LOCATION
The 300+ pound soccer ball titled “It Found Its Way In” is inspired by Cruz’s past work, which is currently on display at the Kraupa-Tuskany Zeidler, a contemporary art gallery in Berlin. Cruz was selected to design a soccer ball sculpture as part of Jersey City’s Arts 14c campaign, “The Art of the Game,” which features 23 soccer ball figure installations designed by 23 artists, each representing a FIFA World Cup game.
DESIGN
Cruz’s design features two panels of black, white, and gray abstract brush strokes, surrounded by hexagonal and pentagonal shapes that connect through a metal and stainless-steel interior, and is collapsible for transport. Cruz’s work conveys stories of evolution, often featuring animals, figures, and architecture, making it easily recognizable.
Taína’s soccer ball was installed on the deck of The Yard in New Brunswick just in time for the FIFA World Cup season opener, Mexico vs. South Africa, during which it held a Watch Party for the community. On June 16, just a few miles away at Liberty Square Park, another watch party was held, this time for France vs. Senegal, which the Heldrich Hotel & Conference Center hosted to honor the Senegal soccer team for choosing New Brunswick as its base during the FIFA season. Part of the grounds at Liberty Square Park was temporarily transformed into a mini soccer field, with nets and balls provided by a local vendor, featuring a portable obstacle course. RWJBarnabas Health, along with Saint Peter’s Hospital, served as sponsors.
WHAT’S NEXT?
The figure’s next stop will be Liberty Square Park; thereafter, it will be permanently featured in a nearby art gallery in New Brunswick. The remaining figures will be auctioned, with proceeds divided among the artist, ARTS 14C, and Studio in a School, New York.
Co-founder of the New Brunswick Jazz Project, Michael Tublin, and Director of Human and Community Services at City of New Brunswick, Keith Jones II, were vital in ensuring the piece had a spot to shine.
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