Brighton Beach Memoirs (part 1)

This months cover by K.K.W,
with layout by Aleksandar Ares. 

Away from "The City", and along the water. Photos & text by K.K.W

One of the most amazing things about NYC, is that we have a few beaches. They give us something of a sea-side escape, from our never-ending concrete jungle. Even today, Brighton beach area is like another world to many. Populated by those from Ukraine & Russia (some are Jewish - orthodox & non, others Orthodox Christian), its a charming-strange area, with ruff-patches, problems, gruff characters and friendly people. For me, its a place of fond memories, small adventures with old friends, late night excursions on the beach and first taste of passion & love. 

View from the Q train-station platform.
Even today, there's a thrill & excitement
to riding the train to Beach.  

Near Brighton 6 or 7 - you turn right
at the corner and walk to the Beach.

From late Fall - early Winter 2009.
Kodak 400 film 

From late Fall - early Winter 2009.
Kodak 400 film 

From late Fall - early Winter 2009.
Kodak 400 film. Most of my high school
lived in Brooklyn, & we would hit the beach
for a smoke & fade into the sunset.  

April 2015 - digital. 

Walking along the shore was always
calming; the sound of the waves,
scent of salty-sea water. 

As my first girlfriend was from Kiev,
there were many moments spent walking along
 the shore, & under the summer sun.

It always felt like I was leaving everything
behind, for someplace free of aging buildings
and cramp city streets. 

From late Fall - 2009.
Kodak 400 film. The faded memories
were always with me, like wisps of smoke
from a warm bong.  

April 2015 - digital. 

With the right music & a few pocket-size
bottles of wine, its a rugged version
of someplace perfect. 

If you would like to know more, go to:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brighton_Beach. Sometimes I wonder, has it been 10, 15, 20 years? Seems like a lifetime, riding on a never-ending roller-coaster. The waves like memories lapping at my soul; a sound I forget but its never really far. Wild days with friends long gone, and lonely nights on the beach with great music & Mary-Jane. 'Art is the reason, art is the way'