POEMobile

About

In collaboration with the POEMobile and a variety of non-profit partners (Urban Word, City Lore, Bowery Arts + Science), NBNY pairs text projections with live poetry performances in celebration of diverse, multi-lingual literary traditions. As the poets read their work, the written text scrolls down the side of the building–keeping time with the spoken words and displaying the poem’s original language alongside synchronized projections of an English translation. Bringing together a variety of audiences and cultural traditions, the beauty of the written word illuminates neighborhood facades and provides a unique connection between historic architecture, oral tradition, and technical innovation.

The arts-based education initiative “Words on Walls” lead by Urban Word extends the mission of this poetry and performance partnership and encourages participation in projection arts among traditionally under-served youth (ages 13-19). Highlighting critical concepts in literature and technology, our workshops culminate in public performances of original poetry, accompanied by large-scale text projections designed by the students. Words on Walls empowers a young generation to re-envision their surroundings and powerfully communicate through poetry and projection.