On May 1, the Big Apple will celebrate two significant occasions: the public opening of the new Whitney Museum building and the 84th birthday of the Empire State Building.
The two institutions partnered together to create an LED light show that features 12 iconic artists, including Andy Warhol, interpreted by Emmy-nominated production designer Marc Brickman.
Displayed on the Empire State Building for 30 minutes each, artists to be paid tribute to are Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper, Peter Halley, Elizabeth Murray, Mark Rothko, Barbara Kruger and more. From 8pm to 2am, the massive show will cover the building’s entire structure to not only celebrate occasions, but to also emulate the greatest artists of the 20th century.
Most of the works that inspired the show are on view at Whitney Museum’s inaugural exhibition, “American Is Hard to See”. The array of color palettes and paintings are translated for the public to commemorate art and artists in America.
According to Anthony E. Malkin, the chairman and chief executive of Empire State Realty Trust, “This is not meant to be a reproduction; it’s meant to be representational. This is performance art.”
Prior to the celebration, a special light celebration will take place where artists can flip the switch and illuminated the building. There will also be a private viewing of the light show that evening at the museum’s outdoor terraces with spectacular views.
For more information, visit the Whitney Museum website.
