Niki de Saint Phalle Sculptures on Park Avenue

Hey New Yorkers, wake up & notice the colorful & jubilant sculptures on Park Ave from 60th to 52nd by the French artist, Niki de St. Phalle. St. Phalle  was born in Fance to a French father & American mother in 1930.  As a teenager, St. Phalle graced the covers of French Vogue & Life.  While modeling in Paris, she took up painting.  Although she was self-taught, her work drew the attention of American painter Hugh Weiss.  He became her mentor and encouraged her to pursue her art.  During her years in Spain, she discovered the sculptures of Antonio Gandis which greatly influenced her to construct sculptures blending both artisitic and natural materials.   Her modeling career gave focus to the female form and she is best known for her enlarged female forms with minimized, featureless faces.  Her sculptures are enjoyed for their whimsy, sparkle and colorful  mosaics.  On the Avenue, check out the Michael Jordan and Louis Armstrong tributes. Before St. Phalle passed away in '02, she established herself as a painter, sculptor and filmmaker.  Some of St. Phalle's most glorious and magical statues are on display outdoors where they shimmer and glow - so GO!  As Barbara Walters says, "Don't forget to take time to enjoy the view."  And I say, free is free and the price is right!  Just take a little while, I  guarantee a smile or your $ back.