A Tour Through Central Park’s Cruising Grounds

The New Yorker

by Vince Aletti

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Arthur Tress’s new book, *The Ramble, NYC 1969*, offers a unique glimpse into an often-overlooked subculture through his evocative black-and-white photographs. Taken during a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history, the images capture young men navigating the hidden cruising grounds of Central Park's The Ramble, a location long known as a hub for same-sex encounters. Tress’s work is both poetic anddocumentary, blending storytelling with intimate, often improvisational compositions. His approach reflects a deep understanding of the complexities and vulnerabilities of his subjects, many of whom were part of the closeted or married gay community during a time when societal acceptance was still decades away. Tress’s career has long been defined by his ability to stage theatrical yet deeply personal moments that resonate with emotion and narrative. His earlier works, such as *The Dream Collector* from 1972, are filled with surreal, Lynch-esque imagery that challenges the boundaries of photography as a medium. However, *The Ramble, NYC 1969* marks a shift in focus, as Tress turns his lens to real-life encounters and the raw emotions of anticipation, longing, and isolation experienced by his subjects. This collection is not just about documentation; it’s an exploration of identity and desire, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing cultural

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/14/2026