new this week - an incredible collection of over 300 public art sculptures are scattered throughout the five-boroughs. i knew this was coming soon, and was pleasantly surprised to stumble upon this one in washington square park.
a cage-like structure placed within the triumphal arch, has created a barrier within the historic landmark. as much of weiwei's work - it speaks to a theme of immigration struggles, artificial barriers and identity, while reflecting on the layered history of each selected site.
the success of this installation is its ownership of the space, forcing us to experience and interact with our environment differently. new yorkers walk an unconscious line every day, which is now blocked or obscured. the mirrored central arch gives us the opportunity to pause for a moment and become aware of the reflections of ourselves and those around us.
as with most successful public art works - the "arch" brings us together to share in a collective alternative experience.
