“Queen of the Park”
At first glance, this gothic-meets-grunge vibe can seem intimidating as you walk into a cement wonderland with harsh graffiti and loud tattoos. Thrasher music on the speaker and the swooshing of skateboards gracing this underground i-95 side piece, make you feel like you’ve stepped into an alternate dimension, especially when you’ve just driven past little league games and family picnics, sprinkled across FDR park.
I quickly realized however, that this community should not be judged by its cover. I felt immediately welcomed by skaters and spectators alike. Even in their space, with my big camera and dorky outfit, people were smiley, waved hello and even asked me who I was shooting for. The women competitors were cheering for and encouraging each other as were their male counterparts, as the crowning of the Queen of the park got underway.
