This past Friday, I spent the day in Manhattan, at Hudson Yards. I hadn’t been there in ages, and found myself surrounded by the Vessel, The Shed, and memories.

Years ago, when it opened, I didn’t make it inside or to the top of the Vessel. Then, as it often happens, I didn’t have the time to go.

Meanwhile, there were stories of people throwing themselves to their deaths from the top of the Vessel. Soon afterwards, the Vessel closed.

This past Friday, to my surprise, I discovered that the Vessel had reopened. The entry fee was quite hefty; hence, there was no line. was no line. For me, it was a now-or-never type of moment; therefore, I decided to go for it.

My Vessel experience was worth its pricetag. There were safety nets attached everywhere possible, in a creative way, I might add.

The very top of the Vessel was not accessible, hence, neither were the best views. That said, the views of and from within the Vessel are surreal, to say the least.

Here are a few snapshots (I had only my iPhone with me, as it often happens nowadays):

Back on the ground level, I took another look around and noticed The Shed building. It brought back many memories, especially those of the World Pride Month 2019, held in New York City, and the many art shows hosted at The Shed that year. Read more about my cover story interview and photo shoot of that year, here.

June is one of these months that brings back memories, I believe. It’s also a half-year mark, of sorts.

I wish you all a wonderful June and summer. And, as always, thanks for stopping by,

Alina Oswald