Eric Alexander Matthews reflects on his life in Astoria, Queens, and his long relationship with Socrates Sculpture Park. Raised in the Astoria Houses after being born in Brooklyn, Matthews describes the area where the park now stands as an undeveloped and avoided space during his childhood, and its evolution into the contemporary version of Socrates in 2026. He discusses his over-fifteen year relationship with the park, and how it became a central partner in his community work. During that time, he has served on the park’s board and, beginning around 2019, worked as Director of Grounds and Operations for five years. In that role, Matthews collaborated closely with the park’s fabrication and maintenance teams, supported artists installing large-scale sculptures, and helped develop youth programs focused on practical skills such as gardening, landscaping, and irrigation. The interview highlights the collaborative culture of Socrates Sculpture Park, Matthews’s relationships with colleagues and artists, and his experiences maintaining the park’s landscape and infrastructure. Throughout the conversation, he discusses broader changes in Astoria, including rapid development, rising housing costs, and shifting community dynamics. Matthews ultimately emphasizes the park’s role as an essential urban green space and cultural resource for both longtime residents and newcomers. Interview conducted by Danica Stompor.