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In our tercentenary issue dedicated to culture, we invited authors to share stories about the cultural places closest to their hearts, large and small. Whether it’s a beloved exhibit in a legendary mineral hall, a majestic movie theater in Korea, or an invaluable city landmark, these spaces provide inspiration, joy, and comfort. — Shauna Lyon
Illustration by Louis Otis
About the city
New York
Next time you visit the American Museum of Natural History, stop by the Allison and Roberto Mignone Gem Halls and check out the opals. The stone fell out of favor during the Victorian era, in part because Sir Walter Scott’s character died while wearing one. Yes, opals are less durable than diamonds, whose unscrupulous dealers ruined their reputation. But Shakespeare considered them worthy, calling them “the queen of gems” in Twelfth Night. Because they contain water, they are prone to drying out, creating “cracks” — an effect that creates the illusion of imperfections. Trust us! Opals come in jelly reds and kitten-nose pinks. My favorites are the sea-green ones, reminiscent of a Rothko painting. This is what nature does while we scroll through Instagram. — Paige Williams
Washington, DC
I’m no longer based in the capital this summer, but my recommendation for the perfect workspace is the Kogod courtyard at the National Portrait Gallery. The combination of light, air and cathedral-like acoustics (plus free entry) remains unrivalled. The highlight is the undulating roof, which resembles a glass canopy over the trees and a subtle reflecting pool by Kathryn Gustafson. (The atrium is by Norman Foster.) The whispers of conversation are undisturbed, and the echo of voices gives the space a clarity and depth. For quieter days, try Luce on the third floor: free coffee, power outlets and absolute silence. — Katie Waldman
New York
On the corner of 114th Street and Broadway, next door to a Starbucks, stands Broadway Presbyterian Church. Unlike the sprawling Riverside Church, it is modest: just four steps lead up to the scarlet doors. Inside, it is a sanctuary of classical music. Dark wood pews sit next to stained glass and contemporary art; programming ranges from baroque pieces to contemporary compositions. Music for Food concerts are held frequently; admission is free, and proceeds go to the Broadway Community, which helps the homeless. Small church, big contribution. — Jane Bois
Busan, South Korea
The Busan Cinema Center is an architectural marvel of the cinematic world. During my rare visits to the film festival, I spent hours exploring this grand modernist structure by Austrian firm Coop Himmelb(l)au. One autumn evening in 2018 was particularly memorable: shivering, I watched the ceiling adorned with multicolored LEDs until the crowd fell silent as Ryuichi Sakamoto played piano. Few theaters convey the grandeur of cinema so powerfully. – Justin Chang
New York
Many of New York’s theater venues have disappeared: CBGB is now a shoe boutique, the House of Candles is a restaurant. But La Mama, founded in 1961, is going from strength to strength: from Ellen Stewart’s theater “club” to a wondrous Escher-like complex. One day, in the lobby, I discovered a door leading to a labyrinthine repository of theater treasures: pearl-trimmed costumes, wooden-jointed puppets, letters from celebrities, sets from the heyday of experimental art. Founder and archivist Ozzie Rodriguez passed away in July, but his magical kingdom is open to the public by appointment. — Helen Shaw
New Yorker Quiz
It's a big week for music icons: test your knowledge of these artists.
Which pop superstar announced her engagement? Hint: “She's a master songwriter,” noted Gia Tolentino, “with every line in the right place.”
Which K-pop group topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart? Hint: A fictional group from a movie with “cute animal helpers, tons of ramen, anime-style styling, and spectacular fights.”
Which rock legend celebrated the 50th anniversary of an iconic album? Hint: “It's strikingly beautiful,” writes David Remnick, “and in fine form.”
P.S. Interesting things on the web:
- Birds of a feather
- Great Trees of New York
- Secrets of Happiness from Jemima Kirk
Sourse: newyorker.com
