Tobey Parker
Professor O’Dea & Hernandez
History of Modern and Contemporary
Site Specific Art at the New School
The Vera List Courtyard is an open space in the 66 West 12th building created by Michael Van Valkenburgh in 1997. The courtyard exists between the two entrances of this building, which exist at two different elevations. Not only does the courtyard act as a bridge between the two parts of this building, but it also provides ample space for students and teachers from The New School to lounge. A set of Three sitting elements, made from different materials by artist Martin Puryear is prominent element within the piece. Two of these reside in the courtyard space, and one just beyond the glass door entrance to the space, on the 12th street side of the building. These sitting elements in conjunction with the foliage and cement ground create a space which does not feel out of space within the city. When compared to brownstones which are lined up along 12th and 11th streets surrounding this building, the form of the space seems derivative of its surroundings.
The sitting elements by Puryear are cone shaped and allow for students to sit on them. The rounded cone shape in the center allows for students and faculty to rest their backs as they sit on the base. It is evident how this space puts much emphasis on functionality, which works exceptionally on a campus, and in a building designed for education. The space is used by those taking a break, socializing, reading a book, and for many studying. The foliage does a great job of making the space feel organic and attached to the outside world. For many people, being in class all day and it being dark by the time they exit the building can feel so jarring, but having the roof of the space be open provides a solution for this. The spinning top-esqe sitting pieces by Puryear do not feel out of place, especially since one of them is made of stone, which harkens back to the cement of the ground and the natural elements like trees and plants inside of the space.
In addition to being used by both students and faculty to lounge, the courtyard could also be used to host events. The space is unlike any other on The New School’s campus, which would provide for a unique setting. The idea of simultaneously being inside and out would become evident as the sky changes above those attending. Due to the courtyard being flanked on all edges, the taller buildings which surround the space and their lights remind you that you are still within a city, but also nestled within this space. The aspect of being inside a building whilst also being outside in a courtyard with plants and trees provides for an interesting perspective and a dichotomy of sensory interaction.
Overall, this space fits perfectly into its surroundings, and Puryear’s sitting elements into this space. The space ties into the architecture which flanks it, as well as bringing some of the outside textures and nature in, literally becoming an escape for those who interact with it. The inclusion of this courtyard feels so necessary to student life and the building it resides in.