Keys to cities are traditionally given by a mayor to a hero or dignitary, symbolizing that they can have free entrance to the city.

Paul Ramirez Jonas and Creative TIme in cooperation with the City of New York present a citywide public art project that allows every New Yorker and visitor to open spaces in all five boroughs.  Thousands of New Yorkers will be awarded with a Key to the City that belongs to each and everyone of us. “Instead of being acknowledged for landing a plane in a river, we are awarded the key for perfect attendance in school. Instead of receiving an honor for winning the World Series, we receive the key because of the kindness we showed at the hospital. And with this new key, we gain an opportunity to step back and reflect on common space in the city. For not only does the key open up specific sites, but it can also make us aware that the city is a series of spaces that are locked or unlocked.”

Watch Paul Ramirez Jonas and Claire Bishop exchange keys to the city:

We are so excited about this project because it’s a fun adventure that enables you to take the time to explore the city.  As you wait in line, you will receive a guidebook with information about each site the key opens. Who wouldn’t want to have a key to a lamp post in Bryant Park or to the tortilleria, Nixtamal in Corona, Queens?

If you’re in the New York area, take a trip to Times Square before June 27th and get your key!
Our Studio Manager, Katharine got a key to the city and we’ll be documenting her adventure on the blog!  So keep checking back!