Stonefield Landscape Sculpture

In the dynamic and often bustling landscape of New York City, discovering pockets of tranquility and natural beauty is a true delight. The Stonefield Landscape Sculpture, nestled within the expansive Hudson River Park near 63 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011, USA, offers exactly this kind of respite. It's more than just a public art installation; it's a carefully curated environment designed to provide a serene and reflective experience amidst the urban energy. For New Yorkers seeking a moment of calm, a unique setting for contemplation, or simply a beautiful spot to enjoy the outdoors, Stonefield is a truly special find.

Created by acclaimed American artist Meg Webster in 2010, Stonefield is a permanent landscape sculpture that seamlessly integrates natural elements with artistic vision. The installation features a collection of large, uniquely shaped stones, handpicked by the artist from quarries in New York State and northeast Pennsylvania. These stones are meticulously arranged within a lush native garden, creating a harmonious blend of geology and botany. As one visitor beautifully described it, it's "Lovely, plenty of green with a Hudson view." This inviting and secluded spot, set amongst graceful weeping willows and surrounded by native perennial beds, offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and art simultaneously, all while enjoying stunning views of the Hudson River and the city skyline.

The Stonefield Landscape Sculpture is a captivating feature within Hudson River Park, located specifically near Pier 63 and Pier 64, with its address often associated with 63 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011, USA. This places it firmly in the heart of Chelsea, a vibrant neighborhood renowned for its art galleries, cultural attractions, and dynamic waterfront. The sculpture is situated just south of Pier 64 and north of Chelsea Piers, making it easily identifiable within the vast expanse of Hudson River Park.

Its location within Hudson River Park means it benefits from being along the Hudson River Greenway, a continuous, car-free path that runs the entire length of Manhattan's west side. This makes Stonefield incredibly accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and runners. You can easily stroll or bike along the Greenway and stumble upon this hidden gem.

Accessibility by public transportation is also excellent, a key factor for New Yorkers. The area around Chelsea Piers is well-served by several subway lines. The nearest subway stations, generally within a 10-15 minute walk, include:

• C and E lines at 23rd Street and 8th Avenue
• 1 line at 23rd Street and 7th Avenue
• A, C, E lines at 14th Street and 8th Avenue

Numerous cross-town bus routes (like the M23) also provide convenient access to the piers and the waterfront. This extensive public transit network ensures that New Yorkers from any borough can easily reach Stonefield. Whether you're coming from the Upper East Side for a quiet morning, Brooklyn for a leisurely afternoon, or downtown after work, getting to this tranquil spot along the Hudson is straightforward and allows for a truly immersive escape from the urban rush. The pedestrian-friendly nature of Hudson River Park means that once you're on the Greenway, navigating to Stonefield is a pleasant and scenic walk.

As a public art installation within Hudson River Park, Stonefield Landscape Sculpture itself doesn't offer "services" in the traditional commercial sense. However, its location within the larger park system means visitors benefit from a wide array of public services and amenities provided by the Hudson River Park Trust and NYC Parks.

• Public Access: The sculpture and its surrounding garden are freely accessible to the public during park hours.
• Seating: Benches and the large, climbable stones themselves offer natural seating for relaxation and contemplation.
• Walking Paths: Integrated into the broader Hudson River Greenway, providing smooth, paved paths for leisurely strolls around the sculpture.
• Green Spaces: The native garden surrounding Stonefield offers lush greenery and a tranquil natural setting.
• Hudson River Views: Unobstructed views of the Hudson River, the New Jersey Palisades, and stunning sunsets are a key feature.
• Nearby Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at various points within Hudson River Park, often at nearby piers (e.g., Pier 57 or Chelsea Piers).
• Water Fountains: Located at intervals along the Hudson River Greenway.
• Bike Racks/Citi Bike Stations: Convenient for cyclists, with Citi Bike docks often found near major park entrances and piers.
• Dog-Friendly Areas: While dogs are usually on leash around the sculpture, numerous dog runs are available in Hudson River Park nearby.
• Informational Signage: Provides details about the artwork and the artist, Meg Webster, offering context for visitors.
• Photography Opportunities: The unique aesthetics and scenic backdrop make it a popular spot for photographers.
• Yoga/Meditation Space: Its secluded and tranquil nature makes it ideal for quiet activities like gentle yoga or meditation.

The Stonefield Landscape Sculpture is a compelling destination due to its unique artistic vision and its harmonious integration with the natural and urban environment. It offers several distinct features and highlights that make it memorable for visitors.

• Site-Specific Land Art by Meg Webster: This is a permanent public artwork created by renowned American artist Meg Webster, known for her work with natural elements. The sculpture is designed to be deeply connected to its specific location within Hudson River Park.
• Unique Stone Collection: The central elements of Stonefield are 38 large, handpicked stones from quarries in New York State and Pennsylvania. Each stone is unique in its shape, color, and sculptural qualities, showcasing its individual "being-ness," as described by the artist.
• Native Garden Setting: The stones are set within a beautifully landscaped native perennial garden, featuring plants like goatsbeard, Joe-Pye weed, and blazing star. This lush greenery enhances the tranquil atmosphere and provides a habitat for local wildlife.
• Panoramic Hudson River Views: Strategically positioned, Stonefield offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Hudson River, the New Jersey Palisades, and the ever-changing Manhattan skyline. It's particularly lauded as a prime spot for watching sunsets.
• Interactive and Tactile Experience: Unlike many sculptures, visitors are encouraged to interact with the stones, including a large flat stone that often serves as an impromptu stage for musicians or a climbing spot for children and adults. This tactile engagement deepens the connection to the artwork.
• Secluded Respite: Despite its central location near bustling Chelsea Piers, Stonefield is described as an "inviting and secluded" or "hidden spot" that offers a genuine sense of quiet and respite, a rarity in New York City.
• Integration with Hudson River Park: It is seamlessly integrated into the larger Hudson River Park system, allowing visitors to combine a visit to the sculpture with walks, runs, or bike rides along the Greenway and access to other park amenities.
• Photogenic Location: The combination of unique sculptural elements, lush greenery, and stunning water/skyline views makes Stonefield an incredibly photogenic spot for amateur and professional photographers alike.
• Zen-like Ambiance: Reviewers often describe the garden as having a "serene Zen garden" feel, perfect for meditation, quiet reflection, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment away from the city's hustle.

As a permanent public art installation located within Hudson River Park, the Stonefield Landscape Sculpture itself is free and open to the public year-round during park hours. There are no commercial "promotions" or "special offers" directly associated with the sculpture itself, as its primary purpose is public enjoyment and cultural enrichment.

However, because it is an integral part of Hudson River Park, visitors to Stonefield can indirectly benefit from and participate in the numerous free or low-cost programs and activities that the Hudson River Park Trust offers throughout the year. These often include:

• Free Fitness Classes: During warmer months, Hudson River Park frequently hosts complimentary outdoor yoga, Pilates, and other fitness classes in various locations, some of which may be near Stonefield.
• Free Kayaking: Several piers in Hudson River Park (e.g., Pier 26, Pier 84) offer free kayaking sessions during the summer season, a fantastic way to experience the Hudson River.
• Public Art Tours: Occasionally, the Hudson River Park Trust or other art organizations might offer free guided tours focusing on the public art installations within the park, which would likely include Stonefield.
• Seasonal Events and Festivals: The park hosts a wide array of free public events, concerts, and educational programs throughout the year, especially from spring through fall. Checking the Hudson River Park Trust's event calendar is the best way to discover these opportunities.
• Volunteer Opportunities: While not a promotion, participating in park clean-up or gardening days offers a free way to engage with the park, meet fellow New Yorkers, and contribute to the beauty of spaces like Stonefield.

To stay informed about free events and activities in Hudson River Park that you can enjoy before or after visiting Stonefield, it’s best to regularly check the official website of the Hudson River Park Trust (hudsonriverpark.org).

Since Stonefield Landscape Sculpture is a public art installation within Hudson River Park, there isn't a direct phone number or specific contact for the sculpture itself. However, you can direct inquiries to the organization that manages the park where it is located.

Name: Stonefield Landscape Sculpture

General Location Address: Near 63 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011, USA (It is specifically located just south of Pier 64, near Pier 63 within Hudson River Park.)

Primary Managing Entity: Hudson River Park Trust

For general inquiries about Hudson River Park, its amenities, events, or public art, you can typically find contact information (phone numbers, email addresses, and general inquiry forms) on their official website:

Website: hudsonriverpark.org

On their website, navigate to sections like "Contact Us" or "About the Park" to find relevant contact details. While there isn't a dedicated line for the sculpture, the Hudson River Park Trust is the best resource for any questions related to the park and its various features.

For New Yorkers, the Stonefield Landscape Sculpture offers a truly unique and highly suitable urban escape, providing a blend of natural beauty, artistic contemplation, and serene respite that is invaluable in our fast-paced city. It's more than just a spot on the map; it's a destination for rejuvenation and appreciation.

Firstly, its prime location within Hudson River Park in Chelsea makes it incredibly accessible from across the city. Whether you're commuting, exercising along the Hudson River Greenway, or simply exploring the neighborhood, finding Stonefield is a pleasant detour. This ease of access means New Yorkers can easily incorporate a visit into their daily routines for a quick dose of nature and art without a major time commitment.

Secondly, the sculpture's design, with its unique handpicked stones nestled within a lush native garden, provides a genuine sense of tranquility that can be hard to find elsewhere. As one local noted, it offers "plenty of green with a Hudson view," creating a peaceful oasis perfect for quiet reflection, meditation, or simply escaping the urban buzz for a moment. It serves as an impromptu outdoor gallery and a natural playground, appealing to both adults seeking serenity and children looking for engaging, climbable art.

Finally, Stonefield enhances the already exceptional Hudson River Park experience for locals. It's a free, open-access public artwork that enriches the cultural landscape of our city. For New Yorkers looking for a meaningful place to unwind, appreciate art in an outdoor setting, or simply enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Hudson, Stonefield Landscape Sculpture stands out as a truly special and invaluable urban gem.

Stonefield Landscape Sculpture

63 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011, USA