NYC Marks 10th Year Anniversary of 9/11: Bryant Park's 2,753 Empty Chairs And "Collective Memory"

At the Bryant Park Lawn, 2,753 empty chairs are set up from September 9 through 11 in remembrance of the 2,753 lives lost as a result of the September 11, 2001 World Trade Center attacks. The chairs face the site where the Twin Towers once stood. At the Upper Terrace of the park, visitors can type their responses to the question, "What would you like the world to remember about 9/11?" An old-fashioned Royal typewriter is available, and typists are present at certain times to assist visitors. This interactive public art project called "Collective Memory" is conceived by Sheryl Oring. The Bryant Park installation is one of many memorials that have been taking place in the city to remember 9/11. Bryant Park is located behind the New York Public Library in midtown Manhattan, between 40th and 42nd Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues. 


The World Trade Center 9/11 Memorial at the World Trade Center site will be open to the public beginning September 12. Online reservations are required.

Parsons Festival: "Take A Seat"

Sheila C. Johnson Design Center 

One of many ongoing events during the PARSONS FESTIVAL is an exhibit of seating protoypes called "Take A Seat." The seating protoypes are created by sophomore product design students of the School of Constructed Environments. The designs incorporate plywood components and a structural frame. The display shows the outcome of a 10-week design build up project exploring the intersection between ergonomics, sound construction techniques and finish. The exhibit is open to the public through May 23 at the Sheila C. Johnson Design Center Lobby located at 2 West 13th Street.

Parsons Festival is a two week festival presented by the Parsons The New School for Design featuring thesis exhibitions and critiques, thought-provoking public programs, interactive installations, gallery openings, workshops and special events.