New York’s landscape is littered with affirmations of the present social order. The ubiquitous advertising, the monumental skyscrapers, even the inexorable grid-like layout of the city; all this seems to say that power reigns comfortably in the Big Apple.
But occasionally one stumbles upon a clear sign of dissent or an indicator of a different possible life (and sometimes these are even sanctioned by municipal officials!). Tom Otterness’s installation in the 14th Street and 8th Avenue subway station is a delightful case in point. His “Life Underground” reveals a fanciful world populated by workers, police, immigrants, homeless men and women, as well as various identifiable and unidentifiable animal species. It depicts an urban reality of work, conflict, and adventure. It also suggests that hidden in the subway’s subterranean depths are beings that will ultimately devour the world of capital.
The photos below capture a small slice of Otterness’s handiwork.
Funny… I was just at 14th street and I noticed the scupltures. I like how the money bags piece takes up a bench seat, the way the ruling class generally takes up space.
Wow, those are some really cool pics of some really cool art work! Your excellent description goes a long way in giving it an appropriate context. Might I suggest that you snap and post a pic of all the items on display? More than a few people, especially those on the west coast, would appreciate it!
Saludos, EL CHAVO!
Hola El Chavo!
thanks very much for your comments. Your blog has been a big inspiration to me. You’re an excellent photographer and i love the way you use photos to comment on broader issues. Great work.
that’s a good suggestion: I’ll try to swing by and photograph the rest of the sculptures/objects. For now, i just found some good photos of the installation here: http://www.nycsubway.org/perl/artwork?21
Saludos
Chuck
They’re gorgeous. Thanks Chuck.
These are terrific photos! Thanks for posting them. And your comments are excellent!