Broadway Mall Association Design Installation

Since 1980, the Broadway Mall Association (BMA) has stewarded the planted medians along Broadway from 70th to 168th Streets — nearly five miles of connected green space on Manhattan’s west side.

Van Alen Institute and BMA are collaborating to select an emerging designer or artist to create a temporary public design installation, to be on view March 2027–January 2028. Located Mitchel Square in Washington Heights (the northern end of the Broadway malls), this installation will explore the theme of eco-mutualism, highlighting ecological interactions that address climate change, wellbeing, or equity. 

Successful applications should demonstrate an understanding of the neighborhood’s ecological, cultural, and historical context. Designers and artists with a connection to Washington Heights are especially encouraged to apply. (Part of a team, collaborative, studio, or firm? Only one person needs to respond, but your responses should reflect the availability, opinion, and work of the group.) 

 From this open call, three shortlisted designers/teams will be invited to submit a proposal. Van Alen will award shortlisted designers/teams $1,000 upon submission of their proposals. One winning proposal will be implemented. Van Alen will award the selected designer/team $8,000 as a fee for development and delivery of the project, and $25,000 for direct expenses for production, fabrication, and installation.

Learn more and apply to the Open Call: https://www.vanalen.org/project/bma-design-installation/