Ryan Van Der Hout unveils "To Reflect Everything," a monumental sculpture in Washington Square Park, the first public art installation in the park since 2017. This 7-foot mirrored sphere draws on the disco ball's history as a symbol of queer sanctuary and the satellite's promise of alternative futures, transforming the space into a site where multiple realities coexist. The work explores themes of reflection, community, and possibility, creating a meditative experience where park goers see themselves and the environment in new ways.
The installation will feature performances that expand on its themes:
January 26 @ 3 PM
Opening Event:
untitled (to orbit narcissus) by Gino Romero
"Muñoz describes Narcissus' story as revealing a new order, uniting man with god and man with nature." Drawing on this queer reading of the myth, This site-specific performance employs reflection and refraction as an invitation, using movement and mirrors to create a dialogue with To Reflect Everything. It fragments both performer and audience, exploring new ways of seeing and being.
About the Performer:
Gino Romero (b. 1997, Miami) is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice explores ritual, memory, and transformation. They are an ordained minister, archivist, educator, and consider growing up Queer and Trans in Latinx spaces as part of their education. Romero holds an MFA in Fine Arts from Parsons School of Design and a BA in Studio Art from Florida State University. www.ginoromero.com
To Reflect Everything is presented in partnership with NYC Parks Art & Antiquities Division and the Washington Square Park Conservancy. The project was developed with support from United Contemporary (Toronto), where Van Der Hout is represented. Programming partners include Future Fair, highlighting the connection between public art and contemporary art discourse. The project originated at the Toronto Sculpture Garden where it served as a primary site for Nuit Blanche 2023, with support from the City of Toronto.
