The Global Angel Wings

For New Yorkers constantly on the lookout for unique photo opportunities and a dash of artistic flair in unexpected corners of the city, The Global Angel Wings mural offers a compelling stop. Located "under the bridge" at E 111th Street & Park Ave, this vibrant painted background provides a whimsical chance to "become a make-believe angel" and capture a memorable moment. It's an iconic piece of interactive street art that invites playful engagement, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors eager to add a touch of whimsy to their social media feeds.

The Global Angel Wings Project was initiated by artist Colette Miller in 2012, with the original wings painted in downtown Los Angeles. The idea behind the project is to remind humanity that we are angels on this Earth, and the wings are meant to inspire good deeds and spread positivity. Since its inception, wings have appeared in various locations worldwide, each mural a unique representation of the local environment and culture while carrying the universal message. The New York City installation at 111th Street is one of these global expressions, bringing a piece of this inspiring art to the vibrant streets of Harlem. It transforms an otherwise utilitarian urban underpass into a canvas for imagination and joy, offering a fleeting moment of artistic escape in the everyday hustle of the city.

While not a traditional "garden" in the botanical sense, this site functions as a vibrant public art installation, enriching the urban landscape and fostering interaction. It’s an open-air gallery, free for all to enjoy and experience. The artistic intent behind The Global Angel Wings project is to create interactive pieces that encourage people to engage directly with the art, becoming part of the narrative. This mural exemplifies that ethos perfectly, inviting passersby to pause, pose, and become a living part of the artwork. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and universal symbolism, offering a moment of levity and self-expression. As one visitor noted, it's a "fun painted background" that genuinely encourages people to "come and strike a pose." This makes it a delightful and accessible piece of public art that resonates with New Yorkers' appreciation for creative expression in unexpected places.

The Global Angel Wings mural is situated "under the bridge" at the intersection of E 111th Street & Park Ave, New York, NY 10029, USA. This specific address places it in East Harlem, a vibrant neighborhood known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic street art scene. The location under a railway overpass provides a unique urban backdrop for the artwork, contributing to its raw, authentic New York feel.

Accessibility to The Global Angel Wings is relatively straightforward for New Yorkers utilizing the city's extensive public transportation system. The nearest subway stations are a manageable walk away. The 6 train stops at 110 Street, which is approximately a 7-minute walk to the mural. The 2 and 3 trains also stop at 110 Street (Central Park North), which is a slightly longer walk but still feasible for those exploring the area. Multiple bus lines operate in the vicinity, including the M1, M2, M3, and M4, with stops along Park Avenue and E 110th Street, offering convenient access from various parts of Manhattan.

While the mural is easily accessible by public transit, it's important for visitors to be aware of the immediate surroundings, as street art installations are often located in diverse urban environments. The area directly under and around the bridge can sometimes reflect the general conditions of public urban spaces. There is no dedicated parking for the mural itself, as it is a street art installation, so public transportation is highly recommended. The mural is accessible 24/7, as it's an outdoor public art piece, allowing visitors to experience it at their leisure, though daylight hours are best for photography.

Services Offered:

• Interactive Public Art: The primary "service" offered is the opportunity to interact directly with a large-scale mural, becoming part of the artwork for a unique photo opportunity.

• Free Access: As a piece of street art, access to The Global Angel Wings is completely free, making it an accessible artistic experience for everyone.

• Photo Opportunity: Provides a distinct and popular backdrop for personal photos, social media content, and artistic expression.

• Cultural Engagement: Offers a chance to engage with a global art project right in a local New York City neighborhood, contributing to the cultural fabric of the area.

Features / Highlights:

• Iconic Angel Wings Mural: The main highlight is the beautifully painted set of angel wings, designed to align perfectly with a person standing in front of them.

• Unique Urban Setting: Located "under the bridge" (a railway overpass), providing a gritty, authentic New York urban backdrop for the art.

• Part of a Global Art Project: The mural is one installation of a worldwide series by artist Colette Miller, adding a significant layer of artistic and philosophical context.

• Accessibility: Easily reachable via public transportation (subway and bus), making it a convenient stop for those exploring East Harlem.

• Interactive Experience: Designed for active participation, encouraging visitors to pose and become part of the art, creating personal and shareable content.

Promotions or Special Offers:

As a public street art installation, The Global Angel Wings does not offer commercial promotions or special offers. Its inherent value lies in its free accessibility and artistic message. The "offer" is the unique, unmediated experience of engaging with public art. However, local businesses in the East Harlem area might occasionally leverage the mural's popularity through their own promotions, such as:

• Local Business Discounts: A nearby cafe or shop might offer a small discount if visitors show a photo taken with the wings. This would be a third-party promotion and not directly from the mural itself.

• Community Events: Local community organizations or art groups might organize free walking tours of Harlem street art, which would likely include a stop at The Global Angel Wings, offering an educational and guided experience for free or a nominal fee.

• Photography Contests: Occasionally, local tourism boards or art initiatives might run social media photography contests featuring local landmarks, including popular street art, offering prizes for the best photos. Participants would enter for free by submitting their images.

To discover any such indirect "offers" or community events related to the mural, New Yorkers are advised to check local East Harlem community websites, social media pages for local businesses, or art-focused walking tour companies operating in the area.

Contact Information:

Address: under the bridge, E 111th Street &, Park Ave, New York, NY 10029, USA

As The Global Angel Wings is a public street art mural and not a commercial establishment, there is no direct phone number or dedicated contact office for the art piece itself. The artist, Colette Miller, manages the broader Global Angel Wings Project. For general inquiries about the project or to learn more about the artist, you would typically refer to her official website or social media channels.

For any local concerns regarding the area around the mural (e.g., cleanliness, public safety), these would typically be directed to NYC's 311 service for general city services or the local community board (Community Board 11 for East Harlem). It is important to note that the mural is open access, and its maintenance falls under the purview of public works or local community initiatives that may have contributed to its installation and upkeep.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Yorkers, The Global Angel Wings on E 111th Street offers a unique and compelling reason to explore a vibrant corner of the city. Its suitability for locals lies in its accessibility, its role as a creative urban landmark, and the sheer joy it brings. In a city brimming with iconic sights, this mural provides an opportunity for personal, interactive engagement with art that is both free and constantly available. It encourages New Yorkers to step out of their usual routines, venture into a culturally rich neighborhood like East Harlem, and discover hidden gems.

While a few reviews mention the urban context of its location, the core appeal of the mural—its "fun painted background" and the chance to "strike a pose"—remains undiminished. It's a reminder that beauty and inspiration can be found in unexpected places, transforming an everyday underpass into a canvas for imagination. For those seeking authentic New York experiences beyond the usual tourist traps, or for anyone looking to add a playful, artistic touch to their day, The Global Angel Wings provides a quick, engaging, and memorable photo opportunity. It embodies the spirit of public art in NYC: accessible, vibrant, and always ready to make you smile.

The Global Angel Wings

under the bridge, E 111th Street &, Park Ave, New York, NY 10029, USA