Josephine Meckseper stuck oil near Times Square today with her satirical art installation, The Manhattan Oil Project.
The two simulated oil pump sculptures stretch 25-feet tall against the backdrop of the busy Manhattan core. They are located on one of the only undeveloped plots of land in the neighborhood on the southeast corner of 46th Street and Eighth Avenue.
Having the two pumps drilling away in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the island is the artist's attempt at a reminder of where the energy to power the island, and the world, comes from.
Until May 6, the rigs will motor away for a four-hour stretch, twice a day, during the week and for eight continuous hours on weekends. While they will not actually be pumping or drilling any oil, they will operate as though doing so.
Meckseper's projects are often a commentary on environmental and cultural issues. The Manhattan Oil Project may not be generating any new energy, and will most likely be lost in the background noise to most scurrying commuters, but it is an interesting parody of the way we live, and how we get the fuel to do so.
Artistic Fuel Sources
The Manhattan Oil Project Juxtaposes Drilling Against the Busy City Core
Trend Themes
1. Satirical Art Installations - Opportunity for artists to use satire to make thought-provoking statements and challenge societal norms.
2. Environmental Commentary - Space for artists to highlight environmental concerns and spark conversations about sustainability.
3. Urban Disruption - Potential for disruptive art installations to create unexpected and thought-provoking experiences in busy urban environments.
Industry Implications
1. Art - Artists can utilize satire and commentary to push boundaries and provoke discussions in the art world.
2. Energy - Opportunity for energy industry professionals to explore innovative and sustainable fuel sources and raise awareness about energy production.
3. Tourism - Art installations like The Manhattan Oil Project can attract visitors and contribute to the tourism industry of urban areas.