TIM-SCAPES | PTOWN

The most striking thing about Provincetown, is its detachment from the ostentatiousness of the New England beach scene. A stroll though the principal street that is Commercial, leaves one at a leisurely pace, soaking in the Cape Cod sun and the fresh, salt-water air.

I was visually arrested when stumbling upon a bold, black, and orange sign that evoked the weight and beauty of Herb Lubalin’s glyphs and stylized slab-serif type. The graphic was originally conceived by the structuring of duct tape, evoking the sort of grime perhaps more suited to Brooklyn. More water towers and bridges, as opposed to lighthouses and lobsters.

The sign, and the miscellany of genuine articles sold inside the double story space, all bear variations of graphic work by Tim Convery. Think awe-inspiring souvenirs to take back home, t-shirts, blankets, totes, hoodies, and limited edition prints that all bear unique Provincetown art.

Convery, who lives upstairs is a design veteran. His curriculum vitae is steeped with New York creative experience. He worked with Paula Scher in the 80’s and spent many years building cosmetic brands. Relocating to Provincetown, he is a radiating beacon of the relaxed beach culture that burgeons in the area.

There are plans to sell gear online very soon. Until then you could always make a trip and check out the endearing store on 394 Commercial.

Provincetown, MA

Asphalt defines the beach at Herring Cove, paving the way for a serene bicycle zip along the seaside. This is Provincetown. It is here where the wheels whirl and the ocean whispers.

A scenic path designated for bikers and runners alike, meanders through a beach forest, moss, and silky dunes.

A tea dance at the Boatslip signaled sumer early. Fashionably sizzling, the varied crowd keeps cool. Golden Adidas high tops and funky boat shoes of shapes and sizes prod the wooden deck. The tide of the afternoon ocean rises. Kylie Minogue’s “Time Bomb” makes for an explosive backdrop as the blazing sun energizes the crowd and the infinite New England horizon glistens. My Brooklyn Summer Ale never tasted so good.

Nibbles out and around the town included seafood fare of all sorts: freshly shucked Wellfleet oysters with horseradish at the local farmer’s market, uncomplicated swordfish with mango, seafood frittatas, and succulent lobster rolls.

Amidst the many that sell kitschy beach trinkets otherwise known as dust collectors, Item is the sort of beach boutique you would want to put on your list. While the anchor graphic that is part of the shop’s logo is hardly groundbreaking, the word “item” is typeset alongside in American Typewriter and is quite noteworthy.

Seeing it on the tags attached to the apparel for sale and on shopping bags too, unlocked its branding potential. The boutique is filled with well curated pieces from Scotch and Soda and Rag and Bone to name a few. While much at Item is beach inspired, everything is steeped with city attitude. The luxe tees and dainty leather belts are the sort anyone would happily rock on the streets of Manhattan.

© 2012 Faris Habayeb