Underground Social Spaces

During my last year at NYU, I studied how subway stations act as social spaces in NYC and the importance of musicians in them. Moreover, I questioned if these performances present a possibility of democratizing culture in the city.

Part I: Underground Social Spaces

Understanding How Subway Stations Act as Public Space in NYC

The paper analyzes the different elements that allow for social interactions in subway stations in New York City. First, by examining its designated use; exploring how public spaces are conceived, what rules and regulations apply, and where do subway stations fall amongst them. Second, it discusses how the build environment contributes or restricts different behaviors and interactions in the space. Third, analyzes the actual uses people give to transit facilities, using 14th Street Union Square as a case study. The paper concludes by addressing challenges and possibilities of amplifying the use of subway stations as public space in New York City. 

Part II: Underground Music. Bottom-up Culture for NYC

Understanding the Value of Music Performances in Subway Stations

Can subway performances help democratize the arts by bringing culture to under-served communities? Where are musicians playing and who are they reaching? What are the current regulations that restrict or permit their contributions?

By comparing the cultural offer in New York City with the subway population, in addition to analyzing locations, ridership and current regulations, this paper presents a first approach in understanding subway musician’s contributions to culture in New York City.

Download the research paper here.