Art Takes Times Square

Will Graham's art to be displayed on the iconic LED screens of Times Square.  For 17 years, arts group chashama has created pop-up galleries in office buildings and empty warehouses. But beginning Monday June 18, the nonprofit joins forces with Artists Wanted (artistswanted.org), turning more than a dozen Times Square billboards into digital canvases.  “What better and more amazing place to do that than in the middle of Times Square?”

The square’s transformation into a massive arts space kicks off when chashama founder Anita Durst rings the closing bell of the NASDAQ at 4pm. The work of Will Graham, and other artists from around the world will be unveiled at 7pm. Performances in the plaza by band Twin Shadow, stilt walkers and other artists will further the organization’s mission to foster art in surprising and unusual places. A gala and after-party follow.

Organizers expect the project to attract attention from jaded New Yorkers as well as tourists. “We hope that we’ll be able to add something to the experience of Times Square that people can take away from their New York City visit,” says Schnaubert. Times Square, Broadway between 42nd and 47th Sts (chashama.org). Mon 18 at 4pm; free. • chashama Gala After-Party!, 132 W 43rd St between Broadway and Sixth Ave. Mon 18 at 9:30pm; $35.