Sol LeWitt Brightens Up Underground New York

The late Minimalist artist Sol LeWitt has brought a giant splash of liveliness to the New York City subway system. LeWitt’s Whirls and Twirls (MTA) was unveiled at the 59th Street-Columbus Circle station. The saturated rainbow wall of 250 porcelain tiles is sure to visually stimulate the estimated 69,000 commuters who pass through the station daily. Although the artist known for detailed wall drawings of the same color palette was not around to witness the installation of his five-year project, its legacy is sure to live on in this sea of blue, green, yellow, orange, red, and purple. “It’s one of the largest projects we’ve ever done,” said Sandra Bloodworth, director of Arts for Transit and facilities design for the MTA. Two more of LeWitt’s designs, both built for the station’s floor, are scheduled to be installed this fall.