Tunnel of Thousands of Reflective Balloons on View at NYC’s Lincoln Center Until Sunday

Part of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the David H. Koch Theater is home to some of New York City’s most established dance and opera companies. But beyond the world-renowned performances that take place there, the theater also presents stunning works of public art. The latest installation, on view until February 25, is New York and Los Angeles-based artist Jihan Zencirli Geronimo’s 5 Domes, a shimmering balloon installation, produced in collaboration with the New York City Ballet.

Part of NYCB’s annual Art Series, which invites contemporary artists to install site-specific artworks at Lincoln Center, 5 Domes is comprised of tens of thousands of reflective mylar balloons. Zencirli (@geronimo on Instagram), who has been called a “balloon genius,” is known for her large-scale installations around the world. Her organically-inspired configurations contrast the sharp geometrics of the buildings the pieces are usually displayed in or next to. According to ABC7, Zencirli says her art is meant to reflect the passage of time as it alters with the elements.

The transitory theme of her work is clearly demonstrated in the Lincoln Center display as the installation was initially built out of colorful balloons. They’ve since been replaced with thousands of silver balloons, arranged into a tunnel. Additionally, 5 Domes was inspired by the diamond lights outside of the theater itself, meant to evoke a magical, “childlike feeling.” As such, visitors can walk through the whimsical arch and touch the balloons as they pass under.

Catch 5 Domes until February 25 during free public viewing hours (Monday to Friday from 10am to 6pm; Saturday to Sunday from 10am to 12pm). For more information, visit the NYCB website.

Next, check out 19 Not to Miss Installations and Art Exhibits in February.