The National Museum of Women in the Arts is about to add pizzazz to New York Avenue.
Starting April 18, four installations of large whimsical sculptures will be placed along the avenue from 13th to R streets.
This is only the beginning of the "New York Avenue Sculpture Project." It will be the fist and only major outdoor sculpture corridor in the District.
If the first edition is any indication, the rotating array of sculptures will create huge visual interest and jazz up the area around the museum -- a treat for motorists and pedestrians alike. The first four installations are spectacular. "The Three Graces" is three voluptuously hysterical women celebrating the female figure with a delightful sense of humor. Another is a sculpture of Michael Jordan that will please sports fans and art enthusiasts alike. Next, is the "Serpent Tree," multicolored and alive. The fourth is a playful, large and wonderful woman surfing on a dolphin with one foot.
All four sculptures are by the French sculpture Niki de Saint Phalle, who died in 2002.
For a rendition of what the block will look like, go to the National Museum of Women and the Arts Web site. Then click on "Sculpture Project Images" to view the sculptures just described. You'll agree that this area of the city will be happily transformed.
In the future, the corridor of sculptures will be expanded in the New York Avenue area all the way to Mount Vernon Square on Ninth Street. It is a contribution to the city from the National Museum of Women in the Arts that will be appreciated and bring surprise smiles to unsuspecting people turning the corner and coming upon these wonderful outdoor vision of the arts.
