Data Vandals Newsstand
As part of the MTA’s Vacant Unit Activation Program, the Data Vandals will create a data-art kiosk and conversation space on the downtown 6-train platform at 51st & Lexington. When the space is open, it will be a place for conversation, with weekly surveys, changing exhibitions, in-person events, talks, music, and a free newspaper. Through weekly sticker votes, charts, maps, and quirky drawings riders can share their experiences with others, opening lines of communication and dialogue.
When closed, the outside wall of the newsstand will be wrapped in vivid graphics, detailing historical moments from New York’s history and showcasing data and facts that can be enjoyed by the average strap hanger.
In 2019, this station had 18.9 million passengers, making it the 10th-busiest station in the subway system. This translates to an average of 52,000 passengers per day. Since our work would be public inside the subway, it is completely accessible.