Central Park New York

Time is not bound by culture, and neither is nature. In order to comprehend and appreciate all aspects of Central Park, Jeff Liao followed the Chinese 24 Solar Terms timetable to document the micro changes that happen in this phenomenal “man-made nature”. By adapting the vertical format and multiple perspectives of traditional Chinese landscape paintings, these photographs capture the life and activities that occur within the shifting landscape of the “lung of Manhattan”.

The connection that visitors make with Central Park’s original intent as a scenic retreat from urban life has never been more real than it is today. Jeff Liao’s work in 24 Solar Terms is a perfect example of that experience of nature and design: a unique interpretation of the Park’s views and attention to the subtleties of some of its most intimate corners. The photographs show the Park at its most beautiful and cared for, a true celebration of Conservancy’s dedication and hard work.

Jeff Chien-Hsing Liao was born in Taiwan in 1977 and, in 1999 emigrated to the United States, residing in the Queens Borough of New York City. He lived in close proximity of the 7-subway line, where he created his renowned “Habitat 7” series and staked his claim and love for New York City. Liao’s work can be found in the permanent collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; Queens Museum, New York; Brooklyn Museum, New York; J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles; George Eastman House, Rochester, New York; and the Norton Museum of Art, Pasadena.

“The necessity of maintaining the delicate balance between man and nature, art and discovery, so clearly understood by Olmsted and Vaux over 150 years ago, has been tested to the near-ruin of Central Park, and our ability to educate visitors about that chapter in the Park’s history is a critical part of ensuring its survival. Our mandate as New Yorkers and as lovers of Central Park is clear: We can never take Central Park for granted and it can never be allowed to go back to the decline it had fallen into previously. Work like Jeff’s, that celebrates the Park at its best, can only help in keeping this jewel of New York City a place of wonder and respite for every person who enters.” — Douglas Blonsky, President & CEO, Central Park Conservancy and Central Park Administrator