"We had no idea Anthony Gormley would make something so grandiose. It definitely looks like it belongs in New York City. It fits the atmosphere and the big skyscrapers of the city.” (Jimin)
“Connect BTS” was created to further expand their public awareness. Pop phenomenon BTS mixed the two forms of communication to bridge the two arts and connect with people. It commissioned outdoor, public projects from exalted artists in five different cities: New York, Seoul, Buenos Aires, London, and Berlin.
It’s the mix of Kpop and modern art. BTS used their power to collaborate with renowned artists. The message behind the initiative is to take advantage of art’s capability for public involvement, incorporation, and unanimity.
The boys claimed to have been excited to see this sight in person. Despite their busy schedules, they went out of their way to make this a reality.
We had the chance to see the “New York Clearing” with the members of BTS. Although slightly chilly, we marveled at the art for roughly an hour. The memories we have on that chilly, New York day with BTS will stay with us forever. Good thing we made sure to capture all of it. Follow along with us.
This fascinating sculpture sits at the “Brooklyn Park”, on 334 Furman Street. It was the birth of an attraction sight for the citizens of New York and for tourists alike. The “Clearing” is the result of the “Connect BTS” project.
This article was written with the intentions to explain the art to fans who are unaware of the work. “Connect BTS” is meant to give word about BTS’s philosophy through modern art. It took twenty-two artists to complete.
Wildly acclaimed sculptor Antony Gormley, was the mastermind behind the “New York Clearing.” The aluminum art goes as far as 18km with 25mm, stretching as big as an average basketball court. The aluminum resembles a number of things but the beauty in the art lies in your imagination.
People have called it tumbleweed or a bird’s nest. The strings of the aluminum coils are tangled into a never-ending web. Surprisingly, this was Antony’s first ever outdoor project.
The view from the front of the “Clearing”
East River flowing slowly on a busy New York day.
New York in a nutshell.
New York buildings
The first person to welcome us with open arms, is art director Lee Daehyung. Director Lee is responsible for gathering the twenty-two artists for the project. We asked him a few questions. We especially wanted to know what made this so significant.
"I recommend getting the full experience by walking inside of the tangled art. The coils are different with the time of day and different with each person. I hope you get to experience the beautiful nature of this work.”
Another fact to be noted about this artwork is that they made it accessible to the physically disabled. A disabled person in a wheelchair is also able to get the full experience. It is placed at the very best spot for both able and disabled people.
Finally, BTS has arrived. The boys were in awe at the beauty of the sculpture. Upon their arrival, a curator stood outside and briefly explained the details of the artwork.
Art fanatic RM was especially curious about the tangled project. He spent his time asking questions and observing every nook and cranny.
"Gentleman, the New York Clearing" (RM)
"We’re finally here!"
"I love it!"
J-Hope preferred to spend this opportunity, taking pictures. He showed his admiration for the work by posing next to the picture and playing the role of personal photographer.
“I heard it was meant to overlook New York City. I think it’s amazing. This calls for a picture.” (J-Hope)
"Memories" (J-Hope)
"What do you think of the pictures, V?"
"Alright! It came out super neat!"
Jin and Suga were itching for knowledge. They installed an app, (AR) and used it to learn more about the “clearing.”
"Learn through AR" (Jin, Suga)
"You can take pictures through the app"
"J-Hope and his solo shot"
"Oops, we photobombed him"
V and Jimin decided on a skit. They simply acted as strangers, then shook hands. Although simple, it actually holds meaning. The intentions behind the skit were to emphasize their hopes. They hope for their large ARMY community to befriend people despite their sex, age, nationality, and ethnicity.
Camera, lights, action!
Thinking of you, ARMY. (V)
Thinking of you all too. (Jimin Park)
"Hi, nice to meet you"
The youngest, Jungkook had a lot of energy. He wanted to try his hand at photography. He’s always been very curious about our cameras. He also chose this exact spot for any fans who visits in the future.
"Pictures in New York."
"Say cheese" (ft. J-Hope)
"Coming soon!"
Lastly, we couldn’t say goodbye without a group picture. This is now a landmark for fans. If you decide to go in a group, we recommend posing just like the way the boys did, above.
"The art, BTS"
"Seven sculptures in New York?"
The NY Times has explained the initiative behind the work. They describe the connection between modern, popular art and connecting people through the message.
All good things must come to an end. Unfortunately, the “New York Clearing” will only be available till the 27th (2020). The exact address is Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 3, Brooklyn, NY.
-If you are taking the subway, get off at Clark St (2,3) or Court St (N,R,W). It’ll most likely be a fifteen-minute walk but we propose the use of Google maps just in case.
-If you’re taking the bus, take the B61 and B63. If you walk from the Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 or Atlantic Av/Hicks St, it’ll be a ten-minute walk.
-Public parking is available at Furman St in Pier 3. In the case you drove, parking around the street would be a better option.
<Photos by=Hojoon Lee(Dispatch)>
<Translated by=Justina Kim(Dispatch)>
