood. Plus, they make a great espresso.
Finally I grabbed a bite at the Jackson Diner, Jackson Height’s premier Indian restaurant. The cuisine comes from one of the neighborhood’s many cultures but all appreciate it.
