Many people migrate to large cities like New York with the hope of connecting and plugging in with like-minded individuals. Ironically, instead, they often find themselves feeling alone and isolated. This series poignantly chronicles that "ghost" existence or "apartness," one can experience while being in the presence of a multitude of people. Each photograph depicts a familiar NYC street scene, usually bustling with activity. An anonymous figure is painted, in impasto, onto the surface of the photograph, implying the disconnection to life around it. The resultant piece is sculptural in its effect and further reflects Burgel's keen interest in expanding the material possibilities of photography and painting. 

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