When you have a day to spare in New York City, ditching the museums for a stroll through vibrant street art can be a refreshing change.
Having developed a keen interest in street art since my London tour, I decided to explore Bushwick, Brooklyn, known for its dynamic art scene.
Discovering Bushwick:
Bushwick, once a middle-class area known for breweries, faced economic decline post-World War II. However, it’s now experiencing a revival. As Williamsburg’s popularity soared, artists migrated deeper into Bushwick, bringing with them a wave of creativity. Today, it’s a hub for hipsters, filled with trendy bars, coffee shops, and captivating street art.
The Bushwick Collective:
A highlight of my visit was the Bushwick Collective, a curated outdoor gallery where artists are invited to showcase their work legally. Led by Joseph Ficalora, who turned personal tragedy into a community art project, the Collective has transformed industrial spaces into colorful canvases. Murals here change frequently, offering a dynamic experience with each visit.
Types of Street Art in Bushwick
In Bushwick, you’ll encounter a variety of street art forms:
- Throwers: Quick tags often found illegally.
- Murals: Large-scale artworks, the mainstay of the Bushwick Collective.
- Stencil and Paste-up: Artistic techniques ranging from Banksy-style stencils to paper paste-ups.
- Installation: 3D sculptures that add depth to public spaces.
Best Times to Visit
While the art is accessible day or night, visiting on weekdays offers a more relaxed experience compared to bustling weekends. Early June is particularly vibrant, leading up to the annual Bushwick Collective Block Party, a celebration of art, music, and community.
Planning Your Visit
When exploring Bushwick, remember to respect the neighborhood and its residents. Although it’s gaining popularity among tourists, Bushwick remains a vibrant community where art plays a central role in revitalization.
