The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs’ (DCLA) commissioned Ester Partegàs’ artwork for Plaza de las Americas site through its Percent for Art Program. The Plaza de las Americas project created a 16,000 square feet of pedestrian space at W 175th Street between Broadway and Wadsworth Avenue for the Northern Manhattan community. Together, DOT, DDC and DCLA worked closely with the community, conducting interviews, and public sessions to ensure the new plaza design met their needs. The artwork, The Source, is a functioning drinking water fountain that includes brightly colored mosaic patterns inspired by the richness and diversity of cultures that make up the Americas and imprints of milk crates on pigmented concrete that brings us to the livelihood and vitality of New York City streets. The work serves as a distinctive landmark in the community.
All photos: Mark Woods