The winner of the eighth annual “Flatiron Public Plaza Holiday Design Competition,” put on by the Flatiorn/23rd St. Partnership and the Van Alen Institute, was just announced (and installed)! It’s called “Interwoven,” and was created by bi-coastal design and concept firm Atelier Cho Thompson.
The sculpture was “inspired by New York’s tapestry of cultures and people” and “celebrates the joys of reconnecting in public space.” Full of interconnected archways, each section has color-coded sensors that are activated when two or more people pass through sensors of the same color. Then, Interwoven responds with corresponding lights and musical compositions inspired by the installation’s themes from Dylan Schifrin, Nathan Chamberlain, Will Orzo, Marisa Gupta, Dan Weissman and Christina Cho Yoo, their website explains.
The sculpture’s archways, hammock, and benches are constructed with a steel framing, netting, resin panels, and high-density cork.
There is also an “interactive story wall” that’s part of Interwoven, created from backlit papers hung on a grid where visitors can answer the prompt: “I dream of a world where together we can…”
Because of its arched frame, you can look up and view all of the landmarks in the Flatiron district —the MetLife Clock Tower of course, the Flatiron Building, and even the Empire State Building farther uptown — in a much different light (literally!). There are even sections for sitting if you want to take a rest — from benches to comfy hammocks!
The sculpture will be on view from now through January 2, 2022, open to the public daily with weather permitting. Even during the day without the lights, it’s still quite the colorful sight (see below)! Find it at 27 W 24th St.
