Image 1
This image of “the crime scene” graffiti on the road of the Williamsburg bridge was surprising to me as it had an extremely violent connotation. Among a lot of colourful street art on the roads as well as iron beams that hold it up, it is interesting to see the range of subjects the public art talks about. While some is focused on phrases of motivation such as “keep going” others like this one touches a completely different subject.
Image 2
The second image from Chelsea had a hoarding that said “End White Supremacy”. Being an international student I often notice such signs that suggest the need for equality, justice and fraternity in the state. This statement raised questions of bias as well as unequal opportunities for the minorities.
Image 3
This third image was extremely enthralling to find as this manhole in the centre of Manhattan had “Made in India” engraved on it. In my mind, this raised questions of codependence as well as interrelated and connected states that need to coexist across the world.
Image 4
The fourth image is from Bluestockings Bookstore. It was surprising as the culture where I come from is not as open minded. Things related to sexual intercoruse and orientation remain to stay in the private realm and don’t enter public spaces or public life.
Image 5
Image 5 is from an alley that had a poster that said #SaveFreemansAlley. I found this interesting as it was contradictory to all the graffiti on Williamsburg bridge as well as public art across New York. The by line states that illegal corporate advertising is discouraged. This raises question of vandalism as well as the line between free expression, art and advertising.
Image 6
Image 6 is from Blue stockings bookstore as well. “Black Lives Matter” was written right as your enter the store. The store in general has a socio-political vibe to it. Having such a bookstore that encourages sharing your thoughts, needs and expectations I feel is crucial in urban life ands the diverse society that we live in.
