“1999” is series surrounding a group of high school teenagers from around New York City. They all exude style, confidence, and individuality. Despite being from different areas of New York, they all come together at Tompkins Square Park at the end of their school days. They were each prompted with the question: “What is your favorite thing about being a teenager in New York today?”
Sasha, East Village
I love being around different cultures and different kinds of people. New York is such a special place with so much charm. Both of my parents are artists and I feel so lucky to be around so many creative people. New York has so much history that I’m lucky that I get to be a part of it.
Piper, Lower East Side
New York as a teen is such a world of its own. You walk through the park and always see someone you know. I love to be surrounded by so many creative people.Britney, Brooklyn
My favorite thing about living in NYC is the culture that’s been cultivated by the friends I have and the people I know. I think it’s a really interesting time to be alive and I’m lucky to be a part of it. I know for a fact that living anywhere else wouldn’t offer the chances for creativity and constant spontaneity of being in the city, especially the Lower East Side. The fact that we challenge the gentrification going on around us and the negative changes to our home is a big plus.Makayla, Brooklyn
I love the diversity and the ability to meet new and interesting people all the time.
Russell, Alphabet City
I turned out wild and people are OK with it.Kashanti, the Bronx
There’s a lot of diversity here that I don’t think you get as much in other places.Kass, the Bronx
New York as a teenager isn’t that big, you always meet someone who knows someone else and you either hate them or love them. We are the epitome of “a small world.”
Arianna, the Bronx
I love the street style in New York.Memphis, West Village
I love having the freedom to express myself and my style without feeling regret.
Sabrina Santiago is a student and photographer based in New York City. She is intrigued by everyday life, and how photography can bridge the gap between reality and fantasy.
4 Comments
yes yes yes this makes me want to pack up everything and run to new york
move with me?
These photos are lovely Sabrina!
yoo this is so creepy im listening to alphabet town by elliott smith and i just read the bit about the kid from alphabet city! a happy coincidence….