Three new life-size sculptures have made new homes at New York City’s Pershing Square Plaza.
The sculptures, titled “Timing,” “Inner Dialogue,” and “Listen,” were created by city-based artist Jim Rennert and are installed as a part of the Department of Transportation’s Temporary Art Program. Presented by Cavalier Gallery, each sculpture stands over 6 feet tall and shows the daily struggles and achievements of everyday people.
“Taken together, these three concepts encapsulate the thoughts and feelings of anyone passing through the plaza, whether they’re late for an important meeting, contemplating their next big move, or just taking a break from it all,” said Rennert. “When a visitor sees these pieces, they may very well see them as a kindred spirit doing exactly what they are doing. While not everyone wears a suit, I feel the themes transcend to everyone.”
The three works embody three ideas key to the fast-paced life of Grand Central:
- “Timing”: a representation of a person looking anxiously at their watch, which relates to the various aspects of business life and the daily struggle between yourself and others. From being at the right place at the right time to having the right opportunity, the importance of timing is essential.
- “Inner Dialogue”: the small figure that stands in the palm of the hand of a larger life-size figure is metaphorically speaking to their own conscience, showcasing the familiar feeling of having a conversation with that small voice within.
- “Listen”: invites viewers to pause and reflect amidst the ever-changing and fast-paced world around them. Listening is an acquired skill, and if we take a moment to pause and listen to others, then real communication can begin.
“When Pershing Square Plaza West first opened to the general public in May 2019, we hoped it would regularly attract temporary art installations from world renowned artists,” said Fred Cerullo, President and CEO of Grand Central Partnership, Inc. “So, as the Grand Central neighborhood begins to come back to life after a tough year, we are really excited that the Plaza will play host to three dynamic, larger-than-life sculptures created by Jim Rennert.”
“Timing,” “Inner Dialogue,” and “Listen,” will be located at Pershing Square Plaza West across from Grand Central Terminal beginning April 15 through December 2021.