I remember the first time I discovered the Chelsea Hotel, it was when reading one of my favorite angry teenager reads And I Don't Want to Live This Life - the story of Sid & Nancy by Nancy's mom, Deborah Spungen. Although the Chelsea was a grim and dark scene described by Spungen, I became so curious about this place and soon learned that it was a haven for artists and dreamers like myself. I dreamed of being there and never really outgrew that fantasy. Almost 10 years later when I moved to NYC, I got to experience the Chelsea first hand.
In 2002, my friend and photographer Hannah Neal came to the city to shoot many projects one of which at the time was my upcoming release Wish. When in New York, Hannah stayed at the Chelsea like many photographers, musicians, and artists do and I couldn't wait to meet her there to begin our day of photos. The moment I opened the rickety front door to enter into the lobby, I felt the electric vibe that saturates the hallways. It lives up to grittiest of grit New York has to offer and yet, there's a alluring feeling there that makes you want to stay and be a part of it's rock and roll history. I'm so sad to see it go. Looks like new condos will be taking it's place. Maybe there's still time for someone rescue this treasure.
Enjoy some of our photos from that day in the photo section of my site.
The Chelsea Hotel on West 23rd Street, a longtime haunt of artists and musicians, closed to guests on Sunday, and its future is uncertain.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/01/nyregion/historic-chelsea-hotel-closes-to-guests.html
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