Times Square's Valentine Heart Has a Harbor Future
At a Glance
- What
Love Ever After, Pernilla Ohrstedt Studio
- When
- February 4-March 4, 2025
- Where
Duffy Square, Times Square
- Experience
A public geometric heart made from oyster cages.
- Coverage
- Explore coverage
- Details
- What to Know
TheNakedNYC coverage
TheNakedNYC documented the sculpture's layered mesh, changing color, and Times Square setting.
What to Know
A Heart Made From Metal Mesh
Billion Oyster Project identifies 48 cages in the 50-square-foot sculpture, with another shell-filled cage beside it. Overlapping grids change the apparent shape, density, and color as visitors move around the work.
Reuse as Part of the Commission
After the display, the components were intended for oyster reefs and research stations. Oysters can filter water and create habitat, while reef structures can help protect shorelines. The planned reuse gives the installation a life beyond its plaza appearance.
The Winning Proposal
Times Square Arts selected the work for its 17th Love & Design Competition. The 2025 brief emphasized recyclable and reusable materials and the full life cycle of a temporary installation.
The Team Behind the Work
Pernilla Ohrstedt Studio worked with material adviser Salem van der Swaagh, lighting designer Sofie Bjärnram Nilsson, fabricator Heini, engineer Walter Woodington, kt.COLOR, and Lucifer Lighting.
A Setting for Valentine's Day
The work was scheduled to accompany February 14 weddings, proposals, and vow renewals. Times Square Arts records the annual program.
