Coney Island by Jennifer Maravillas in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York

Originally a barrier island to the south of Brooklyn; Coney Island’s name is a derivative of the Dutch “Conyne Eylandt,” meaning “Rabbit Island.” It’s the birthplace of American recreation. Coney Island’s resorts and amusement parks opened after public transit was established between the island and Manhattan. In the mid to late 1800s, the streetcar and steamboat brought a refined leisure scene to the island. Later, the subway brought wild amusement parks. Many parks still exist with rides built in the 1920s. Today, the beaches are filled with families of all nationalities escaping the city air.

Name:Jennifer Maravillas
Occupation:

Artist

Preoccupation:

Finding every single thing on earth to be interesting.

Tell us about Brooklyn:

Brooklyn, New York, is a diverse borough of old established and traditional families mixed with transitory youth. The duality exists in the creations of its citizens.

A perfect day in Brooklyn?

A long walk on a warm spring day, wandering around parts of Brooklyn I’ve never seen, and meeting friends on the tail end of the journey.

What is the best thing about Brooklyn?

Anything goes.

What is the worst?

The same with any place, racism.

What would be surprising about Brooklyn to an outsider?

New Yorkers are kind, loud sometimes, definitely direct, and very fast paced, but not typically rude.

If Brooklyn was a person who would it be?

A charming older gentleman in a stellar suit and hat, with a cane just as an accessory.

Who are three of your favorite artists?

Werner Herzog, Mary Blair, Henry Darger

jenmaravillas.com

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Name:Jennifer Maravillas

City:Brooklyn

Local Tip:

The bus system in New York is pretty great and underutilized.

Must Do:

Walk everywhere and lose the map.