The following
photograph-rich article discusses mermaid artworks and artifacts
found in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York from the viewpoint of
visual anthropology and cryptozoology.
All the photographs
featured here were taken by Takeshi Yamada. This manuscript was
produced by Dr. Eriko N. Bond, an active art critic and author
in New York City, as told by Takeshi Yamada.
MERMAIDS IN CONEY ISLAND 2007
Article by Takeshi Yamada and Dr. Eriko N. Bond
Part 2
Two of four mermaids
at Pirate’s Ship thrill ride at Astroland Amusement park.
Despite Astroland’s reputation as a family entertainment
amusement park, the mermaids’ bare breasts and nipples are
tastefully and proudly exposed here just like classical Greek
marble statutes of Goddesses in European cities. (Their chests
are covered with blue plastic bags during the Jewish holidays
when Jewish families visit here.)
These mermaids look
more alive, dramatic, sensuous, and mysterious at night under
the artificial lights.
Two of four mermaids
at Pirate’s Ship thrill ride at Astroland Amusement park. They
are also well-endowed.
Vividly colored
fiberglass mermaid on rotating game board.
Yes, she wears
seashells on her breasts. Astroland Amusement Park.
Ornamental Wall Reliefs
There are several
glorious painted reliefs of Neptune on the historical Childs
Restaurant building on the boardwalk. Childs was designated a
landmark in 2003 and renovation of this building started in
2007.
Another Neptune on
the Childs building. Unfortunately, they do not make things like
this any more. Sadly, this is the only remaining golden era
building with truly magnificent and breathtaking wall
medallions in Coney Island.
Takeshi Yamada, Sea
Rabbit (“Seara”), and Miss Pink USA at Coney Island Beach.
(September 3, 2007. Labor Day)
(Continue
to Part 3)
Copyright by Takeshi Yamada, Museum of World Wonders in Coney
Island, Brooklyn, New York, October 2007. Revised in March 2008.
All Rights Reserved.
E-mail: yamada108@aol.com
Special thanks to Dr. Eriko N. Bond, Lauren D. Travis, and
Maremi Kakushina.
Also
special thanks to Kris Roth (Senior Proofreader)
http://www.sideshowworld.com/SSA-15.html
http://www.roguetaxidermy.com/members_detail.php?id=528
http://www.horseshoecrab.org/poem/feature/takeshi.html
http://www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org/events/exhibitions/other/worldwonders.jsp
