The New York Times: "An unorthodox look . . . photographs, commissioned as artworks . . . focus on striking details."
Fire Island National Seashore was established in 1964. A ferry arriving at Watch Hill leaves one a short walk from the salt marsh, an environmentally-sensitive habitat for fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. The hamlet of Davis Park is also within walking distance and an important stop for accessing public restrooms and other facilities before venturing off into the Otis Pike High Dune Wilderness.
The seven mile stretch of the wilderness remains in its natural state without any boardwalks, roads, signage, or other human development. Indeed, one will eventually encounter a graveyard of foundations, sea-polished bottles, and miscellaneous fragments. These remains are the flotsam of Long Cove, a small summer community that arose in the late 19th century before it was removed – along with other modern construction – to become part of the area that is now the wilderness.
I was commissioned by the NPS for a year-long project to artistically document the constantly changing beauty of this unique ecosystem. Through the photographs, public awareness is raised of Fire Island’s importance as more than a recreational beach. The foresight of past environmentalists has preserved the salt marsh and High Dune Wilderness for the enjoyment of future generations.
All photographs are available for exhibition and purchase. Contact Xiomaro
Any image or text or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever – including any and all uses in connection with artificial intelligence technology – without my express written permission. Violators will, and have been, prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Xiomaro logo by Azul Burger. Photos of Xiomaro by Barbara Cittadino.