Postmodern Wreaths? Only In New York

CENTRAL PARK, NY – The annual "Wreath Interpretations" exhibition, one of the city's most appealing esoteric holiday events, is set to return to the Arsenal Gallery in Central Park this week.

Organized by NYC Parks Art & Antiquities and running from Dec. 5, 2024, through Jan. 2, 2025, "Wreath Interpretations" will feature more than 30 wreaths re-imagined using unconventional materials and themes.

Now in its 42nd year, the annual exhibit has been a holiday favorite since 1982, drawing visitors curious to see how artists redefine the classic holiday wreath, a ring-shaped decoration typically constructed from evergreen foliage, berries, pine cones, and more. Don't forget the fake birds.

This year's display includes works crafted from aluminum, brass, and copper, as well as everyday objects like alarm clocks, paintbrushes, confetti, and money. Each piece reflects diverse themes, from cultural heritage and postmodernism (why not?), to NYC Parks' lifeguard recruitment campaign and the pharmaceutical industry.

What do they look like? Revisit the 2022 exhibition here.

The Arsenal Gallery, which plays host to the wreaths, is located in Central Park on the third floor of the Arsenal building at Fifth Avenue and East 64th Street. "Wreath Interpretations" is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

More information is available here.