Landscape as longing: Queens, New York

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In 2003, Frank Gohlke and Joel Sternfeld were commissioned to photograph the borough of Queens, New York City, known for its ethnic diversity. Over a year, they captured the complex dynamics of its communities, developing a unique theory of landscape photography where the landscape reflects the invisible emotions of its inhabitants. Gohlke's work features streets, houses, gardens, and shorelines, highlighting the tension between human arrangements and natural forces like vegetation, weather, and decay, alongside the impact of commercial culture. Sternfeld's focus is on the local shops, restaurants, mosques, and temples that create a multicultural experience, reminiscent of places like Thailand, India, or Peru, often found in homes or repurposed factories. These locations symbolize a connection to a homeland, real or imagined. Accompanied by an essay from acclaimed writer Suketu Mehta, this collection serves as a powerful tool for understanding the intricate landscape of Queens, making its vibrant patchwork both accessible and visible.