Places of New York: A Quiet East Village Morning at Tompkins Square Park

Monday morning visitors to the park range from residents walking their dogs, elderly residents idly walking around, and students and young professionals passing through as part of their journey from one place to another. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

NYC Gov Parks describes Tompkins Square Park as a “perfect centerpiece for its eclectic neighborhood,” providing a “meditative environment within the bustle of city life.” In the weekends, the park occasionally houses live performances and also regularly hosts many excited canines in its dog-run (New York’s largest).

On a Monday Morning, the park definitely exudes a “meditative” mood as regular visitors carry out their routine and its residents pass through a piece of calm in between carrying out tasks for their day-to-day lives.

A woman rides her bike to get to her next destination. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

For Debbie, the park’s gardener, it’s just another day in the office. She works five days a week from 6.00am to 2.30pm. “I don’t wear uniform, so people think I’m a volunteer.” (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

A man sits on the bench and relaxes with a newspaper. He comes to the park almost every day. “I like to come here to figure out what I’m going to do later.” (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

While most of Tompkins Square Park’s squirrels run away at the presence of a human, the thrill of discovering its latest eats saw this one remain perched on a fence until it has completely devoured its meal. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

Liam poses shyly for the camera after walking around with his caregiver and getting close to the squirrels. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

Maroon and green leaves hang side by side. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

A partly consumed cookie rests on a fence, yet to be discovered by the squirrels. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

A couple sits down after leisurely strolling around the park. The woman reflects, while the man looks at his cellphone. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

In contrast, this couple decides to get their morning workout by playing a game of ping-pong. Every so often, they would take breaks and give each other a quick kiss. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)

Frank Bosco, a faculty member at the music therapy department at NYU Steinhardt, comes to the park regularly to let his two dogs, Chickapoo and Sweetie Pie, roam freely around the basketball court. In this picture, Chickapoo jumps to try and catch the stick. After multiple attempts, she eventually succeeds. (Anisa Purbasari/NYU)