COMMON GROUND is NYC’s newest outdoor art installation–and, just in time for spring, it’s bringing some much-needed color to Brooklyn’s The Plaza at 300 Ashland.
Created by Cheryl Wing-Zi Wong, with lighting design and programming by Xena Petkanas and Christoph Gisel, Arup, the new interactive artwork is comprised of a colorful landscape that offers the perfect spot to grab a seat and take a load off.
Inspired by the geometry of shrines and sacred spaces and referencing the terraces of the site, floor motifs dance across the plaza completely transforming the space into a colorful oasis–a site we’re all welcoming with open arms after a dull, drab winter.
And COMMON GROUND is arguably more fascinating at night, when color-changing lights illuminate the installation responding to sensors that register environmental audio–think: footsteps on the structure itself, movement by passersby, voices, and even the sound of traffic.
But this installation is more than just an Insta-worthy way to brighten up your day (and the night)–a series of performances are enhancing the experience.
The performance schedule is as follows:
- Thursday, April 6, 7p.m. – 8p.m. – Rejoice in the energy of life as a community with a performance by Peniel Guerrier and Kriye Bode bring Haitian Rara.
- Thursday, April 13, 7p.m. – 8p.m. – Kendra J. Ross shares her work-in-progress, Portals: Traversing Black Continuums, a multi-sensory journey through time, space, generations, and dimensions.
- Thursday, April 20, 7:30p.m. – 8:15p.m. – Female, multicultural dance trio Soles of Duende present a spirited collaboration across disciplines and the celebration of tap, flamenco, and Kathak dance.
- Saturday, April 22, time tbd – Pratt Institute’s fashion department will put on JUNIOR THESIS – a fashion performance featuring selected works from year-end collections. (Rain Date: Saturday, April 29, time tbd)
Through a dazzling display of ever-changing, kaleidoscope transformations, COMMON GROUND serves both as a colorfully bold addition to the plaza, as well as a welcoming spot to gather around and explore various perceptions of light and color.
COMMON GROUND is on display now through Monday, May 1, 2023.