Chris Arnade Represents New York & Its Demons

“Jose & Friends: Hunts Point, Bronx. Is there more joy than four kids tumbling underneath the Bruckner?”

If you are a fan of the Facebook phenomenon “People of New York,” you are going to love this. Meet Chris Arnade 48, a talented photographer who quit his 20-year job as a Wall Street banker to be an artist a couple years ago. Leaving the comfort of Manhattan, Arnade took a short subway ride towards the South Bronx where he decided to photograph people of New York who he felt represent the diversity of the city. Arnade’s work is darker, rawer and more heart ranching than projects like “People of New York” which only brush the surface of NYC’s human depths.

“Street Surfing: East New York, Brooklyn. It was close to 100 today so the hydrants were open. These kids had laid a plank in front of the spout and were ‘street surfing.'”

“Young Boys: East New York, Brooklyn. Every time I come to this part of East New York this group of kids comes running towards my car, asking to have their picture taken.”

Though Arnade captures numerous moments representative of New York City culture’s healthy vibrancy, he is also drawn to the darkest, lugubrious street corners where meth and heroin addicts reside. Despite his rough subjects, Arnade produces true works of art. He is not merely documenting like many before him, but creating beauty and moving his viewer, all without glamorizing the gutter.

“Sonya knows how to look bad. It helps her make money panhandling.”

“Egypt: Hunts Point, Bronx – Egypt now lives with Michael in an abandoned building. After waking he goes out to get heroin for him and crack for her.”

Check out Crhis Arnade’s Flickr here.