📍Van Alen Institute | ☀️ Summer 2024

Research Question

In which NYC neighborhoods are public art pieces primarily located, and what factors might contribute to their concentration in these areas? Furthermore, what purpose do these pieces hold, and how does it affect the community they are in?

Goals

• Create a visual representation of different concentrations of public art in various neighborhoods in Brooklyn
• Group and analyze the influence of these public art pieces
• Research the communities and find connections as to why they do or do not have access to public art

Methodology

Using open-source data on public art installations in NYC, I developed an interactive virtual map inspired by the NYC Parks website. Artworks are categorized based on their community interactivity, cultural or historical significance, and aesthetic value.

• Community-engaged works invite public participation.
• Cultural/historical pieces reflect the neighborhood’s heritage.
• Beautification pieces enhance visual appeal but are less tied to community history or involvement.

This tool can support organizations like Van Alen in identifying and expanding access to public art in underserved areas.

Results

1. Manhattan features the most diverse and well-balanced collection of public art, spanning all three categories.
2. Beautification and historical pieces are often located near high-traffic tourist areas, while community-engaged works tend to be concentrated in culturally vibrant neighborhoods such as Washington Heights and Harlem, where community connection and participation are central.
3. Brooklyn shows a strong emphasis on community-engaged pieces, suggesting a focus on participatory public art.