Holly Crawford
Essence of the Rock
2013
mixed medium
dimensions variable
Geological find of the century has been uncovered. Rare stalactites and stalagmites discovered in the lower levels of Rockefeller Center. Over many years of drip, drip, drip, very tiny fragments of many things have filtered down through the cracks and spaces. Small stalactites and stalagmites are not unusual in urban underground spaces. You can see small ones in the subway near Rockefeller Center. It is reported in Wikipedia, that stalactites and stalagmites can also form on concrete ceilings and floors and they form very rapidly.
Analysis has identified: aspirins, heartburn medicine, antidepressants, cocaine, money, alcohol, coffee grounds, condoms, hairpins, wires, carpet tacks, stamps, electronics, plastic, pencils, pens, Christmas ornaments and lights, tickets, buttons, wax, corks, cigarettes, unspecified metal and concrete fragments and many fragments of documents. Of course, they are the tiniest fragments, but the most amazing geological formations. What comes through all the layers… the history, the pure essence of the Rock is in those forms.
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The stalagmites and stalactites will only be on display for two weeks. Even though they are amazing finds and only recently revealed to the press, but economics mandates its removal now. Ground floor spaces at Rockefeller Center are some of the most expensive in NYC. Offers have been made of the space. At this time rumor has it that it is new location for flexible shared office space, fast food restaurant, a souvenir shop, or sock boutique. Management did not want to discuss their negotiations. Discussions are under way with the Natural History Museum and the City of NYC for display of the stalactites and stalagmites. They maybe too delicate to remove without destroying it, it seems very site specific. There is nothing more to report at this time.
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Engineer's Office Gallery 
Wonderful work.