Reach NY

5.22.22- Playing REACH. After over 30 years, the installation is still running 24/7!

reach

REACH: New York
1995
34th Street Subway Station (N & R Line) New York City, NY

Since 1995, REACH has engaged New York City subway riders to connect with their urban environment in an unusual and musical way. As waiting pedestrians reach up and wave their hands in front of one of the eight “eyes,” a beam of light is interrupted. This activates REACH, which emits a range of sounds—from melodic instruments (marimba, flute) to environmental “sound images” (Everglades, rain forest). The piece is installed on both the uptown and downtown platforms of the 34th Street N/R subway station in New York City. Riders often play REACH with other passengers across the tracks.

Dear Christopher,

One of the most special things in New York City is your installation on 34th street at the N, R trains. It is so magical and special I can’t even tell you! Last year I showed my kids what happens when my hand went over the opening of that metal beam over their heads and they were so excited and amazed, how unique!
Kindest regards,
Dorothy Griffin
NYC


Hello!
REACH is one of my favorite pieces of public art and has brought a lot of joy to me (and my son) over the years! Thank you.

Jeremy R.


 

I wanted to say how much joy the installation at 34th Street Harold Square in NYC has brought both me and my 3 year old son over the past few years. When I first saw it YEARS ago, before the birth of my son, I immediately felt joy & also connection with fellow NYer’s, who I could interact with through your work.

Anne C.


 

 

Project credits:

William Lauder, Mark O’Berski, Project Manager/Jamie Cocclutto

Project sponsors:

Apple Computer, Belden Wire and Cable Company, BOSE Corporation, Mystic Scenic Studios, Inc., Rockwell Automation/Allen-Bradley Photoswitch, The Center for Advanced Visual Studies, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, The Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture of The Cooper Union, New York