Booker cuts, twists and weaves discarded rubber tyres into forms that read as bark, feathers or scar tissue depending on the light, and outdoors on the East River they change hour by hour. Socrates is free, open every single day until sunset, and faces the Manhattan skyline across the water. If you want art you can walk around at your own speed with no ticket, this is the weekend's easiest yes.
What to expect
A large outdoor sculpture in black rubber standing on open lawn, with the river, the Roosevelt Island tramway and the skyline behind it. Three other Homecoming installations and the fellowship anniversary presentation share the park. Most visitors do the entire park in under an hour.
Good to know
- Take the N or W to Broadway in Astoria, then walk west toward Vernon Boulevard
- The park is free every day of the week and closes at sunset
- The rubber surfaces read best in strong side light, so late afternoon is worth timing for
- Gravel and grass underfoot; step-free but not smooth for wheels
- Dogs, kids and picnics are all fine here
- Ten minutes' walk from The Noguchi Museum if you want to pair indoor and outdoor sculpture
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Common questions
What is the sculpture made of?
Chakaia Booker works with cut and woven discarded rubber tyres.
Is the park free?
Yes, free every day of the week until sunset.
Can I combine it with another visit?
The Noguchi Museum is about ten minutes' walk down Vernon Boulevard.
More this weekend
