ARTS FOR TRANSIT: Franklin Avenue.

Ever since I moved to New York City for graduate school, I've been fascinated and intrigued by the public art in the subways.  I love the idea that a work of art on the walls or taking place in front of you can provide a moment of pause and possible introspection during the bustle of the commute.

Sponsored by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Arts for Transit combines the long-term rehabilitation of the subway system with site-specific permanent installations created by contemporary artists.

I feel that the public art in the subways is all too often overlooked, so I created an outfit inspired by one of the most beautiful stained glass installations at the Franklin Avenue subway station in Brooklyn.  This is the first in what I hope to be a series of posts inspired by public art in the subways.

Franklin Avenue - slide show

The Franklin Avenue station opened on the Elevated train in 1896.  It was completely rebuilt in 1998-1999, and it was at this time that Pryor's work was installed.

Life and Continued Growth, by Eric Pryor, consists of 29 plate-glass windows on the subway platform that feature African-American imagery as a reflection of the diversity of the surrounding neighborhood.

"Change and opportunity are arriving and the shuttle line both encourages and reflects the community's new optimism." --Eric Pryor

I'm wearing a Plenty by Tracy Reese coat, H&M tights, and Candela oxfords.

[All photos captured by me.]