For the eighth consecutive year, Queens Crossing Mall brings downtown Flushing a holiday sculpture to energize the community and raise our collective spirits. The annual unveiling has become a renowned tradition for those that live and work in the area, and for many represents a kick-off to the holiday season. This year, Queens Crossing and Crossing Art have selected recognized Korean artist Hyong Nam Ahn to create a 3D mixed-media sculpture.
Ahn’s work, titled “Love in Harmony”, was inspired by the artist’s kinetic underpinnings and his prevailing desire to cast light on the importance of human relationships. Designed specifically for the Queens Crossing promenade, the work conveys to the viewer a message of hope, healing and harmony and moves onlookers to engage and bond with family and friends. The artist’s use of light illuminates the tower and also awakens our collective consciousness towards the need to give and spread warmth and cheer during the holiday season, and beyond.
The tower rises to 39 feet in height and is simply composed of plastic mesh, wooden structural elements and luminous LED lights which alternate colors every few minutes to give a festive effect. Ahn’s mesh construction is spray painted with his signature bright, scroll-like forms so that the sculpture resonates with movement and vibrancy during the day into the night.
On December 8th, the organizers invite everyone to take part in their annual lighting ceremony celebrating Ahn’s creation. The anticipating participants include Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, Congresswoman Grace Meng, New York State Senator Toby Stavisky, New York State Assemblyman Ron Kim, New York City Councilman Peter Koo and many more. There will also be a special live performance by Japanese group, JR. EXILE from PROJECT TARO. JR. EXILE came to New York in April 2014, dreaming to one day become a superstar. They are currently enrolled in “PROJECT TARO”, a special artist program in New York City dedicated to supporting and educating future world-class entertainers.Aside from their Jr.EXILE events and activities, they are taking intensive street dance classes at EXPG Dance & Vocal Studio located on 2nd Avenue.
Passerby’s and visitors are encouraged to take pictures with the installation and tag the photos on social media sites using the hashtag #QueensCrossing. By sharing “Love in Harmony” in this way, onlookers can become active participants in the work and propagate the artist’s heartfelt message:
Christmas in New York…
New York is considered the heart of the world by many, and desired as the greatest melting pot, but despite all of its attractions it can be the loneliest place during the holidays. May the torch of light tower that I created lead our minds to hope and eternal harmony for all people, regardless of race and culture, this holiday season in the City of New York.
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