Dynamite Brooklynite: Harold Feinstein

One of the friendliest people I met last night at the Bond Street Gallery, was Harold Feinstein, the artist himself, on hand for his “Coney Island of the Heart” show. I did not know what he looked like, so I didn’t know who he was until he told me, which embarrassed me, but it seemed like he forgave my ignorance and immediately put me at ease. And that probably explains why his photographs feel genuine, real, open and uncontrived: because that’s how he is with people, all kinds of different people.

I also did not know that I was quoting him the other day. I didn’t know he wrote the quote that so eloquently described Coney Island and his take on it. Let me share his whole quote:

“I was born in Coney Island and used to say that I dropped from my mother’s womb straight into the front car of the Cyclone roller coaster! A nickel would get me a ride on the trolley to Coney and for the rest of the day I’d use up my quarter on rides, attractions, and plenty of sweet treats. I’d earn a little more to spend by drawing portraits on the boardwalk and having spent every last nickel, hitch a ride on the back of the trolley home again. But watching was always my favorite pastime. Over the years, the expression “melting pot” has been stunningly reflected in Coney Island’s appeal as the playground for the working class. Here Orthodox Jews, African Americans, Italians, Russians, Puerto Ricans and folks from all over the world were drawn together by the lure of the surf, sand, boardwalks, side-shows, hot dogs, and the permission to leave go of all inhibitions. It is classic Americana exuding the spirit of generosity and common humanity that is the best of the American spirit. These photographs span six decades. In 1995, on Coney Island’s 100th anniversary, ABC Nightline featured my photography as a way to celebrate this legendary place. In spite of periodic gloomy predictions, Coney Island’s magic continues to transcend time.”

Looking at his photographs in person, I felt a feeling of hopefulness that I could not explain. Now that I know a little more about the man who took them, I understand that’s because of how he sees the world and the people in it, regardless of whether or not he has a camera in his hands, when other people might have a more jaded perspective.

Thanks for the hopeful perspective, Harold! That’s what this world needs!