Today marks the kick-off of two exciting public art projects.
Photo by aloha orangeneko
Photo by aloha orangeneko
Canstruction
This is an annual competition in which teams of engineers and architects create sculptures out of (full) cans of food. Afterward, all of the cans will be donated to organizations that combat hunger. Last year, I loved some of the imaginative entries like a changing walk/don’t walk sign, a world map, and a giant slice of pumpkin pie.
In New York, it starts today at the World Financial Center, and the canned works of art are viewable to the public until Thanksgiving. (To see what’s happening in over 100 other cities, see the Canstruction website.) They just ask that you bring a can of food to donate while you’re checking out the exhibition.
I love this project because it’s a creative way to get professionals and the public involved in a nonprofit cause, the sculptures are impressive, and it’s just so much fun. I was happy to learn that artists will be judged on the nutritional value of their work. Last year I remember thinking that I know sardines and tuna are relatively good for you, but just because they’re convenient shapes for construction doesn’t mean that food pantries want to be overflowing with them.
In Plain Site
This project by ArtBridge opens today on 23rd Street (between 9th and 10th Avenues) in Manhattan. Contemporary art pieces were selected to be hung in one of the most public spots imaginable: right on the streets of New York City. In a unique partnership, the pieces are pasted to the side of scaffolding used in construction. Scaffolding is such a common sight in the city—why not turn it into a fine art exhibit?