World Cup Art Spectacle: Sculptural Soccer Balls by Renowned Artists Adorn New York and New Jersey

A remarkable public art endeavor, “Art of the Game,” has transformed various locations across New York and New Jersey with an array of visually striking soccer ball sculptures. This initiative, inspired by the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, showcases the creative talents of 23 contemporary artists, uniting the worlds of elite sports and fine art. The project owes its existence to the late visionary art collector and philanthropist Agnes Gund, whose dedication and influence were instrumental in its realization. These monumental artworks are set to captivate audiences throughout the summer and potentially beyond, offering a vibrant cultural experience alongside the excitement of global football.

Celebration of Sport and Art: The "Art of the Game" Unveils in New York and New Jersey

In June 2026, a groundbreaking public art installation titled "Art of the Game" was unveiled across prominent locations in New York and New Jersey. This initiative, spearheaded by the late art luminary Agnes Gund, in collaboration with ARTS 14C and the NYNJ Host Committee, brings together 23 distinguished contemporary artists to create large-scale soccer ball sculptures. These artistic renditions celebrate the 23rd FIFA World Cup, scheduled to be hosted in North America. The sculptures, fabricated at Powerhouse Arts in Brooklyn and assembled at Mana Contemporary in Jersey City, are strategically placed in parks, plazas, and public venues throughout the region, including Journal Square Plaza in Jersey City, Rockefeller Plaza in Manhattan, Grand Central Pershing Square, MetLife Stadium, Gansevoort Landing, Exchange Place, Hudson Yards, the Brooklyn Museum, Paseo Park, Columbus Circle, and SIUH Community Park. Renowned artists such as Futura 2000, Katherine Bernhardt, Hank Willis Thomas, Fred Wilson, Tomokazu Matsuyama, Edgar Heap of Birds, Taína H. Cruz, Wyatt Kahn, Mario Ayala, Bony Ramirez, Leo Castaneda, Bassim al Shaker, and Matthew Day Jackson have contributed their unique perspectives to this project. A select group of five sculptures will also be featured in an online auction at Christie's from July 2 to 17, with proceeds benefiting the artists, ARTS 14C, and Studio in a School, a nonprofit established by Gund in 1977. The genesis of this project traces back to a fortuitous meeting between Robinson Holloway, founder and CEO of ARTS 14C, and Alex Lasry, CEO of the host committee, leading to an idea championed by Diana Burroughs, executive director of ARTS 14C’s residency program, and enthusiastically supported by Agnes Gund. Gund’s extensive network and persuasive abilities were crucial in enlisting top curators from institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, the Whitney Museum, and the Brooklyn Museum to nominate artists, ensuring a high caliber of artistic participation.

This innovative public art initiative serves as a powerful testament to the unifying potential of both art and sport. By integrating contemporary artistic expressions into the urban fabric surrounding a major global sporting event, the "Art of the Game" not only enhances the cultural landscape of New York and New Jersey but also makes art accessible to a broader audience. The project highlights the enduring legacy of Agnes Gund, whose commitment to fostering artistic talent and bridging diverse communities continues to resonate. It also underscores the importance of collaboration between cultural institutions and public entities in creating memorable and impactful experiences for residents and visitors alike, reminding us that creativity can flourish in unexpected spaces and contexts.