NYC DECOMPRESSION 2005
by Tom Pearson

Sculpture by Paige Bradley Gallery; photo by Tom Pearson

This year’s NYC Decompression party, a celebration of art and alternative culture that serves as a cool down for New York area burners, was one of the best in years. The thirteen-hour interactive carnival held on the rooftop of Brookyln Sugar in Williamsburg brought the playa to the tar, replete with art installations, sculpture, performing artists, a dance floor, a costume trading post, free popcorn, cotton candy, a kissing booth, and of course, the fabulous annual resident creatures of Black Rock City. Smaller in scale than past parties, the contained atmosphere focused its energy instead on cultivating quality. The dance party was always kicking. The hula hoopers, with their own play area, were on hand to perform and share advice. Tip: a simple back and forth motion of the torso (with one foot planted slightly in front) is better for hooping than trying to circle with your waist.

The fire spinners were extraordinary as they showed their virtuosity to a vibrating but hushed crowd (we had to cheer quietly to keep the NYPD from closing us down). Two silvery acrobats performed circus-type fabric drops from the ceiling inside, while the dance party paused to watch. Outside, freezing party-goers crowded around a burn barrel situated between a sculpture of a horse made from rebar and tire treads and a sculpture by Paige Bradley Gallery of a woman emitting light from her torso.

Last year’s party, held at Spirit in Chelsea, attracted the club-goers and failed to satisfy, but the party on Saturday night was filled with true burners, who live the playa year-round and generously share their spirits and gifts. And, the few pieces of art and occasional performances were like nuggets of gold against the chilly skyline of Manhattan and a city preparing for a long cold winter.

© 2005 Tom Pearson