Podcast Summary: All Of It – "Nat Ward Photographs Ditch Plains Beach in Montauk"

Release Date: July 25, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of All Of It, hosted by Tiffany Hansen in place of Alison Stewart, WNYC delves into the vibrant culture of Montauk through the lens of Queens-based photographer Nat Ward. The discussion centers around Nat's newly released photography book, Ditch, Montauk, New York, 11954, which captures the essence of Ditch Plains Beach—a communal hub where diverse individuals converge to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.

Discovering Ditch Plains Beach

Nat Ward shares his serendipitous discovery of Ditch Plains Beach in 2018. Unlike other beaches he frequented growing up, Ditch Plains offered a unique blend of community and spontaneity that resonated deeply with him.

“Ditch is the place where I bring my kids to learn how to talk to strangers, because inevitably, the people you're next to, you're becoming friends with for a day.”
— Nat Ward [03:49]

Nat contrasts Ditch Plains with Island Beach State Park from his childhood, highlighting the sense of familiarity and repeated encounters that foster a deeper community connection.

The Essence of Public Human Pleasure

The conversation delves into the idea of the beach as a rare space where physical human pleasure is openly sought and observed. Nat elaborates on this concept, emphasizing the beach's role as a counterbalance to the isolating and divisive elements prevalent in online interactions and societal politics.

“A place like the beach and in particular Ditch Plains, where all sorts of people crush in together, felt like the opposite of what I was experiencing online or even in my classrooms to a certain extent.”
— Nat Ward [02:15]

Listener Memories and Community Engagement

Throughout the episode, listeners call in to share their personal memories of Montauk, enriching the conversation with diverse perspectives:

• Thomas from Montclair, NJ reflects on his great aunt's windmill house in Montauk, underscoring the beach's generational impact.

• Kelly reminisces about her summer job at the Montauk Yacht Club in 1981, highlighting the adventurous spirit of the era post-Jaws.

• Carol shares her honeymoon memories at Khandira's Cottages in Ditch Plains, juxtaposing the serene past with the present's increased traffic and commercialization.

• Lisa from Oradel recounts her family's fishing excursions in the late 1950s, drawing connections to iconic figures like Quint from Jaws.

• Mary Ellen from Clearwater, FL discusses the evolving vibe of Montauk, balancing nostalgia with observations of its "Hamptonized" transformation.

Photographic Techniques and Artistic Vision

Nat Ward delves into his creative process, discussing his choice of black-and-white photography and panoramic formats to evoke nostalgia and highlight human interactions without the distraction of color.

“It's a tricky and maybe sneaky way to get people to look at body language, to look at interactions, to look at facial expression...”
— Nat Ward [19:39]

He shares anecdotes about capturing candid moments, such as the evocative image of a bare-chested man embodying the quintessential beach archetype. Nat emphasizes the importance of being present and integrated into the community to authentically document its essence.

Evolving Vibes and Community Layers

Addressing concerns about Montauk's changing atmosphere, Nat appreciates the layering of old and new cultures, noting that the core community remains intact despite the influx of new visitors.

“The vibe has changed, but what's interesting about Montauk is that it layers so the people who are still there are still there.”
— Nat Ward [28:33]

Exhibition and Accessibility

Nat Ward informs listeners about the exhibition of his photographs at the Montauk Historical Society, encouraging the community to engage with the visual narratives of their cherished beach.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks to Nat Ward and gratitude for the shared memories that highlight the enduring allure of Ditch Plains Beach. Nat's work serves as both a personal memoir and a communal archive, celebrating the timeless beauty and human connections fostered at Montauk's beloved shoreline.

Notable Quotes:

1. “Culture encompasses religion, food, what we wear, how we wear it, our language, marriage, music, what we believe is right or wrong, how we sit at the table, how we greet visitors, how we behave with loved ones, and a million other things.”
   — Cristina De Rossi [Podcast Description]

2. “A place like the beach and in particular Ditch Plains, where all sorts of people crush in together, felt like the opposite of what I was experiencing online or even in my classrooms to a certain extent.”
   — Nat Ward [02:15]

3. “It's a tricky and maybe sneaky way to get people to look at body language, to look at interactions, to look at facial expression...”
   — Nat Ward [19:39]

4. “The vibe has changed, but what's interesting about Montauk is that it layers so the people who are still there are still there.”
   — Nat Ward [28:33]

Engage with the Conversation

Listeners are encouraged to share their own Montauk stories by calling or texting 212-433-9692, contributing to the rich tapestry of experiences that define Ditch Plains Beach.

Availability

Nat Ward's photography book, Ditch, Montauk, New York, 11954, is available now, with select photographs on display at the Montauk Historical Society through Labor Day.

All Of It continues to serve as a companion and curator of New York City's diverse cultural landscape, fostering a sense of community through shared stories and artistic expression.