New York Avenue Sculpture ProjectThe New York Avenue Sculpture Project was initiated as a partnership between the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) and the DowntownDC BID, now involving the D.C. Office of Planning (OP), the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and other local agencies. The project seeks to redefine New York Avenue as a pedestrian-friendly corridor and strengthen its sense of place as an arts and cultural district.
The project spans New York Avenue between Herald Square at 13th Street and Mount Vernon Square at 9th Street. Phase 1 of the project, extending between 13th and 12th streets, was completed in 2010. The sculpture median displays rotating art installations by contemporary female artists, complemented by landscaping, lighting, and interpretive signage.
The DowntownDC BID’s Safety/Hospitality and Maintenance employees (SAMs) work year-round to maintain the works and the landscaping surrounding them while they are on display.
Currently, four sculptures by Betsabeé Romero are on display through Sept. 20, 2020.
Five sculpture works by artist Magdalena Abakanowicz of Poland were on display from Sept. 27, 2014-Sept. 27, 2015.
From 2010 to 2012, Niki de Saint Phalle was the featured artist. From 2012-2014, works by Chakaia Booker were on display.
For more information, visit NMWA’s website.