An Uptown Portrait

An Uptown Portrait: Maureen

An Uptown Portrait is a bi-monthly photo series by journalist Amaris Castillo (@AmarisCastillo). The portraits capture those who reside in upper Manhattan and their candid quips on their side of town.

Maureen Rocks used to move around a lot. Born in the city, she married, moved to the Bronx, and then landed in Yonkers. Inwood eventually won, which is where she has lived for the past 22 years. Now a 61-year-old widow, Rocks sits on a wheelchair by the corner of 204th St. and Broadway. Since her stroke four years ago, the travel agent has had to slow down. Rocks is in a light dress, covered in pastel colors. Perfect for summer. Sitting by a worn bench, she shares her story with a friend. “I’m the jack of all trades,” Rock says with a smile. “I was the Avon lady, the Tupperware lady. The around-the-world lady.” She chose to run her own travel agency – though her own travel is limited. “Any day I get out, it’s good,” Rocks says. “God’s good.”

Check out more of Amaris Castillo’s work: http://vimeo.com/AmarisCastillo

Also Check out:

An Uptown Portrait: Natividad

An Uptown Portrait – Hugo

An Uptown Portrait – Patrick

An Uptown Portrait – Alicia

An Uptown Portrait – Geanella

An Uptown Portrait – Linwood

An Uptown Portrait – Robert

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  • Steven R. Hazlett
    September 15, 2011 at 10:59 pm

    I’ve seen her in the neighborhood since I was a kid – never really talked to her. I think you really captured an honest, up close and personal side of her which not everyone sees.Can’t wait to see more of your project!

  • Amaris Castillo (@AmarisCastillo)
    September 17, 2011 at 8:08 pm

    Steven, thank you so much for your comment, I appreciate it. Maureen was a pleasure to speak to. I am happy you enjoyed the piece!