PHOTOS: Art Installation Transforms Prospect Park Bandshell

PROSPECT PARK, BROOKLYN — A new art installation has transformed the Prospect Park Bandshell into a message of strength for 2020.

The exhibit, which debuted over the weekend, is the first art installation in the park since the pandemic hit New York City and one of the first to ever grace the Bandshell stage, according to the Prospect Park Alliance.

Built by Crown Heights duo "Brooklyn Hi-Art! Machine," the installation uses fence weavings to bring to life a portion of text from the late poet Lucille, who wrote about the Black experience and endurance in the face of adversity.

“This public art work provides a message of strength and joy, celebrating and uniting our community during these difficult times,” said Kristina Newman-Scott, president of BRIC, who commissioned the installation with the Alliance.

The installation is an extension of Brooklyn Hi-Art! Machine's ongoing project to reimagine public spaces. The project was created in 2010 by artists Oasa DuVerney and Mildred Beltre.

At the bandshell exhibit — titled "Inspired By 'What Is Left'" — the duo used fence weavings as a way of rethinking a barrier typically used to separate an immigrant community. The colorful lettering is inspired by the neon colors of protest posters, according to organizers.

"The artwork aims to remind viewers of the struggles that have been faced and the work yet to be done for racial equity," a release about the artwork says.

"Inspired By 'What Is Left'" will be on display until May 2021.

Check out photos of the installation and the full text of the poem below:

“won’t you celebrate with me” by Lucille Clifton
won't you celebrate with me

what i have shaped into

a kind of life? i had no model.

born in babylon

both nonwhite and woman

what did i see to be except myself?

i made it up

here on this bridge between

starshine and clay,

my one hand holding tight

my other hand; come celebrate

with me that everyday

something has tried to kill me

and has failed.