Abandoned Macy's in Brooklyn Glows as an Interactive Light Art Spectacle
A former Macy's store in Downtown Brooklyn has been transformed into a striking art installation. The building, which closed last year, now features a dynamic light display designed to draw visitors during the colder months. The project aims to boost foot traffic for nearby restaurants and bars.
The installation, titled Forever, was unveiled on October 12, 2023, inside the old Macy's space—now part of City Point. Instead of traditional holiday decorations, it uses kaleidoscopic light panels that shift in response to sounds recorded on Fulton Street. Everyday noises from the area trigger geometric patterns, creating a constantly evolving visual experience.
The light display plays across glass panels arranged as windows-within-windows, set behind the same glass that once showcased mannequins and merchandise. Boston-based sound and installation artist Ryan Edwards, known professionally as Hutch, designed the piece. His work was funded by a $90,000 city grant, along with an additional $5,000 from the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership.
The project repurposes the empty retail space with an interactive twist. Rather than relying on festive imagery like Santas or reindeer, it turns the building's façade into a living reflection of the street's energy.
The installation will remain on view throughout the winter, offering a free attraction for locals and visitors. By blending sound and light, it turns a vacant storefront into a vibrant public art piece. The hope is that the display will bring more people to the area, supporting nearby businesses during the quieter season.
