Jen Lewin's 'The Ursas' Finds a Permanent Home on the Gowanus Canal
Jen Lewin's monumental 'The Ursas' sculptures have transitioned from the temporary environment of Burning Man to a permanent installation on Brooklyn's revitalized Gowanus waterfront. These significant artworks now serve as a focal point in a newly accessible section of the canal, demonstrating a rare longevity for public art.
Installed at Nevins Landing, these paired sculptures command attention between residential towers and the canal, as part of the broader Gowanus Wharf campus. This initiative, which includes residential units and public waterfront access, is transforming former industrial areas into vibrant community spaces, with Lewin's art contributing significantly to the neighborhood's evolving identity.
The Ursas: Art, Navigation, and Environmental Reflection
Jen Lewin's 'The Ursas,' inspired by the Ursa Major and Ursa Minor constellations, are more than just visually striking; they are a profound exploration of navigation, orientation, and humanity's relationship with the environment. The larger sculpture, Ursa Major, stands an impressive 30 feet tall and is crafted from reclaimed ocean plastic, a material choice that directly links to Lewin's earlier work, 'The Last Ocean.' This deliberate use of recycled materials highlights the urgent issue of plastic pollution in our oceans. Inside Ursa Major, visitors encounter an infinity-mirrored chamber adorned with hand-drawn illustrations of species that have been declared extinct or are presumed to be extinct, as documented by the IUCN Red List. This interior space creates a contemplative experience, inviting viewers to reflect on the irreversible losses occurring in the natural world. Adjacent to this towering piece is Ursa Minor, a 13-foot-tall sculpture clad in infinity mirrors and equipped with programmable LED lighting. This creates an ever-changing display of light and reflection, symbolizing the dynamic and interconnectedness of our world, while also serving as a metaphorical beacon.
Lewin views Ursa Minor as a 'beacon' guiding towards the North Star, while Ursa Major commemorates recently extinct species. She explains that together, the sculptures embody a dual reality: 'grief and responsibility, but also direction.' They challenge us not only to contemplate our impact but also to consider our future actions. This installation marks a significant moment for Gowanus, integrating public art into broader neighborhood redevelopment. 'The Ursas' is among the first permanent artworks to define the identity of the four-building Gowanus Wharf campus, which will eventually feature over 2,200 residential units and publicly accessible waterfront space. The journey of these sculptures from a temporary desert installation in 2023 to a permanent fixture in Brooklyn underscores their profound message and artistic impact, making them a integral part of the city's daily landscape.
From Ephemeral Desert to Urban Landmark
The journey of Jen Lewin's 'The Ursas' from a fleeting exhibit in the Nevada desert to a permanent fixture on the Brooklyn waterfront is a remarkable testament to the enduring power and adaptability of public art. What began as an installation for Burning Man in 2023, designed to engage with a temporary community in an ephemeral landscape, has now been reimagined and recontextualized within the urban fabric of New York City. This transition involved a complex and dramatic logistical feat, including transporting the colossal sculptures across the iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. Upon arrival in Brooklyn, the artworks underwent a meticulous installation process, being hoisted with precision over the Union Street Bridge and carefully lowered into their designated positions along the Gowanus Canal. This intricate operation highlights the dedication and vision required to bring such large-scale art to a public setting, transforming a temporary display into a lasting landmark.
The installation of 'The Ursas' signifies a pivotal moment for the Gowanus neighborhood. Historically an industrial area, Gowanus is undergoing a significant transformation, with a focus on urban renewal and the integration of public spaces. The arrival of these sculptures is not merely an aesthetic addition but a strategic element in defining the new identity of the Gowanus Wharf campus. This multi-building development aims to introduce thousands of residential units alongside expanded public access to the waterfront. By anchoring this revitalization with a prominent and thought-provoking artwork, 'The Ursas' helps to foster a sense of community and cultural engagement. It serves as a symbol of the neighborhood's evolution, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the urban experience through art and thoughtful design. This permanent placement allows the sculptures to continually engage with a diverse audience, contributing to the daily lives of residents and visitors alike, and solidifying their status as a significant urban landmark.