As the weather begins to shift and hints of spring bring a renewed sense of optimism, we recently came across the two-part installation “Chasing Rainbows” by UK-based multimedia artist Charlotte Colbert, curated by New Public. Placed across New York’s Flatiron and Meatpacking neighborhoods, the towering sculptures invite passersby to pause amid the city’s constant movement and reconnect with a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world around them. Set in the shadow of the Flatiron Building, “Dreamland Sirens” takes the shape of a watchful eye supported by cascading mirrored tears that reflect the viewer and the surrounding city. With its unmistakable resemblance to the protective evil eye motif found across many cultures, we like to think it might also be quietly keeping watch over all of us. Nearby, “Where Angels Live” appears as a steel tree adorned with talismans and symbols representing meaning across cultures, religions, and personal beliefs. Together, the sculptures evoke protection, reflection, and perhaps a hopeful signal that brighter days lie ahead.

Though the holiday season is over, we are happy to see the light displays continue setting NYC aglow on these short winter days. In downtown New York, visitors can bask in “Winter Glow,” a collection of interactive art installations lighting up Flatiron Plaza . Two exhibitions, “The Diamonds” and “Spectrum,” use movement and light to dazzle spectators. “The Diamonds” by Perséides Studio consist of three colorful structures that light up when they spin, featuring music by Stefie Shock that changes as the speed of rotation varies. Across the plaza is “Spectrum,” by Mirari from QDSinternational, which plays off of communication as it lights up to show sound waves pass through its circles. These interactive exhibitions are perfect for a little light therapy to brighten winter’s gloomy evenings.