Current Exhibitions – Upper Gallery

From My Hoboken Balcony: The Photographs of Philip Jean

The Hoboken Historical Museum is pleased to present "From My Hoboken Balcony: The Photographs of Philip Jean" in the Upper Gallery!

Philip Jean was exposed to commercial photography in an unconventional manner. At the age of 14, he was frequently skipping school and got in trouble. Philip was sent to an alternative high school as a result. One of the course options was commercial photography. Philip promptly enrolled. He ended up majoring in photography and graduated first in his class.

Upon graduating, Philip made his living shooting photographs for advertisements as a commercial photographer and did so for over 30 years. He drew inspiration from the greats: Hiro, Richard Avedon, and Irving Penn.

The lifestyle was grueling though. He was frequently traveling and sometimes working 7 days a week. After experiencing a heart attack in 2010, Philip transitioned to a gentler shooting schedule. He was also determined to simply enjoy himself, not just sell products.

Philip has lived in Hoboken on and off since 1980. In 2013, he moved into the senior building Fox Hill Gardens. His apartment is on the 8th floor. One of the signature features is his balcony with a completely unobstructed view of Manhattan. Philip began taking photos of the city at all times of day, all year round, often accompanied by his cat, “Lil’ Dube.”

"From My Hoboken Balcony: The Photographs of Philip Jean" presents Philip’s stunning photographs of the New York City skyline all shot from his balcony. His work showcases the dynamic beauty of the landscape. Philip’s photographs invite viewers to appreciate the natural rhythms that surround the city. He also reminds us to live in the moment and savor the ever-present beauty of life.

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