Immigrant-Inspired Art Sculpture Comes to Times Square

A heart-shaped piece of art has made its debut in Times Square in anticipation of Valentine's Day.

The Times Square Alliance invited architecture and design firms to submit proposals for a "romantic public art installation" as part of the annual Valentine’s Day sculpture competition brief. 

This year's winning peice, which opened to the public on Tuesday, is titled "We Were Strangers Once Too." It was designed by The Office for Creative Research.

The red and pink heart, which is about 10 feet high, incorporates 2015 census data and the topic of immigration.

Thirty-three metal poles are inscribed to represent the national origins and shifting populations of foreign-born New York City residents.

The creaters of the peice seek to convey to a more humanitarian and inclusive idea of love.

"This sculpture is a love letter to immigrants, and we hope people see it as a symbol of the values our country should be moving toward, not away from" stated managing director, Kate Rath.

The installation will be on view until March 5.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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