“Public Art Reaction” “Field Trip”

"Art in Public"

Our project number #5 is "Public Art Reaction" we were asked to look around where we live for outdoor art. 
So here I am in Queens, NY., Standing in front of one of the biggest "Open Art" ever. "The Globe" that is how I describe it. This outdoor feature is right next to the Queens Museum of Art. This huge outdoor structure makes a beautiful display of steel.  I believe that is because the park is so huge and their are other pieces of open art displayed here as well in Flushing Meadow Park this is a perfect surroundings for the "Globe." People feel drawn to "The Globe" from all over the world. It has become a landmark. I know that by having this "Globe" next to famous places like; Citi field, US National Tennis Center, Queens Zoo, and The New York Hall Of Science it gets seen a lot. 

"Technical Information"

"The Globe" is actually called "Unisphere" and is the world's largest global structure. It rises in the air to about 140 feet and the total weight is around 700,000 to 900,000 pounds including the base. The sphere itself is 120 feet wide and is constructed of stainless steel. The Unisphere was built for the 1964 New York World's Fair. 


The Unisphere is centered in a large circular reflecting pool and is surrounded by a series of water jet fountains. These fountains are their to obscure the tripod pedestal  This effect seems to make the Unisphere appear as if it is floating in space or on its own. As you can see from the picture in the right. This piece of artwork seem to communicate that no matter how heavy things are in life we are one nation and that we should all come together as one. This monumental structure was built with the idea of world peace in mind. I believe that back in the 1960's everyone needed a symbol to show unity. So it was decided by the US Steel Corporation [who build the Unisphere] that this would be used as that symbol of world peace and to give lift off to our newly launched exploration into space.
This Unisphere over the years has made its way into TV shows and even movies. Plenty of times we have seen famous people who have came to the park to enjoy the scenery. Also It is peaceful to sit their and watch the families play in the water. On the weekends we see some people do performances at "The Globe" for free.
Plenty of days and nights we go to Flushing Meadow Park to relax. My sons actually skateboard here everyday. [weather permitting... but here is my oldest son using the sphere as a backdrop for his skateboarding to make a cool picture to promote his talent.] 

Overall I truly believe that the Unisphere does "unite" everybody that does come to the park. In the distance you can see the flags from different countries waving in the wind. If this were to be placed in a different park or inside a building. I truly believe it would loose its meaning. It would become more of a map instead of a "symbol of unity."


Here is the link for "The Unishpere" on NYC Parks and art installations in Flushing Meadows Park:

http://www.nycgovparks.org/park-features/virtual-tours/flushing-meadows/unisphere


other information about the Unisphere:

Built: 1964 
Designed by: Gilmore D. Clarke 
Unisphere was donated by: The United States Steel Corporation 
Constructed by: The American Bridge Company