Reach is an interactive urban art exhibit from sound designer Christopher Janney that plays pre-recorded sounds when sensors detect movement.
Installed the Herald Square Subway Station in 1995, the art looks like part of the station infrastructure and goes by unnoticed by many.
As waiting pedestrians reach up and wave their hands in front of one of the eight “eyes,” a beam of light is interrupted. This activates REACH, which emits a range of sounds—from melodic instruments (marimba, flute) to environmental “sound images” (Everglades, rain forest). The piece is installed on both the uptown and downtown platforms of the 34th Street N/R subway station in New York City. Riders often play REACH with other passengers across the tracks.
Commuters still interact with Reach even on today's phone-filled subway platform.
Matt Coneybeare
Editor in Chief
Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.
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