The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) removed 18 of artist Constintino Nivola’s horse sculptures from the plaza at the Wise Towers. In 1964, the Upper West Side complex became home to these kid-friendly works by Nivola, who advocated for art in public housing projects. NYCHA says the move is temporary and that the horses will return and be showcased as part of another project at the complex, but first they will be restored. “We are committed to working with the community, the development company and outside partners to ensure the restoration and preservation of the art,” says Barbara Brancaccio, a representative of NYCHA. In Italy, Nivola’s birthplace, president of the regional council, Michele Pais, requested the sculptures be returned for restoration in Sardinia.

“Modernist Horse Sculptures Removed by City Housing Agency,” New York Times, March 17, 2021.