Tobias Purtrih, Blackwell, 2012, c-print and powder-coated aluminum, PS 182, Queens

Blackwell is a permanent installation created by artist Tobias Putrih for PS 182 Queens. The artwork began with photographs Putrih took during morning walks in New York City parks in winter. He was inspired by one particular photograph of leafless tree branches against a blue sky. He began to see the branches as roads and rivers and decided to transform the image into a map. Using digital software, he added new forms, lines and structures to the image. Other artists were invited via the internet to contribute as well, by editing and adding new details. Blackwell is the name Putrih gave the imaginary place that evolved. He took these cumulative interventions and created the large-scale photograph that now hangs just outside the auditorium entrance. 

The black panels, located throughout the building, are laser-cut aluminum details taken from this “master” photograph. They are hung in unexpected places in the school including stairwells, the library and cafeteria. The installation of the panels high up near the ceiling encourages the viewer to gaze upward, as Putrih did when taking the original photograph. Though they are part of the “master” image, the panels are each their own work, presenting unique landscapes, maps, and stories.