LifeCycle Rides are monthly excursions around New York and beyond. This month found us venturing to Queens, New York to visit the Socrates Sculpture Park.
The Socrates Sculpture Park was founded in 1986 by a group of community members and artists. With a mission "based on the belief that reclamation, revitalization and creative expression are essential to the survival, humanity and improvement of our urban environment," they broke ground and created a home for artists, both emerging and veteran, to create and showcase unique, large scale, and sometimes interactive, visions in the New York Metropolitan area.
What was once an abandoned riverside landfill and illegal dumpsite, is now home to an open studio and exhibition space- providing art and amazing views of the Hudson River. A pathway runs the outer perimeter of the park, passing through many of the exhibitions, leading to a farmers market selling seasonal wares. Guests are free to walk among the exhibits, and interact when able. Socrates Sculpture Park encourages strong interaction between the artists, artworks and the public. Current featured artists include Kenseth Armstead, José Carlos Casado, Torkwase Dyson, Carla Edwards, Davey Hawkins, Lena Henke, David Horvitz, Charlotte Hyzy, Melanie McLain, Kirsten Nelson, Freya Powell, Leah Raintree, Charlotte Becket Roger Sayre, Aaron Suggs, Noa Younse, and David Riley.
Trade 2015 by Jose Carlos Casado
We were lucky enough to catch the farmer's market on the last day of the season and after a refreshing snack of crisp apples, we rode back to Prospect Park in Brooklyn to end the day.
Socrates Sculpture Park is open 365 days a year and welcomes dogs- asking they are leashed after 10am.
LifeCycle Rides are open to all that are able and willing to ride. With a ride lead and caboose, we ensure that no one, no matter the pace, is left behind. We encourage cycling enjoyment at all stages and make sure to provide an inclusive environment.
Please check out our community calendar for upcoming LifeCycle Rides events- we hope to see you soon!