What is the Hudson River Pilings Project?

The Hudson River Pilings Project will be a temporary New York City public art project by local sculptor, Joan Benefiel.  The pile field of Pier 42 in the Hudson River will suddenly blossom with colorful, luminous sculptures perched on top of the old wooden pilings. 

Viewing will be free and open to the public 24/7 at Pier 42 where Houston Street ends in the Hudson River Park in downtown Manhattan.  The park is the largest open space project undertaken in Manhattan since the completion of Central Park.  It draws a diverse mix of millions of visitors every year, locally from the five boroughs of New York and from across the Hudson in New Jersey, and tourists and visitors from around the world. 

Struck with inspiration while watching a particularly dramatic and fiery sunset on the river’s edge in 2007, Joan sculpted these unique resin sculptures for the pilings and has been granted permission by the Hudson River Park Trust to install them pending funding.

With her project, Joan will share the breathtaking moment she experienced that evening.  This unique project, in this totally unexpected place, will afford a joyous and riveting public artwork experience that New York city and its visitors can enjoy.

For a couple months, the Hudson River Pilings Project will add a touch of intrigue and variety to New Yorker’s every day experience.  For people downtown who go to the park on a break from the office or to meet a friend; for tourists on a popular walking tour; for New Yorkers from all over the city who jog by and flock to the park regularly for general recreation:  The sculptures of the Hudson River Pilings Project will wait to be discovered and enjoyed by all.