5Pointz is a 200,000 square foot warehouse/industrial complex in Long Island City (Queens), New York owned by Edgewood, NY developer David Wolkoff. About ten years ago, as the amount of street art being added to the outside walls was growing, Jonathan Cohen stepped in and asked Wolkoff if he could curate the space. At the time, Wolkoff admitted he was a fan of street art and Cohen took over managing the exterior of 5Pointz.
The name of the space is a nod to the five boroughs of NYC and their coming together at one spot to showcase great artists and writers. Cohen, who paints under the moniker of Meres One, has ensured over the last decade that the site showcases the best in aerosol art. Artists apply for time and space. If Meres is not familiar with their work they must provide samples. Works represent the global community of these artists.
As in so many situations, money talks and art gets kicked to the curb. Based on searches, early in 2011 Wolkoff and his development firm started making noises of wanting to raze the 5Pointz complex to make way for an apartment complex. At that time he felt that it would be a “matter of months” till the site was cleared and the new project would begin construction. It has taken more than just a few months but in those months the battle lines have been drawn. The most recent move occurred on 8/21/13 when the Planning Commission gave their approval to move forward with the demolition and redevelopment of the site. Now it moves to the City Council. There will be at least two public hearings. This is the last chance for people to be heard and convince the city to retain this landmark and for Meres One to continue to curate this great outdoor gallery.
[hr color=”light-grey” width=”100″ border_width=”50″ ]If you wish to help save this site you can join “Saving 5Pointz Aerosol Arts Center” on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Saving-5pointz-Aerosol-Art-Center/555293587824214
There you will find links to petitions. If you live in the area you can attend hearings and get
your voice heard on this important issue. We need to save the real art of this and future generations.
5Pointz on the web:
http://5ptz.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/5PointzNYC
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/HC5gYz_L9DYTo
— Kathy Creighton | @Mama_Kath
