New ‘Love’ Sculpture In NYC Is Spelled Without The ‘E’
Image via Pasha Radetzki / New York Foundation for the Arts
You’ve seen Robert Indiana’s LOVE artworks dotted around the world. Now, be prepared for LOV. More than just pretty letters—and a typo—this interactive installation by Manhattan-based artist Pasha Radetzki blossoms in the center lawn of Union Square to spark conversation about self, love, and the delicate balance between the two.
Fully titled Love-Ego=LOV, the sculpture was selected by NYC Parks and the Union Square Partnership, and unveiled on May 5, as part of the latter’s Unity on Union Square initiative.
The vibrant, plywood centerpiece consists of three brightly colored, uppercase letters: a grassy green ‘L’, a sunshine yellow ‘O’, and a magenta pink ‘V’, Standing tall and proud, these incomplete segments hints at a familiar word.
'Love-Ego=LOV': New sculpture in @UnionSquareNY promotes unity, provides venue for public art â¤ï¸ðŸŽ¨ https://t.co/VKuF7G6kaw pic.twitter.com/Pf46Wh0LJN
— 1010 WINS (@1010WINS) June 5, 2024
This clever design encourages us to consider how our egos can sometimes block genuine connection, and how coming together fosters a more loving “we.” Love-Ego=LOV is set against the backdrop of contemporary social and ecological challenges, with the division of election campaigns ringing in the air.
The sculpture is accompanied by a miniature garden titled Three Sisters-Americas, featuring plants native to North, Central, and South America, representing the interconnectedness of the Americas. Throughout the summer, a series of performances will further explore themes of collaboration and community.
View this post on Instagram
“Creating Love-Ego=LOV has been a deeply personal exploration of unity in the lively tapestry of our urban NYC environment,” expresses Radetzki. “This project represents my journey as an artist and a first-generation American to find connection and collaboration in my new home.”
The project is supported by reState, a nonprofit dedicated to reimagining global governance, and additional sponsors such as the New York Foundation for the Arts, Radetzki studiO, and Art Yard LLC. The performance series received a Creative Engagement Grant from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council.
Love-Ego=LOV will be on display for six months at Union Square Park until November 5, 2024, inviting New Yorkers and visitors alike to engage with its message of love and unity. So, head down, strike a pose, and feel the L♥V.
[via PIX11, amNewYork, 1010 WINS, images via various sources]
