This fall, Shantell Martin encourages New Yorkers to pause and find a meditative moment in Times Square with The Path: A Meditation of Lines, the artist’s first-ever walking path painted onto the Broadway plaza between 47th and 48th Streets. Designed to transform one of the city’s busiest places into a space for contemplation, the 160-ft long mural will be accompanied by guided meditations, performances, and DJ sets.
Featuring Martin’s signature black-and-white drawings that playfully explore themes of intersectionality and self-discovery, The Path: A Meditation of Lines is a sprawling walking maze that invites viewers to navigate its intricate lines. As one follows the twisting, turning path north, the words "You are in the right place at the right time" appear along with other phrases that signify the forward motion of a journey, whether physical or metaphorical, that might be possible through contemplation and inward reflection.
"Walking, much like drawing, can empower you and move you forward — both metaphorically and physically. Putting one foot in front of the other is a simple yet powerful act, and I hope that this message and activity can be translated through this project with Times Square." — Shantell Martin.
On view and accessible to the public 24/7, The Path: A Meditation of Lines will be accompanied by an audio guide voiced by Martin; free, in-person facilitated meditations; musical performances; and dedicated walking sessions for Times Square’s local communities, from office workers, theater staff, and sanitation workers to seniors and students.
