Chalk shadow outlines from NYT

Chalk shadow outlines from NYT
Originally uploaded by ideateller.

It began this spring without explanation: fire hydrants, street signs and bicycles all over Park Slope and Carroll Gardens in Brooklyn were suddenly standing watch over their own distorted chalk outlines, as if anticipating some violent demise. Whoever did this left no clue other than an ambiguous signature: "© Ellis G. 2007," scrawled next to the chalk etchings.



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Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Ellis Gallagher traces the shadow of a bicycle.



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Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Ellis Gallagher tracing shadows of objects on sidewalks in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, including a trash basket.



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Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Ellis Gallagher drawing the shadow of a stop sign and explaining what he is doing to a young admirer.



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Chang W. Lee /The New York Times

Ellis Gallagher traces an outline of light shining through a window.



During daylight, the outlines did not make much sense. Shopkeepers and bar owners had little information. Deliverymen muttered to themselves as they moved their outlined bicycles indoors. Parents were just as confused as their young children.



But under the orange glow of the streetlights, the intent became clear: the outlines are shadows, burned into the sidewalk.