The Broken Kilometer
A minimalist masterpiece by Walter De Maria, featuring 1600 brass rods that subtly transform over time through oxidation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
The Broken Kilometer
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A minimalist masterpiece by Walter De Maria, featuring 1600 brass rods that subtly transform over time through oxidation.
"It's beautiful and mysterious, quiet and quite brilliant."
Check Hours Before You Go
Hours can be unpredictable. Always verify opening times online before making the trip. :clock1:
Embrace the Stillness
This is a place for quiet contemplation. Photography is not permitted, encouraging a social media-free experience. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Brass Rods
Main installation space
1600 precisely cut brass rods, meticulously arranged. Witness their subtle oxidation over years.
The Oxidation Process
Main installation space
Observe the gradual change in the brass's patina, a testament to time and NYC's environment.
The Caretaker's Insights
Main installation space
Engage with the knowledgeable caretaker for a deeper understanding of the artwork's creation and maintenance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Slow Art Experience
Plan Around Quirky Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Recommendation for art places in New York city
Check Hours Before You Go
Hours can be unpredictable. Always verify opening times online before making the trip. :clock1:
Embrace the Stillness
This is a place for quiet contemplation. Photography is not permitted, encouraging a social media-free experience. :camerawithflash:
Talk to the Caretaker
The staff is very knowledgeable and happy to share details about the artwork's history and maintenance. :man_teacher:
Visit with an Open Mind
Appreciate the subtle beauty and concept. It's not for everyone, but deeply rewarding for those who connect with it. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Hours Before You Go
Hours can be unpredictable. Always verify opening times online before making the trip. :clock1:
Embrace the Stillness
This is a place for quiet contemplation. Photography is not permitted, encouraging a social media-free experience. :camerawithflash:
Talk to the Caretaker
The staff is very knowledgeable and happy to share details about the artwork's history and maintenance. :man_teacher:
Visit with an Open Mind
Appreciate the subtle beauty and concept. It's not for everyone, but deeply rewarding for those who connect with it. :sparkles:
Combine with Earth Room
Consider visiting Walter De Maria's 'Earth Room' nearby for a double dose of his unique installations. :earth_americas:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Broken Kilometer for its unique, contemplative nature and the subtle beauty of the oxidizing brass rods. The free entry and knowledgeable staff are also highlighted as positives. Some find the static nature and 'quirky' hours challenging, suggesting it's best for those with an open mind towards conceptual art.
"One of the most moving works of art that never moves except when the brass rods are polished every two years. I recommend visiting several times over the course of two years so that you can see how the installation changes as the brass oxidizes from the harsh NYC environment. It's beautiful and mysterious, quiet and quite brilliant."
Faran Riley Peterson
"One of the best non-commercial museum spaces in NYC of postwar art. Very friendly staff who will answer questions. Photography not permitted — social media free space. Free entry."
Stefan Hildebrandt
"The caretaker is very knowledgeable and is prepare to answer all your questions. You can learn a lot about how their price was made and maintained."
Stanley Gagner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Broken Kilometer is located in Soho, New York City. The closest subway stations are Prince Street (N, R, W trains) and Spring Street (A, C, E trains). From there, it's a short walk. Check a map app for the most direct route from your starting point.
Yes, it is easily accessible by subway. Several lines stop within walking distance, making it convenient to reach via public transport.
Street parking in Soho can be very challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service to reach the venue.
Use a reliable map application on your smartphone and search for 'The Broken Kilometer' or its address. It's a distinct space, so navigation should be straightforward.
The Broken Kilometer is situated in the heart of Soho, an area known for its art galleries and boutiques. It's a distinct art space, so look for its specific entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to The Broken Kilometer is completely free. This makes it a wonderful, accessible art experience for everyone.
The opening hours for The Broken Kilometer are often described as 'quirky' and can vary. It's essential to check their official schedule or reliable listings before your visit.
Weekend hours can be limited or different from weekdays. Always confirm the specific hours for the day you plan to visit.
Since it's a static installation, any time during its open hours is suitable. However, visiting during less busy periods might offer a more contemplative experience.
A visit can be as short as 15 minutes or longer if you wish to spend time contemplating the piece. It's a space designed for reflection.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside The Broken Kilometer. This is to encourage visitors to engage with the art directly and without distraction.
The rule against photography is intended to create a 'social media-free space,' allowing for a more personal and immersive experience with the artwork.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to respect the spirit of the 'no photography' rule and refrain from taking pictures of the exterior as well, especially if it could be seen as capturing the essence of the installation.
There are typically no exceptions to the photography rule. It's a core aspect of the experience designed by the artist.
Focus on experiencing the artwork with your senses and mind. You can sketch in a notebook if you wish, or simply absorb the visual and conceptual elements.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The Broken Kilometer is an art installation by Walter De Maria, featuring 1600 precisely cut brass rods arranged in a grid. It's known for its minimalist aesthetic and the subtle changes it undergoes due to oxidation.
Its uniqueness lies in its static nature yet dynamic evolution. The slow oxidation of the brass rods over years creates a subtle, ongoing transformation that visitors can observe.
It is generally advised not to touch the brass rods to preserve their condition and the artist's intent. The caretaker can provide guidance on this.
The caretaker is knowledgeable about the artwork and its history. They are available to answer visitor questions and ensure the installation is maintained.
If you approach it with an open mind and appreciate minimalist spectacle, it can be very impressive. It's a space that encourages thought and personal interpretation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Art Enthusiasts & Conceptual Art Lovers
Be prepared for a contemplative experience. The prohibition of photography encourages a deep dive into the artwork itself, allowing for personal reflection on themes of time, change, and the environment. Engaging with the knowledgeable caretaker can significantly enrich your understanding and appreciation of the piece.
Visitors Seeking Unique NYC Experiences
Combine your visit with a trip to Walter De Maria's 'Earth Room' nearby for a double dose of his distinctive installations. Remember to check the 'quirky' opening hours beforehand to make the most of your visit. It’s a free, thought-provoking stop that offers a different perspective on art and urban life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Walter De Maria's Vision
The power of The Broken Kilometer lies not in dramatic movement, but in its subtle, ongoing transformation. The brass, exposed to the New York City environment, undergoes a slow process of oxidation. This gradual change in patina, from bright gold to a deeper, more muted hue over years, is central to the artwork's concept. It invites viewers to consider the passage of time and the impact of the environment on materials.
Visitors are encouraged to approach the installation with patience and an open mind. The experience is designed to be contemplative, a stark contrast to the often fast-paced nature of the city outside. The absence of photography further emphasizes this focus on direct, unmediated engagement with the art.
The Art of Observation and Patience
Many visitors find the experience profoundly peaceful and thought-provoking. The sheer precision of the arrangement, combined with the slow decay of the brass, creates a unique atmosphere. It’s a space that encourages introspection, allowing the mind to wander and process the subtle visual cues. The caretaker's presence often enhances this, providing context and answering questions that deepen one's appreciation for the work's conceptual underpinnings.
This installation is a testament to the idea that art can be found not just in grand gestures, but in the quiet, persistent processes of nature and time. It’s a reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty in gradual evolution, a concept that resonates deeply in a city known for its constant flux.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit