a project of site-specific works presented in conjunction with Conflux 2008, the art and technology festival for the creative exploration of urban public space

beginning September 10, 2008
at sites around New York City

created by
Heather L. Johnson and
Eleanor Eichenbaum Eubanks

The Pickup is an ongoing project that subtly injects private, everyday experience into the public realm of the urban landscape. Through it we seek to reveal hidden histories of New York City's buildings, sidewalks, subways and parks through delicate, text-based works placed in such a way as to create a kind of literal subtext, visible only upon second glance.

Brief personal narratives of those who have lived, worked, or traveled in New York City are being collected, edited to one or two enigmatic sentences, and hand-embroidered to vintage handkerchiefs. Each handkerchief is dropped at the location where the event it describes took place, and left there for anyone passing by to encounter, ponder, and keep.

The pickup is inspired by the process of discovery and the human need for interconnection. The project's title references the antiquated custom of dropping a handkerchief in the hope of an introduction to follow. In the moment a person picks up one of these objects, perhaps thinking it is trash, perhaps thinking it is pretty, a strange lens is created through which contrasting times and experiences are connected.

This web site features maps, photographs and other clues to assist those interested in tracking down the embroidered stories. To search for the handkerchiefs, visit the project home page, and click on the links visible as you move your mouse over the drawing of New York City. Follow the links to view images of handkerchiefs and their locations, along with complete narratives from which embroidered versions were taken. If you have questions, email us at thepickup@cracksinthepavement.com.

When searching, keep in mind that each handkerchief has been placed in the public realm and is therefore subject to the forces of nature and other people. Please don't be too disappointed if the piece you are looking for is no longer there! New pieces will be added, so check the web site periodically for new work. Remember, a large part of the pleasure of this project exists in the act of searching itself...good luck!