United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) announced on October 27, 2023, they would be reverting back to 180-day automatic extensions of employment authorization and EAD validity for those eligible applicants who timely file a Form I-765 renewal application on or after October 27, 2023. This announcement follows a Temporary Final Rule (“TRF”) adopted by USCIS from May 4, 2022, through October 26, 2023, which increased the automatic extension period for employment authorization and Employment Authorization Documents (“EADs”) available to certain EAD renewal applicants up to 540-days. Please note that this change to automatic 180-day renewals does not affect beneficiaries who were granted automatic extensions of up to 540-days during the time the TRF was in effect. For beneficiaries of the 540-day extension, the increased automatic extension “will end when they receive a final decision on their renewal application or when the up to 540-day period expires (counted from the expiration date of the employment authorization and/or their EAD), whichever comes earlier.”
Read moreThe Immigrant Instinct
“Parabolic Light” by Fred Eversley
At the Fifth Avenue entrance to Central Park, sits a beguiling sculpture curated by The Public Art Fund, called “Parabolic Light.” Created by the Brooklyn-born artist, Fred Eversley, this sculpture weaves together the elegance of geometry and the play of light.
Hailed by the The New York Times as “[T]he artist who throws Newton a curve” Fred Eversley’s fascination with light finds its origins in his scientific background as an aerospace engineer, a foundation that not only informs but also propels his extraordinary artistry. A True trailblazer in the world of the Light and Space art movement, Mr. Eversley delves into the mesmerizing interplay between light, color, and space, pushing the boundaries of our perceptions and beckoning us to marvel at the profound beauty that surrounds us.
“Parabolic Light” was intended for outdoor exhibition, its substantial size and vibrant magenta color create a striking juxtaposition with the natural landscape. The sculpture itself conceals an optical illusion, inspiring many viewers to capture distorted images through its captivating form, as exemplified in the last slide featuring our own blog photographer!
A Twist of Fate
Fashion Institute of Technology Presents "Chalk FIT"
Fashion Institute of Technology (“FIT”) Senior Illustration students are currently showcasing their talents along the walls of the FIT building along 7th Ave between 27th and 28th Streets. In tune with the 10th anniversary of “Chalk FIT” this year’s theme is "celebration."
The exhibit beautifully captures what “celebration” means to the students, revealing the variety of their thoughts and interpretations. A lot of the beautifully detailed artwork seems to draw inspiration from the diverse multicultural backgrounds of the artists themselves.
Lucky for us, many of these artists have thoughtfully included their Instagram handles and contact details above their work, providing an easy way for art enthusiasts like us to follow along their captivating artistic journeys! We are so fortunate to call such a highly esteemed and creative institution, FIT, our neighbors.
Let Us Not Forget
"The Book of HOV: A Celebration of the Life and Work of Shawn 'JAY-Z' Carter" Created by Roc Nation
In honor of hip hop's 50th anniversary, we enjoyed a visit to the captivating "The Book of HOV: A Celebration of the Life and Work of Shawn 'JAY-Z' Carter" at the Brooklyn Public Library. Described as the "undisputed champion of hip-hop", the Roc Nation created installation pays heartfelt tribute to Jay-Z's monumental genre influence through unreleased images, art pieces, awards, and personal artifacts.
Read moreMother Knows Best
"Our Herd of Hope" Presented by Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
During a weekend stroll in London, we experience déjà vu when we came across lifelike bronze statues of elephants gracefully adorning Spitalfields Market. They reminded us of the herd in Berkeley Square. But these magnificent sculptures are the creation of Gillie and Marc, celebrated for promoting love, equality, and conservation worldwide.
This artistic exhibit, titled "Our Herd of Hope," is inspiring in that it serves a vital purpose - to generate support and awareness for the conservation of elephant species. Each smaller sculpture symbolizes a real elephant herd, emphasizing the importance of their protection. Partnering with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, this installation plans to migrate to various locations across London, making a powerful impact on its journey. We will be following along!
