Georgia
Hourdas

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I live in Bushwick Brooklyn and work out of my studio in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn.

Do you have a favorite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

I like to meet up at local art shows at my favorite Bushwick/Ridgewood galleries Marvin Gardens, International Waters and Underdonk or I’ll visit a bar like the Broadway with friends in my area.

When I’m trying to really relax I also like to stay home for a change! Sometimes I go out a bit too much and need some down time at home where I like to do small projects. Recently I put mushroom wallpaper on my fridge.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

With Roe v. Wade being recently repealed in America, tensions are very high about women’s reproductive rights. It’s absolutely reprehensible. Women should have the right to choose. Sexisim is still alive.

In New York, Governor Hochul has just called in the national guard to start checking bags of riders in the metro system. We already have police officers on many of the platforms, so this move is very strange to me. What are they looking for, seriously? Drugs? Guns? It seems like major overkill.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years—and what has not?

Very high rent! A large percentage of New Yorkers moved away during the pandemic. Initially the rent prices went slightly down, but now years later they have gone right back up. Luckily I got into a really amazing job after I was unemployed for much of covid but still the rent hike is quite noticeable, especially for studio spaces in my area. I know that the rent prices are a point of struggle for many families living in New York City.

Despiste the high rent, creative people are still finding ways to open new music venues and small DIY gallery spaces.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers—whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

Los Hermanos is a local tortilla manufacturer that also has a restaurant in their front of house. They make authentic Mexican tacos with tortillas made the same day. It’s a very down to earth spot to go when you have a few dollars in your pocket (cash only) and want something delicious.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

New York City is a walkable city. I love not having to own a car, which is nearly impossible in most towns and cities across America. As imperfect as the MTA subway system is, it is one of my favorite things about the city. I love riding the train. Instead of focusing on driving, I can read a few pages of my book while I’m on my way to work or to see friends. This city is for pedestrians!

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would  like to share with us?

I love the Vietnamese restaurant Nha Mhin! It’s locally owned and operated. Their dishes are so fresh and tasty. There are always a lot of very creative house made sauces you can put on your food. I love their vegan spring roll bun.

They seem like they’re also very integrated with the community around them, frequently hosting small markets over the weekend and art shows complete with complimentary snacks.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

Instagram, Spotify & Adobe Fresco.

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

Classically, the New Yorker always has some amazing articles. BOMB magazine is a cool artist interview magazine that I subscribe to. I also love reading the Manhattan Art Review online blog. They do short form gallery reviews that are punchy and concise.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year—what would you change?

I would increase rent control and focus on ways I could help the homeless population.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live—regardless of financial or time constrains—which one would you choose?

Truthfully I love living in New York City! I’ve always dreamed of being an artist living here. I haven’t traveled much in Europe, there seems to be a lot of interesting cities. I think Tokyo, Japan would also be fun though I might change my mind once I visit Paris this year!