Makayla White
In the 1980s, New York City was a place of contrasts. The city was experiencing economic growth with a booming Wall Street and a rising real estate market. Mayor Ed Koch balanced the city’s budget ahead of schedule, ending a severe financial crisis by 1981. Yet, alongside this optimism, New Yorkers still faced high crime rates, a thriving illegal drug trade, and the notorious crack epidemic.
Photographer Steven Siegel captured this complex era through his street portrait photography. His work from the 1980s offers a raw and intimate look at the people of New York during this turbulent time. Siegel’s photos are a window into the lives of ordinary New Yorkers, showcasing their resilience and spirit amidst the city’s challenges.
Siegel’s portraits often feature people going about their daily routines. One of the key aspects of Siegel’s photography is his ability to capture candid and unguarded moments. His subjects are often unaware of the camera, resulting in natural and authentic expressions. This approach allows viewers to see the true character of the people he photographed, from their joys and struggles to their hopes and fears.
The economic divide in New York is another theme evident in Siegel’s work. His photos show the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty. For instance, you might see a businessman in a sharp suit walking past a homeless person on the street. These images highlight the city’s inequalities and the coexistence of different worlds within the same space.
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