Long Island City Partnership Unveils Lumina Arcana to Illuminate Vernon Boulevard
NYC SBS-Supported Neon Art by Kenny Greenberg Aims to Attract Visitors and Boost Local Commerce
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sierra Brown | sbrown@licpartnership.org | (718) 705-9941
Long Island City, New York (June 24, 2024) – Long Island City Partnership (LICP) is proud to announce the launch of "Lumina Arcana," a public art installation designed to illuminate and revitalize Vernon Boulevard. This innovative project, spearheaded by renowned LIC-based neon light artist Kenny Greenberg of Krypton Neon, aims to bring light to underutilized public spaces and attract visitors to support local businesses along one of Long Island City’s major thoroughfares. To celebrate the launch and honor Pride Month, both locations will be lit up in rainbow neon lights. The project will commence with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and Pride event at Vernon Mall and Gordon Triangle on Thursday, June 27 at 11:00 a.m.
“We are excited to unveil Lumina Arcana, a project that not only adds a stunning artistic element to our community but also brightens up Vernon Boulevard, making it a more inviting space for everyone,” said Laura Rothrock, president, Long Island City Partnership. “By illuminating Vernon Boulevard, we’re enhancing the nighttime atmosphere, attracting visitors, and supporting our local businesses. This installation represents the collaborative spirit of LIC and our commitment to creating an interactive environment for residents and visitors alike.”
“Lumina Arcana reflects the city’s renewed commitment to supporting the creation dynamic, engaging public spaces that enhance the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit Long Island City,” said the city’s Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “This installation not only brightens Vernon Boulevard but also showcases the power of community collaboration and the transformative potential of public art.”
Lumina Arcana features two pergolas constructed from wooden materials and metal railings, adorned with vibrant neon lighting. Each pergola measures approximately 7 feet wide, 10 feet long, and 10 feet high. These installations will be strategically placed at Vernon Mall and Gordon Triangle, transforming these under-lit areas into lively, inviting spaces. The project aims to enhance the visibility and allure of Vernon Boulevard, particularly at night, encouraging increased foot traffic and patronage of the small businesses along the corridor.
LIC-based artist and fabricator Kenny Greenberg, owner of Krypton Neon, who is also a member of Queens Community Board 2, played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life. Throughout the one-year installation period, the neon lights will change color sequences to celebrate specific holidays, events, and occasions. The lights will operate on a timer, illuminating the spaces from 5 p.m. until morning, ensuring a consistent and welcoming glow.
"I am honored to contribute to the evolving atmosphere of my neighborhood with Lumina Arcana," said Kenny Greenberg, who has operated his business in LIC since 1981 and lived in the neighborhood since 1988. "Having witnessed its remarkable transformations over the years, I believe this project is a testament to the power of art and light in transforming public spaces and fostering community engagement."
Lumina Arcana is funded through the competitive New York City Department of Small Business Services (NYC SBS) Commercial Lighting Grant, receiving $100,000 to improve lighting conditions on commercial corridors. This project exemplifies the grant's mission to enhance urban spaces through creative lighting solutions. NYC SBS also managed the grant process and provided oversight, ensuring the project's success.
"SBS is proud to support Lumina Arcana, a project that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of Vernon Boulevard but also promotes economic vitality in the area," said SBS Commissioner Kevin Kim. "This initiative is a shining example of how public art can invigorate communities and support local businesses."
Additional collaborators for this project include NYC Parks, New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), and ConEdison, who provided essential permits and support for the installation. Plaxall generously donated space for the fabrication of the pergolas, and Boyce contributed the art signage for both locations.
"We are delighted to be part of a project that brings such a positive impact to our community," said Paula Kirby, managing director, Plaxall. "Lumina Arcana beautifully illustrates how collaboration can lead to innovative and beneficial outcomes for all."
"This project reflects our commitment to supporting community initiatives," said Richard David, director, Queens Regional & Community Affairs, Con Edison. "We are proud to be a part of Lumina Arcana and look forward to seeing its impact on Vernon Boulevard."
"We are proud to support Lumina Arcana and its mission to enliven Vernon Boulevard," said Charles Boyce, president, Boyce Technologies. "Projects like this are essential in creating a more engaging and attractive environment for everyone."
"NYC Parks is pleased to support the Lumina Arcana project, which brings vibrant, artistic lighting to Vernon Boulevard,” said Elizabeth Masella, senior public art coordinator, NYC Parks. “Public spaces are the heart of our neighborhoods, and projects like this not only beautify our streets but also create safer, more inviting environments for all to enjoy."
The launch event will feature drag story time with renowned drag performer Malai. Attendees are encouraged to dine at nearby Safir Mediterranean, an LGBTQ+ owned business located at 47-31 Vernon Blvd., which will offer a 20% discount to all lunch patrons.
For more information about Lumina Arcana, please contact Sierra Brown at sbrown@licpartnership.org.
About Long Island City Partnership:
Long Island City Partnership (LICP) is the Local Development Corporation (LDC) for Long Island City (LIC), Queens. LICP champions economic development efforts that benefit the neighborhood at large, along with its members, composed of businesses and organizations reflective of LIC’s industrial, commercial, retail, science and technology, residential, cultural and tourism sectors. LICP works to attract new businesses to LIC, retain those already here, engage residents and visitors, and promote a vibrant and authentic mixed-use community. LICP also manages the LIC Business Improvement District (LIC BID) and LIC Industrial Business Zone (LIC IBZ), providing business services and assistance.