Pleasure Boat Studio: A Nonprofit Literary Press

Irving Sandler’s “Goodbye to Tenth Street,” published by Pleasure Boat Studio, is an essential read for anyone fascinated by the vibrant postwar art scene on Manhattan’s East 10th Street. As a renowned art historian and critic who passed away in June, Sandler was deeply embedded in the era, meticulously documenting the Abstract Expressionists in the late 1950s and early 60s. This novel, however, offers a different kind of history—a roman à clef that dives into the unverified gossip, overheard chats, and rumors of nooners and backbiting that were too juicy for traditional historical accounts. From charged studio visits to bitter exchanges at the Cedar Bar, the story captures a sad, sordid, and surprisingly authentic truth about that legendary time and place.

Finding solace in these verses was exactly what I needed. There is a quiet, gentle warmth here that soothes the soul. It offers a refreshing perspective on life, deeply rooted in the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

This book offers a captivating look at New York City’s golden era of art in the 1950s and 60s, capturing the vibrant mix of painters, critics, and collectors who gathered in spots like the Cedar Bar. Irving Sandler’s writing is both insightful and gentle, making the reader feel like they are right there amidst the scene. A truly engaging read from Pleasure Boat Studio.