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Public Art Fund presents Tatzu Nishi. Discovering Columbus

Public Art Fund presents Tatzu Nishi: Discovering Columbus, a large-scale temporary installation, on view September 20–November 18, 2012, inviting visitors to experience New York City’s iconic statue of Christopher Columbus as never before.

This major new work recontextualizes the historical monument at the center of Columbus Circle, placing it in the middle of a contemporary living room, six stories above the street. The creation of Japanese artist Tatzu Nishi, the work temporarily transforms the traditional monument into a contemporary artwork, reshaping visitors’ perceptions of both. And through large, loft-style windows, the work grants visitors dramatic views of Central Park and Midtown Manhattan that can be seen, for the first time, from Columbus’s perspective. As with all Public Art Fund projects, this commission is presented to the public free of charge; visitors may reserve passes in half hour increments through the Public Art Fund website: www.publicartfund.org.

In conjunction with this exhibition, Public Art Fund is also overseeing the conservation of the Columbus Monument in cooperation with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation.

Since its unveiling in 1892 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s first voyage to the Americas, the monument, designed by Italian sculptor Gaetano Russo, has been one of New York’s most iconic statues. When Discovering Columbus opens on September 20th, visitors will ascend to the room—and the figure of Columbus—by climbing six flights of stairs within the scaffolding for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience this New York City monument.

Visitor Information
Free timed passes, in 30 minute intervals, are available through the Public Art Fund website: www.publicartfund.org.

Entry to this exhibition is by timed ticket only, and each visitor must present his or her own pass to enter. Each pass is valid only for the date and time indicated and grants access to the exhibition for up to 30 minutes. The line to enter the exhibition forms within Columbus Circle at the northwest entrance. Part of the exhibition is outdoors, so visitors are asked to dress accordingly.

Pass holders are asked to climb six flights of stairs to a height of 70 feet above street level and to descend by a second set of stairs. Flat, rubber-soled shoes are strongly recommended.

This exhibition is ADA accessible. If a visitor requires the use of a mobility device (e.g. wheelchair, crutches, or a cane) or has a condition that prevents him or her from using the stairs, a hoist is available.

Columbus Circle
intersection of Eighth Avenue, Broadway,
Central Park South (West 59 Street),
and Central Park West, New York City
Hours: 10–9pm daily
www.publicartfund.org

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