5 Outdoor Art Installations to Visit in NYC
In 1967, the Art in the Parks program was founded as a way to inspire New York City residents. More than 2,000 outdoor public artworks were developed from the Bronx to Staten Island. Art in the Parks has collaborated with art organizations and artists making New York City one of the largest open-air galleries in the world.
Courtesy of The High Line
1. “Old Tree”
Pamela Rosenkranz
@ The High Line on the Spur
May 2023 - Fall 2024
This is the third commission presented at the High Line, Plinth and takes the form of a bold red and pink sculpture that animates its environment. The vibrant colors chosen to mimic the vascular system draw a connection between humans and nature as the tree’s branches inhabit its environment. Pamela Rosenkranz is a Swiss-based conceptual artist who invites viewers to question what is “artificial” or “natural” in our world today.
Phyllida Barlow, In-Process image of “Antic,” 2023 at 4th State Metals, NY Corten steel, fiberglass, lacquer. Courtesy of the artist’s estate and Hauser & Wirth Photo: Asya Gorovits, Public Art Fund, NY Artworks a part of “Phyllida Barlow: PRANK,” New York City, June - November 2023.
2. “PRANK”
Phyllida Barlow
@ City Hall Park, Lower Manhattan
June 6 – November 2023
On June 6th, the public art fund will be exhibiting PRANK, a large-scale sculpture from the final series of the late British artist, Phyllida Barlow. Seven steel and fiberglass works will be showcased in City Hall Park. This is the first series of outdoor works from the artist’s legacy. Barlow reimagines everyday domestic objects in gravity-defying compositions. Each piece plays off of the artist’s moniker known as Barlow’s “rabbit ears.” Expect armchairs, ironing boards, and pianos stacked in playful and surprising ways.
Courtesy of the Artist, Dumbo Brooklyn, NY - Clumber Corner Park - (2022 - present)
3. "Sky's the Limit in the County of Kings"
Sherwin Banfield
@ the Brooklyn Bridge
Now - October 31, 2023
Calling all Notorious B.I.G. fans: A sculpture dedicated to Brooklyn native and hip-hop legend Christopher Wallace will be on display for a limited time at the entrance of the Brooklyn Bridge. Erected in 2022 to honor the 25th anniversary of Biggie’s death, artist Sherwin Banfield created a 9-foot tall memorial on display in Brooklyn. This stainless-steel structure features a bust of Wallace adorned with a crown and panels showcasing his contributions to the music industry. It also plays the greatest hits by the rapper through solar-powered speakers for all to enjoy upon viewing.
Carole Fuerman, "Justice," lacquer on Bronze with Polished Stainless Steel Sphere. Courtesy of the artist..
4. "Sea Idylls"
Carole Fuerman
@ Park Avenue, between 34th and 39th
Now - December 2023
A sea of swimmers are taking over the prestigious Park Avenue. Known for her hyper-realistic sculptures, Fuerman has created a collection of larger-than-life works that capture the essence of summer. The artist has created an escape for New Yorkers as she romanticises the beauty and charm of humanity. Her exhibition glamorises all things swimming, staging her muses with swimsuits, beach balls, and splashes of water.
Judith Peck, "Ladies of Steel," lacquer on Bronze with Polished Stainless Steel Sphere. Courtesy of the artist.
5. "Ladies of Steel"
Judith Peck
@ Dag Hammarskjold Plaza
Now - August 24, 2023
This exhibition sits at the entrance to the UN as it celebrates International Womens Day and Women's History Month. Her work showcases four confident "ladies" made of steel as she highlights the strength and resilience of women through every curve life takes them on.
https://www.sherwinbanfield.com