A series of 23 large-scale soccer ball sculptures, titled “Art of the Game,” has been installed across New York City and New Jersey. The project, coordinated by the nonprofit ARTS 14C and the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York/New Jersey Host Committee, will remain on public display through Labor Day.
One notable installation, located in front of El Museo del Barrio on Fifth Avenue in East Harlem, was created by artist Ronny Quevedo, who grew up in the Bronx. His sculpture explores the concept of the Earth’s equator as a shifting, renegotiated center. For Quevedo, the work draws on his personal history; his father was a professional soccer player in Ecuador, and the artist views the project as an opportunity to reflect on the movement of migrants and the formation of community.
How the installations were selected
The “Art of the Game” program was developed through a committee assisted by the late arts patron Agnes Gund. To ensure a broad artistic perspective, the heads of New York City’s major museums were tasked with nominating artists to design the sculptures. These pieces are currently positioned at prominent locations throughout the region, including Rockefeller Center, Columbus Circle, and Grand Central Terminal.
What happens after the exhibition ends
While the temporary exhibition concludes on Labor Day, a portion of the collection will become a permanent fixture in the area. According to Diana Burroughs, executive director of ARTS 14C’s artist residency program called Project 14C, the host committee is gifting 12 of the sculptures to New York City and surrounding municipalities to serve as permanent legacy installations. The remaining sculptures are slated to be auctioned by Christie’s. Proceeds from these sales are designated for ARTS 14C, the nonprofit Studio in a School, and the individual artists involved.
Did You Know? The “Art of the Game” sculptures are not merely temporary decorations; 12 of the 23 pieces are intended to remain as permanent legacy gifts to the municipalities of New York and New Jersey following the conclusion of the public exhibition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find these sculptures?
The sculptures are located at various spots across New York City and New Jersey, including Grand Central Terminal, Columbus Circle, Rockefeller Center, and in front of El Museo del Barrio in East Harlem. You can find the specific location nearest to you on the official program website.
How long will the art be on display?
The “Art of the Game” sculptures will remain on public display until Labor Day.
What will happen to the sculptures after the exhibition?
Twelve of the sculptures will be installed permanently in New York and surrounding municipalities as a legacy gift. The remaining pieces will be auctioned by Christie’s, with funds benefiting ARTS 14C, Studio in a School, and the artists.
How does the integration of public art projects like this change your perspective on the upcoming World Cup events in your neighborhood?
Related reading