Flags at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center in NYC invited artists to design 8 foot flags to be flown in temporary art installations on the 193 poles surrounding the iconic Rink. My designs were selected twice - in 2020 and 2022.
2020: In the beginning of quarantine, Rockefeller Center invited artists from across the globe to show their love for New York by designing flags that honor NYC’s resiliency and showcases New Yorkers' love for their city amid the pandemic. Their aim was for the community to dream up new ways to celebrate the diverse culture, vibrant energy, and strength of New York City.
The Flag Project helped us usher in a new era of togetherness and human connection amidst a difficult time. Rockefeller Center is proud to fly these beautiful works of art for all to see, in the heart of New York.
Being kicked out of my NYU dorm and moving back to my hometown in New Jersey due to COVID-19 was heartbreaking. I have lived in the most diverse, creative, and loving place in the universe - New York. The view I miss most is the daily sunrise on the train on my way to school in Brooklyn. This is why I decided to make it my flag, to remind myself that I’ll be home in Brooklyn soon.
2022: Rockefeller Center collaborated with the United Nations Environment Programme and the Climate Museum in New York to focus on what really matters — Only One Earth — and selected artists to feature on the flags surrounding the rink, using eco-friendly flags made with Bio-Line Biodegradable Fabric. The prompt for the artists was to express their appreciation for the environment, how they live sustainably and in harmony with nature, and the daily steps they take towards positive climate action.
Regardless of age, culture, or gender, humans find nature restorative. For me, I gravitate towards the sea, which is what I chose to design. Sitting on the sand watching the sun rise and shimmer onto the clear, blue water, reminds me to breathe for a moment and appreciate our beautiful Earth. I’ve grown up doing beach cleanups, upcycling materials, and caring for creatures that we share the beach with. By caring for our ecosystems, we help preserve natural resources for future generations, but also improve our quality of life. Simple tasks go a long way when taking action towards climate, so I try my best to only use sustainable products, shop from local farmers’ markets, and educate others on upcycling, energy usage, and sustainable buildings & features.