New York City’s Grand Central Station is set to welcome a new addition to its vibrant public art collection. In May 2025, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will unveil Abstract Futures, a 600-square-foot glass mosaic mural inspired by the pioneering abstract artist Hilma af Klint. This installation, created by the feminist artist collective Hilma’s Ghost, marks a significant moment in the MTA’s ongoing efforts to integrate art into the city’s transit spaces.
A Tribute to a Visionary Artist
Hilma af Klint, a Swedish painter active in the early 20th century, is celebrated for her groundbreaking abstract works that predate many of her male contemporaries. Her art, deeply influenced by spiritualism and esoteric beliefs, explores themes of the metaphysical and the unseen. Abstract Futures draws upon af Klint’s use of colour and symbolism, reimagining her visionary style through a contemporary lens.
The Artistic Process
The mural’s design features a progression of colour palettes guiding viewers through a collection of archetypal symbols—from active reds and oranges to grounded greens and browns, culminating in transcendent purples and blues. This chromatic journey reflects the shared experiences of commuters, inviting them into a dynamic, contemporary experience that supports the station’s rehabilitation. To bring this vision to life, Hilma’s Ghost collaborated with renowned mosaic fabricator Stephen Miotto of Miotto Mosaic Art Studios. The installation process involved meticulous planning and craftsmanship, ensuring that the final piece resonates with the energy and movement of the station.
Integration into MTA’s Public Art Program
Abstract Futures is part of the MTA’s extensive public art program, which has transformed New York’s transit spaces into immersive art environments. Since 1985, the MTA has integrated over 400 permanent artworks into subway and commuter rail stations. This initiative aims to create meaningful connections within the city’s transit system, enriching each commuter’s journey. The MTA’s commitment to public art reflects a broader cultural movement that recognizes the importance of art in everyday spaces.
Reception and Impact
The unveiling of Abstract Futures has been met with enthusiasm from the art community and the public. Critics have praised the mural for its vibrant colours and symbolic depth, noting how it brings a touch of the metaphysical into the everyday experience of commuting. The installation is expected to become a focal point for both art enthusiasts and daily travellers, sparking conversations about the intersection of art, spirituality, and public space.
Looking Ahead
As New York continues to evolve, the integration of art into public spaces like the subway system plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s cultural landscape. Abstract Futures stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of Hilma af Klint’s work and the MTA’s dedication to fostering artistic expression within the urban environment. With its vibrant colours and spiritual undertones, the mural invites all who pass through Grand Central Station to pause, reflect, and experience a moment of artistic transcendence amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.
For those interested in experiencing Abstract Futures, the mural will be located near the 42nd Street/3rd Avenue subway entrance at Grand Central Station. The MTA encourages commuters and visitors alike to take a moment to engage with this new addition to the city’s rich tapestry of public art.
