Dear readers,

    A series of rainy days finally came to an end with surprisingly great weather. It was just the right amount of sunshine and warmth, making me feel as if our old friend spring had come back for a quick visit on a late October day. Everyone was out and about, including some amazing street artists.

    When I used to hear the term “street artists,” the first thing that would come to mind was a person standing on the curb, acoustic guitar in hand, strumming and singing passionately. After spending some time in New York, I’ve come to realize how much more the term means. Whether it’s on the streets or in a park, above ground or next to subway tracks, you can expect to find a variety of talent and art in the city.

    Although it is true that music is the most common form of street art I’ve come across, I have oftentimes been surprised by the types of music and instruments I hear. In popular subway stations, I’ve come across a Native American band promoting their album with a live flute and vocal performances, a young man rapping rhythmically to the beats of his own deejaying and an old man playing traditional songs on the erhu near Chinatown. I’ve even seen a “piano guy” playing on his grand piano in places such as Washington Square Park. He is often surrounded by an audience, sitting on the benches in the park, who are in turn surrounded by squirrels and greenery within the city. He also has more listeners walking afar — it’s a pleasure for many of us on campus to enjoy the soothing piano music on our way to class.

    While some street arts attract an audience through sound, others seem to emanate a very distinct smell. If you walk around popular tourist attractions, you’ll find, I mean smell, them — spray paint artists.

    The most amusing part is when the artist sprays white paint onto his/her index finger, and flicks the paint onto the paper to create shining stars in the sky. The process seems effortless and is a pleasure to watch. A stunning piece can be completed within a few minutes, but I’m sure it takes much practice beforehand to achieve such precision.

    Some artists attract bigger crowds than others, but it’s always great to see people slow down and take a few minutes to observe or enjoy the street art. The city is bustling day in and day out, and so are the people. Life here can be so fast-paced, with everyone rushing to get on the right train, or get to work or class on time. Sometimes, we could all slow down and see what else the city has to offer, such as the arts and gems on the streets.

    Sincerely,

    Bingyin