‘Controversial Public Art in NYC’ Webinar

It’s a great honor to be raised on a pedestal and dominate a public urban space — but when values and legacies change, a once-revered public display can become offensive and intolerable. From sculptures installed against public opinion to statues of outdated role models, it’s time for a discussion around NYC public art pieces that have rubbed New Yorkers the wrong way, for better or for worse.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the past, present, and future of New York City’s most controversial art pieces.

Led by Sylvia Laudien-Meo — art historian, museum educator, and NYC tour guide — this virtual journey around NYC will include:

  • The role public art has in defining our sense of identity and values as a metropolis, and why having an ongoing debate about these pieces is important
  • Past NYC artworks that have been controversial, and which ones were (and weren’t) removed
  • A look at the most controversial sculptures in today’s public spotlight, from The Vessel to Christopher Colombus statue at Colombus Circle
  • Proposed projects to add artworks to the city’s displays, as well as ones being considered for replacement

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Sylvia — any and all questions about subway art are welcomed and encouraged!

Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually! $10.











When: Tue., Oct. 6, 2020 at 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

It’s a great honor to be raised on a pedestal and dominate a public urban space — but when values and legacies change, a once-revered public display can become offensive and intolerable. From sculptures installed against public opinion to statues of outdated role models, it’s time for a discussion around NYC public art pieces that have rubbed New Yorkers the wrong way, for better or for worse.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the past, present, and future of New York City’s most controversial art pieces.

Led by Sylvia Laudien-Meo — art historian, museum educator, and NYC tour guide — this virtual journey around NYC will include:

  • The role public art has in defining our sense of identity and values as a metropolis, and why having an ongoing debate about these pieces is important
  • Past NYC artworks that have been controversial, and which ones were (and weren’t) removed
  • A look at the most controversial sculptures in today’s public spotlight, from The Vessel to Christopher Colombus statue at Colombus Circle
  • Proposed projects to add artworks to the city’s displays, as well as ones being considered for replacement

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Sylvia — any and all questions about subway art are welcomed and encouraged!

Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually! $10.

Buy tickets/get more info now