In the 1970s, the decline of manufacturing in the United States was evident in Long Island City, a major industrial area in New York City. At that time, artists escaping Manhattan prices and then Brooklyn prices began establishing studios throughout Long Island City. Many of L.I.C.’s old industrial buildings were transformed into art studios. Since then L.I.C. has become home to many unique types of artists pursuing their dreams and trying to make a name for themselves in the artistic world.