independent, ironic, gentrification

"In the 1990s and 2000s, the 1940s slang term hipster began being used in North America to describe y o u n g, w e l l-e d u c a t e d urban m i d d l e c l a s s and upper class adults with leftist, l i b e r a l, or libertarian social and political views and interests in a n o n-m a i n s t r e a m fashion and cultural aesthetic. While definitions vary, hipsters are often associated with alternative music, "indie" culture (independent rock and independent film), and other non-mainstream products, such as vintage clothing. Hipsters may dress in a campy or ironic manner, pairing expensive vintage clothes with working-class clothing. The social scene in some major cities is centered in a gentrified downtown area where DJ clubs, fair-trade coffee cafés, and organic restaurants sit side-by-side with thrift stores and working class taverns." - Thank you Wikidpedia


While in New York, I have been studying the artist community. It is a truly fascinating that I identify with, and feel very separated from. A majority of the research has brought up issues of gentrification , in which artists are drawn to an area for cheap rent prices, which are then multiplied by their presence's impact on the neighborhood, thus kicking them out due to their low income. During this we have heard the term "hipster" thrown out a lot by groups very far and very close to what the name seems to identify with, and it has made me very curious. So curious that I am considering writing an essay called, "Why I bought a v-neck." It is a group that is disliked, yet followed and identified, yet rejected by many whom it identifies.


In other news, I saw Hairspray on Broadway last night.







I also just ate at Hummus Place and it was AAAMMMAAAZZZZIIINNNGGGG. I had hummus with a Mediterranean bean and egg topping, plus Baklava and Turkish coffee.

Tomorrow I am eating a "dirty water dog" and going to another gallery reception. Saturday another gallery opening, Sunday an artist church and Serendipity, Wednesday giving a presentation, and Thursday coming back to LA which may or may not be a desired event.