Free public fine art projects that entertain and enrich people’s lives in their communities can be seen in major cities across the United States. Downtown Chicago where I, Takeshi Yamada, lived for 13 years is one great example. Manhattan’s downtown and Central Park are other fine examples in New York City. (I am not talking about audio art. I am talking about site-specific sculptures, murals, monuments and installations) At the turn of the 20th century, Coney Island was on the cutting edge as the leader of public art projects (mostly free) on the grandest scale in America. At that time such projects were NOT mainly lead or funded by the government.  Unlike their counterparts today, public art projects were funded by commercial entrepreneurs and developers.  

The old Coney Island-Stillwell subway station—it’s renovation was completed in the spring of 2005. It was a huge task because this station comprises the last stop of four subway lines—F,Q,N and D.   Now finished, it is futuristic and modern-looking if not quite cutting edge. Site-specific, giant artworks shown here were installed inside the station on retail spaces the city plans to lease.  Sadly, the Coney Island’s economy (and unemployment rate) has been still not good and there are no commercial retail shops on this planned street level mall yet. (September 12, 2007)

When you arrive at the Coney Island-Stillwell subway station, giant murals painted on glass bricks immediately welcome you. This mural is of a roller coaster—a ride which originated here in Coney Island. This roller coaster--called “Loop the Loop”--was one of the most ambitious created in the world then. The basic design and appearance of roller coasters have not changed for over 100 years (September 8, 2007)

This portion of the mural features a girl on a merry-go-round and a hot dog which was also originated in Coney Island. (September 8, 2007)

One of the thrill rides at the old amusement park. (September 8, 2007)

Wonder Wheel (construction 1918—1920)

 (September 8, 2007)

Turtle Boy was displayed at sideshows here in Coney Island. People with physical deformities, who came to be known as freaks, were displayed on stage as stars of the sideshows. Traditional freaks include the Alligator Man, Penguin Woman, Seal Boy, Pinhead and Bearded Woman. Today, it is illegal to show people of “birth defects” and take viewing fees (commercial business) under New York State law unless they perform some kind of circus tricks as entertainers.  (September 8, 2007)

The Good old day’s bumper cars. The concept and design of bumper cars have not changed much over the last 100 years. (September 8, 2007)

Takeshi Yamada, Seara (the Sea Rabbit), and two partly dressed mermaids on the Coney Island Boardwalk. (September 2, 2007)

© Takeshi Yamada, 2007, Copyright all rights reserved.

Museum of World Wonders in Coney Island, NYC.  E-mail: yamada108@aol.com

http://www.sideshowworld.com/SSA-15.html

Special Thanks to Kris Roth (Senior Proofreader)