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MetroCards: What <em>Can't</em> They Do?
By
Jen Carlson
Published Mar 30, 2011
Modified Mar 30, 2011
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By
Jen Carlson
Published Mar 30, 2011
Modified Mar 30, 2011
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Don't you just love it when the MetroCard becomes not only functional but deep. Steve Shaheen recently created this bench using 5,000 MetroCards—he calls it Metrobench. Shaheen says: “I was inspired to use these discarded objects—at once very personal and expendable—in a way that reflects the manner in which mass transit joins many diverse lives into a single moment or path together. Millions of New Yorkers, with their separate lives, are brought together on the transit system every day. In this sculptural seat, each card, with its distinct and intimate history is stitched together into a fluid tapestry."
He got the cards by using Craigslist, and by one weeks time had all 5,000 he needed. He says, "There is something very personal about handling so many small belongings that were once riding around in peoples’ pockets. There are untold personal stories in that inconspicuous, flimsy plastic.” Just start hoarding MetroCards and with a little creativity, you may be able to offset that fare hike! [via Curbed]
Tagged
bench
design
furniture
Metrobench
metrocard
Steve Shaheen
Jen Carlson
Jen Carlson is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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