As a teenager and an aspiring actor, I often daydreamed about living in New York City and pursuing a creative career. Part of that daydream was living in an apartment walk-up on a shady street with a fire escape where I could sit out at night, writing my Pulitzer Prize-winning play. (Yes, I watched so so many movies!)

The closest (so far) that I got to a New York creative life was one audition for a Shakespeare company back in the ’80’s. The closest I came to a walk-up was visiting my son and his wife who relocated to Manhattan. Their apartment near Union Square was in a 6-story walk-up, and they were on the 5th floor. My romance about these buildings soon vanished when we had to carry groceries (or anything) up those narrow, steep stairs!

Yet, walking through the streets, seeing these iconic buildings – from the outside – still momentarily restores the romance of my youthful daydreams! Just as long as I don’t have to deliver anything heavy above the 3rd floor! Lol!

From a 2012 visit to New York, here’s a miniature painting that epitomises where my 18-year-old self thought I’d be living someday.

#157 – New York City Walk-Ups

2.5″ x 3.5″ ink and watercolour

Original available at my online Etsy Shop, ArtWeWonderful, and at local art events.