Pubic art is seen everywhere in NYC. However, the works of art that people notice are generally in popular areas like the East Village, not small residential areas in Brooklyn such as Midwood. And so, when stepping off the Q train onto the Avenue J platform, one does not expect to see art. Instead, one anticipates to simply walk down the platform towards the exit, go down the steps and continue on with their day. Yet, if one would tilt their head they would see a portrayal of opportunity and freedom; they would see a work of craftsmanship. For many years I held the mindset that my area of Brooklyn would not have art to offer. And so, like so many others, I have walked past art without even realizing it. By doing so, I had missed what was right before me: the large mosaic wall running alongside the steps up to the Avenue J platform.
The wall was commissioned in 2011 by the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) as part of their Arts and Design program. This program strives to enhance the commuter experience by employing various artists to decorate MTA stations throughout all five boroughs of New York City. These artist come from all walks of life and are both famous and emerging. This particular piece of art at the Avenue J train station is a mosaic titled Bird Laid Bare by Rita MacDonald, a New York based artist. It depicts a layer of tiled wall that seems to peel off so as to reveal a scene of vibrant red birds perched atop vines connected to bright yellow flowers. Further down the wall, a lone bird with open wings prepares to leap out and ascend in flight out into the world beyond the confines of its wall.
The birds, that are seemingly escaping their confined space on the wall, are inspiring and metaphorical. Their expanded wings indicate their eagerness to fly away, just like the wheels of the subway cart that can guide you to a different destination. Their red color symbolizes the valor and strength of the people that use these tracks. And, the uncovering of the tiled wall represents what is yet to be discovered in so many people. The people that you pass by on a day to day basis may seem mundane and basic, but if you peel off a layer, something beautiful can be revealed.
To some, this mosaic may seem out of place. The little local stop is not one that is expected to receive such special attention. But, the artist has made the station unique by adding her work to it. Even if it is overlooked by many, it is no longer overlooked by me. The walls are a constant reminder to explore, uncover, and discover new places and new people.
