Peace Fountain by Greg Wyatt

Introduction / Overview

Nestled within the majestic grounds of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine in Morningside Heights, the Peace Fountain by Greg Wyatt stands as a profound artistic and spiritual landmark in New York City. Located at 1047 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10025, this monumental bronze sculpture is far more than just a decorative piece; it's a powerful statement on peace, the triumph of good over evil, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Created by acclaimed sculptor Greg Wyatt, the fountain captivates visitors with its intricate details and compelling narrative. It depicts a struggle between good and evil, with the Archangel Michael battling Satan, while a central tree of life symbolizes unity and renewal, surrounded by a myriad of diverse animals, both real and mythical, emerging from chaos into harmony. For New Yorkers, the Peace Fountain offers a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and find a moment of serenity amidst the urban hustle. As one visitor eloquently put it, "just the beauty of it and the concept of it, makes worth the visit." It invites contemplation on universal themes and provides a visually stunning experience. The fountain’s presence on the grounds of such a significant architectural and spiritual edifice as the Cathedral of St. John the Divine further elevates its importance, making it a compelling destination for those interested in art, spirituality, or simply seeking a meaningful encounter with public art in the city. Its symbolic depth and artistic grandeur make it a true treasure for locals and a must-see for anyone exploring the cultural richness of New York City.

Location and Accessibility

The Peace Fountain by Greg Wyatt is gracefully situated on the south side of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, located at 1047 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10025. This prime location in the vibrant Morningside Heights neighborhood makes it highly accessible for New Yorkers from across the city. Public transportation options are plentiful and convenient. The B and C subway lines have a station at 110th Street (Cathedral Parkway), which is just a short walk to the Cathedral grounds. Additionally, the 1 train stops at 110th Street, providing another direct route. Numerous bus lines also service the Amsterdam Avenue corridor, including the M4, M104, M11, and M60 (to LaGuardia Airport), with stops directly in front of or very close to the Cathedral entrance. This extensive network of subway and bus routes ensures that visitors from various boroughs can reach the Peace Fountain with relative ease, making it a viable option for a quick cultural outing or a dedicated visit to explore the Cathedral and its grounds. For those who enjoy walking, Morningside Heights itself is a highly walkable neighborhood, and integrating a visit to the Peace Fountain into a stroll through the area's historic streets and parks (like Morningside Park) is a pleasant experience. While parking in Manhattan can be challenging, the excellent public transit options mitigate this concern, emphasizing the suitability of this attraction for locals relying on the city's public transport system. Its prominent location within a significant landmark like the Cathedral further enhances its visibility and ease of discovery for anyone in the neighborhood.

Services Offered

• Public Viewing of Sculpture: The primary "service" offered by the Peace Fountain is its free and open public viewing. Visitors can approach the sculpture, walk around it, and admire its intricate details and symbolic elements at their leisure.
• Spiritual and Contemplative Space: Located on the grounds of a major cathedral, the fountain naturally provides a spiritual and contemplative environment, encouraging reflection on themes of peace, nature, and the human condition.
• Photography Opportunities: Its artistic beauty and unique design make it a popular spot for photography, allowing visitors to capture its essence and the surrounding architectural grandeur of the Cathedral.
• Educational Resource: The fountain serves as an educational resource for art appreciation, symbolism, and discussions on peace and ecological balance, particularly for students visiting the Cathedral or those interested in public art.
• Part of Cathedral Grounds Exploration: While not a separate paid attraction, a visit to the Peace Fountain is an integral part of exploring the wider Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine grounds, which include gardens, other sculptures, and the impressive Gothic architecture itself.
• Outdoor Seating (nearby): The Cathedral grounds often feature benches and open areas nearby, allowing visitors to sit and reflect on the fountain's message or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Features / Highlights

• Profound Symbolism: The Peace Fountain is rich with symbolism, depicting the triumph of good over evil (Archangel Michael and Satan), the tree of life, and a myriad of diverse creatures emerging from chaos. This deep meaning resonates strongly with visitors and encourages contemplation.
• Intricate Bronze Sculpture: Sculpted by Greg Wyatt, the fountain is a masterful work of bronze art, showcasing incredible detail in its figures, from mythical beasts to realistic animals, all intertwining in a dynamic composition.
• Unique Depiction of Peace: Unlike typical peace monuments, this fountain portrays peace not as an absence of conflict, but as a result of overcoming struggle and finding harmony amidst diversity, making its concept particularly compelling.
• Focal Point of Cathedral Grounds: It serves as a significant visual and conceptual focal point on the grounds of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, complementing the Cathedral's own spiritual and architectural grandeur.
• Water Feature: As a fountain, the presence of moving water adds a sensory element, contributing to its calming effect and enhancing its beauty. The sound of water can further aid in creating a serene atmosphere.
• Artistic and Philosophical Inspiration: As evidenced by one reviewer who was inspired to write a poem, the fountain has a profound impact on visitors, sparking creativity and philosophical thought about peace, humanity, and nature.
• Diverse Animal Representations: The inclusion of a wide array of animals, both real and fantastical, emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and adds to the visual richness and narrative depth of the sculpture.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a public art installation located on the grounds of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, the Peace Fountain by Greg Wyatt is freely accessible to all visitors. There are no direct "promotions" or "special offers" specifically for viewing the fountain, as it is a non-commercial attraction. Its primary "offer" is its free and open access to a significant piece of public art and a contemplative space. However, the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, which hosts the fountain, frequently offers a variety of programs and events that might indirectly enhance a visit to the Peace Fountain or provide additional enriching experiences. These can include:

• Cathedral Tours: The Cathedral often offers guided tours (some may be free, others may have a fee) that provide deeper insights into the Cathedral's history, architecture, and art, including its outdoor sculptures like the Peace Fountain.
• Concerts and Performances: The Cathedral is a renowned venue for concerts, choral performances, and other cultural events, some of which may be free or have special pricing. Checking their calendar could offer a complementary experience.
• Educational Programs: The Cathedral hosts various educational programs and workshops, some of which might touch upon the themes of peace, art, or environmental stewardship relevant to the fountain.
• Community Events: Occasionally, the Cathedral grounds are home to community festivals, fairs, or open days that may include free activities or special access.
• Membership Benefits: While not a direct promotion for the fountain, becoming a member or "Friend" of the Cathedral could offer benefits such as discounted access to ticketed events, special tours, or exclusive insights into the Cathedral's art and mission.

New Yorkers are encouraged to visit the official website of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine or call their general information line for the most up-to-date schedule of events, tours, and any public programs that might coincide with a visit to the Peace Fountain.

Contact Information

Address: 1047 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA

Phone: (212) 316-7540 (This is the general contact number for the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, on whose grounds the fountain is located.)

Mobile Phone: +1 212-316-7540 (This is the same contact number, confirming direct access to the Cathedral's general information line.)

For specific inquiries about the Peace Fountain or its artist, it's best to direct questions to the Cathedral's visitor services or communications department via the general phone number, or explore the Cathedral's official website which often provides extensive information on its art installations.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Yorkers, the Peace Fountain by Greg Wyatt is an exceptionally suitable local attraction, offering a unique blend of artistic beauty, profound symbolism, and a much-needed sense of tranquility right in the heart of the city. Its location on the sprawling and beautiful grounds of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine at 1047 Amsterdam Avenue makes it easily accessible via public transportation, allowing for spontaneous visits or planned outings without the hassle of long commutes. Unlike many of the city's high-energy attractions, the Peace Fountain provides a serene and contemplative space. This makes it an ideal spot for locals seeking a moment of peace, a quiet place to reflect, or simply a beautiful environment to de-stress from the demands of urban life. As echoed by a local visitor, "just the beauty of it and the concept of it, makes worth the visit." Its intricate bronze sculpture, depicting themes of harmony, struggle, and the triumph of good, offers a rich visual and intellectual experience that can be appreciated repeatedly. It’s a place that fosters creativity and introspection, as demonstrated by the heartfelt poem shared by another visitor. Moreover, its presence within the Morningside Heights neighborhood means it can be easily combined with other local activities, such as exploring the Cathedral itself, enjoying the nearby shops and cafes, or strolling through Morningside Park. The Peace Fountain isn't just a destination; it's a profound cultural asset that enriches the daily lives of New Yorkers, providing a constant invitation to engage with art, spirituality, and the enduring message of peace in a tangible, beautiful form.

Peace Fountain by Greg Wyatt

1047 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA