Chelsea Manhattan is a socially diverse neighborhood in New York City. However, the rise of Michelin Star restaurants, luxury retail and condos are attracting a wealthy class of individuals that are rapidly widening the gap between the rich and the poor. This photo essay reflects the changes that Chelsea is undergoing. It shows how the influence of power and wealth and how it attracts tourists and often displaces middle the lower class citizens out of their own neighborhoods. I wanted to capture the contrast that exists between classes in this section of the city.
1.12pm on a Thursday. A couple kiss over drinks in the Meat Packing District.
3. Wealthy residents dock or rent Yachts from Chelsea Piers.
2. Limos and Luxury vehicles pick up and drop guests staying at The Standard Hotel which is within walking distance.
4. An artist paints on Gansevoort Street.
5. Restaurants, Bars and Lounges replace what used to be factories and packing plants.
6. Residents & Tourists
7. Alexander, Age 45, was evicted from his Chelsea apartment when he could not keep up with rent. He is homeless and sells personalized clothing and goods to survive.
8. Miguel recycles cans and scrap metal to pay his monthly rent of $480 at Chelsea-Elliott housing projects (a block away from Highline Park.)
9. Tenzig collects Donations for Tibet. Highline Park is now a major tourist attraction. The densely populated area makes for an ideal fundraising location.
10. Abdul sets up his fruit stand between low income housing and the high end markets by The Highline. This allows him to attract a wide range of customers.
11. Art venders setup up closer to the high end shops to attract customers with more disposable income.
12. Halal food vendors offer one of the more affordable meals in Chelsea. It is hard to beat at $6 a plate.
13. To the left are New Condos. To the right we get a glimpse into old Chelsea. Graffiti is a dying art in this neighborhood.
14. Industrial buildings still exist in Chelsea. These streets do not attract tourists or residents.
15. Artist that do not have access to the plethora of galleries in the neighborhood display their work hoping to sell or network.
16. Cobble stone roads are a staple of the Meat packing District. Areas with cobble stone are significantly more expensive than areas without.
