The New York City Subway Art Tour: A Journey Through the City's Hidden Museum
New York City's subway system is more than just a means of transportation; it's a vibrant, ever-changing art gallery that often goes unnoticed by the daily commuters. This is a story of how one man, Darryl Reilly, discovered this hidden treasure and turned it into a unique tour experience. His passion for performance art and his background in cinema studies led him to explore the city's subway art, which he believes is a form of direct communication between artists and the public.
Reilly's journey began with a simple observation: the stunning 'Alice: The Way Out' murals at 50th Street. This sparked his curiosity and led him to research the city's subway art, learning about the artists and their works. He realized that there was a lack of city tours dedicated to this unique art form, so he decided to create his own.
The MTA Arts and Design program, established in 1985, plays a crucial role in this story. It commissions visual and performing arts across New York City's transit system, resulting in a collection of over 400 artworks by established, mid-career, and emerging artists. These artworks are not just static; they are dynamic, evolving with the city's energy and culture.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the tour is the attention to detail. Reilly points out the plaques next to each artwork, explaining how the mosaic companies design the murals to fit the walls. This attention to detail adds a layer of appreciation for the art, making it more than just a visual treat.
The tour takes visitors to various stations, each with its own unique artwork. At Times Square, the 'Revelers' by Jane Dickson brings the station to life with 70 revelers, depicting the cross-section of humanity. The 'Stationary Figures' by William Wegman at 23rd Street is another highlight, featuring 11 glass mosaic panels based on Wegman's photographs of his dogs, posing like humans.
Reilly's tour also introduces visitors to lesser-known artworks, such as 'Under Bryant Park' by Samm Kunce, which features everything under the park, from roots of trees to pipes and rocks. The tour also includes a fun fact about the New York Public Library's storage rooms with millions of books under Bryant Park, adding a layer of historical context.
The tour is not just about the art; it's also about the people who appreciate it. Reilly shares stories of commuters who have never noticed the art, like Chetty, who was surprised by the 'Alice' mural. He also mentions the joy of seeing tourists slow down to admire the art, like the woman who used a sculpture as a makeshift hanger.
The tour's impact goes beyond the art itself. It's a reminder that New York City is a living, breathing museum, with art sneaking up on us when we least expect it. As Reilly says, we are in an extraordinary museum every time we are underground.
In conclusion, the New York City Subway Art Tour is a unique and captivating experience that showcases the city's hidden artistic treasures. It's a testament to the power of art to surprise and inspire, even in the most unexpected places.
